The Waste Crisis in Connecticut & the Path to Solutions

Wakeman Town Farm

Learn about the current state of waste management in Connecticut  the importance of “Recycling Right". A lecture  by Jennifer Heaton-Jones

Connecticut is facing a growing waste crisis. With the closure of key waste-to-energy facilities and no landfill capacity, the state is increasingly reliant on exporting its trash—an unsustainable and costly practice. This presentation will explore the current state of waste management in Connecticut, including where our trash goes, the environmental and economic impacts of our current system, and why urgent action is needed.A key focus will be on the importance of “Recycling Right”—understanding what belongs in the recycling bin, what doesn’t, and how contamination undermines the entire recycling process. Attendees will learn how small changes in behavior can lead to big improvements in recycling efficiency and environmental outcomes.Beyond recycling, the presentation will highlight innovative and practical solutions to reduce waste generation, improve diversion rates, and build a more resilient and sustainable waste infrastructure for Connecticut. Topics will include food waste diversion, extended producer responsibility (EPR), regional collaboration, and community education.Together, we’ll explore how residents, municipalities, and policymakers can work toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.Jennifer Heaton-JonesExecutive Director, Housatonic Resources Recovery Authority (HRRA)Jennifer Heaton-Jones is a recognized leader in the waste management and environmental sustainability sector, currently serving as the Executive Director of the Housatonic Resources Recovery Authority (HRRA). With over a decade of experience in the waste industry, Jennifer has been instrumental in shaping regional strategies for responsible waste disposal, recycling, and public education across western Connecticut.Under her leadership, HRRA has expanded its outreach and impact, fostering collaborative partnerships among municipalities, businesses, and residents to promote zero waste initiatives and improve compliance with state and federal regulations. Jennifer is known for her pragmatic approach to policy implementation, her commitment to environmental stewardship, and her ability to translate complex waste management challenges into actionable solutions.She frequently speaks at regional and national conferences, sharing insights on topics such as extended producer responsibility (EPR), food waste diversion, and the evolving recycling landscape. Her work continues to influence sustainable waste practices and inspire community-driven change.

The Waste Crisis in Connecticut & the Path to Solutions

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The Waste Crisis in Connecticut & the Path to Solutions

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