EREF Announces 2026 Fundraising Events: EREF Auction and Fall Classic & Networking Event 

RALEIGH, NC — The Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF) is proud to announce two major upcoming opportunities for the waste and recycling industry to engage, network, and support EREF’s mission. 

EREF Auction at the Waste Leadership Summit 

EREF is excited to announce that the 2026 EREF Auction will take place on June 9, 2026, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. EST at the Waste Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. 

For this year’s event, we are introducing a hybrid auction format that will allow for simultaneous online and in-person participation. The auction will take place online through Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, with an in-person component featuring live bidding. 

• Equipment and Truck Auction: The live auction will feature a wide range of equipment and trucks available for purchase or rental. Online bidding will open several days prior to the event and remain open during the live sale, with the auctioneer managing bids in real time. Online bidding for these lots will close upon the completion of the live session. While items will not be on physical display at the venue, EREF will provide comprehensive signage and online materials to ensure accuracy for all bidders. 

• In-Person Executive Outings: Following the equipment and truck portion of the event, the auctioneer will transition to an in-person-only session featuring outings with industry C-suite executives. 

Those interested in donating items for the auction are encouraged to contact events@erefdn.org. Donation opportunities are open to all organizations, offering a flexible format for donors to maximize their visibility through their support of EREF’s mission. The deadline for all auction donations is April 10, 2026.

Please visit erefdn.org/events for the most up-to-date information, including auction donations and registration details as they come available.  

2026 EREF Fall Classic & Networking Event 

Looking toward autumn, EREF is pleased to announce the return of the EREF Fall Classic & Networking Event, scheduled for September 2–3, 2026, at the Eaglewood Resort & Spa in Chicago, Illinois. 

The Fall Classic remains one of EREF’s signature gatherings, designed to foster meaningful networking and charitable engagement among industry leaders. EREF is honored to recognize LRS as the Overall Event Sponsor for the 2026 gathering. 

“We are proud to support the Environmental Research & Education Foundation and their mission to advance scientific research, education, and innovation in sustainable materials management,” said Matt Spencer, CEO of LRS. “EREF’s dedication to driving meaningful progress toward a circular economy aligns deeply with LRS’s values and commitment to environmental stewardship. We’re excited to sponsor this event at Eaglewood Resort and to join industry partners in celebrating our shared commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community.” 

“The EREF Fall Classic & Networking Event is a unique opportunity that brings together waste management leaders together in support of credible, unbiased research and building technical talent in the field,” said Dr. Bryan Staley, President & CEO of EREF. “We are grateful for the continued support of LRS as the Overall Event Sponsor, whose support helps make this event possible and directly empowers EREF’s ability to fund high-impact research and education initiatives.” 

For the latest updates, including information on a new registration format and upcoming sponsorship opportunities, please visit erefdn.org/events or email events@erefdn.org.