UF/IFAS Master Waste Reduction Educator Program

The Master Waste Reduction Educator Program is designed to empower residents to become champions of waste reduction and recycling.

NOTE: Registration for this course is handled by the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Please visit UF/IFAS online for more details and to register.

Master Waste Reduction Educator Program

The Master Waste Reduction Educator Program is a new UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County initiative designed to empower residents and local leaders to become champions of waste reduction practices. Tailored to the unique needs and goals of Sarasota County, participants receive specialized training in waste prevention, composting, recycling, and materials management. Graduates of this program serve as trusted educators and advocates, leading outreach efforts in neighborhoods, schools, and community organizations. By sharing practical strategies to reduce landfill waste and conserve local resources, they help build a healthier, more resilient Sarasota County for future generations.

Taught by UF/IFAS Extension in Sarasota County and led by Randall Penn, Faculty Waste Reduction Agent III, this program builds upon established initiatives such as the Sarasota County Green Business Partnership, county-wide composting and recycling education efforts, and youth education outreach.

Participants engage in a blend of classroom instruction, hands-on workshops, community field trips, and industry expert presentations. With research-based education, practical tools, and ongoing support, graduates earn certification as Master Waste Reduction Educators, and play an active role in their communities by leading local efforts in waste reduction, promoting sustainable behaviors, and contributing directly to Sarasota County’s long-term environmental goals.

Cost for this 6 week course is $195, and enrollment is limited to 12 students. Sign up to be a part of our 1st cohort!

Dates and Times

Six-week course, with classes held 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the following Fridays: March 20 and 27; April 03, 10 and 24; and May 01

Who can join? All Sarasota County residents, educators, and local leaders interested in waste reduction.

What you’ll learn: Waste reduction, composting, recycling, and materials management.

Training format: Classroom instruction, hands-on workshops, and community engagement tours.

Certification: Earn recognition as a Master Waste Reduction Educator.

Community impact: Support outreach, teach best practices, and contribute to local sustainability goals.

Waste Reduction Tours

• Balcones Resources Recycling Center (single-stream recycling)
• Sarasota County Chemical Collection Center (hazardous waste)
• Central County Solid Wste Disposal Complex (landfill and waste to energy)
• UF/IFAS Extension - Twin Lakes facility

Learning Modules

• Making the Case for Waste Reduction
• Recycle Right!
• Let's Make Some Black Gold
• Reducing Plastics

Tuition: $195 per participant. Covers access to online course materials, hands-on workshop supplies, and certification.

What Participants Receive:

Course Materials

Full access to UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County materials via Canvas.

Supplemental resources and guides for practical application.

Hands-On Learning Experiences

Participation in workshops, field demonstrations, and community projects.

Guidance on implementing waste reduction initiatives locally.

Certification and Recognition

Official Master Waste Reduction Educator certificate upon completion.

Recognition on UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension website and social media.

Networking and Support

Connection with a community of waste reduction advocates and volunteers.

Ongoing support from UF/IFAS Extension faculty and staff.

Community Impact Opportunities

Ability to lead workshops, school programs, and local initiatives.

Direct contribution to Sarasota County’s waste reduction goals.

Volunteer Hours Requirement

Graduates commit to 10 volunteer hours per year for a period of 1 year.

Hours may include community outreach, educational workshops, and school programs.

For questions or further information, please call 941-861-5000 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu. If you require special accommodations to attend one of our events, please contact us in advance at 941-861-5000 or sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu.

NOTE: Classes and events may be canceled at any time due to low registration or other circumstances, with full refunds issued for paid events. Similar classes or events often are offered on future dates.

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Type: Take a Class

Topic: Waste

Organization name: UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County