In the Room When It Happened: Industry Perspectives on PFAS

Speakers:

• Joe Benco, PE, Director, Engineering, Republic Services
• Samuel Nicolai, PE, Vice President of Engineering & Compliance, Casella Waste Systems
• David Pepper, Vice President, Post Collections for US Solid Waste Operations, GFL Environmental

Moderator: Bryan Staley, PhD, PE, President and CEO, Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF)

In recent years, the effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on human health and the environment have become a topic of concern for both the waste industry and the general public. Significant information exists on the basics of PFAS and their possible health hazards. But what are the implications specifically for the waste industry?

During this session, a panel of solid waste experts will weigh in with their perspectives on PFAS and the challenges faced. This includes perspectives on:

• The waste industry’s role in PFAS management as it relates to health and environmental protection
• The challenges they have faced in the past and where PFAS ranks in severity
• Top concerns related to PFAS and what information is needed to make appropriate decisions
• End points most impacted by PFAS (i.e. recycling, composting, landfill, WTE)
• How waste management companies are dealing with the PFAS issue