Feb 11 - Assembly Member Gordon to Chair New Select Committee on Waste Reduction and Recycling

Assembly Speaker Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) has appointed Assemblyman Rich Gordon (D-Menlo Park) Chair of the newly formed Select Committee on Waste Reduction and Recycling in 21st Century California.

"I am honored to serve as Chair of the Select Committee on Waste Reduction and Recycling in 21st Century California," said Assemblyman Gordon. "This committee will examine waste reduction and recycling programs with the goal of furthering innovative solutions to ensure California continues to remain at the forefront of reducing waste and living sustainably."

"I am proud that California leads the country with an approximate 65 percent diversion rate across all materials, and that our recycling industry supports more than 140,000 green jobs throughout the state," continued Gordon. "With this new select committee, we can identify additional opportunities to expand and improve waste reduction programs in California. As Chair, my primary goal will be to inspire and challenge Californians to achieve the highest waste reduction, recycling, and reuse goals in the nation. Through innovation and creativity, sound advancements in science and technology, and efficient programs that improve economic vitality and environmental sustainability, we can build a stronger California."

Since his election, Assemblyman Gordon has authored five key pieces of legislation pertaining to beverage container and tire recycling programs in California, all of which were signed into law. In 2012, he was named Recycling Legislator of the Year by Californians Against Waste.

"Assemblyman Gordon has been a leader in addressing environmental challenges and seizing opportunities in growing California’s recycling economy," said Mark Murray, Executive Director of Californians Against Waste. "It’s little surprise that Speaker Atkins would entrust him with this responsibility."