Press Release

Waste Management Announces Support of Freecycle™
A Novel Solution to an Environmental Mandate


Antelope Valley, California – May 05, 2005 – As one of the top trash haulers and recyclers in the state, Waste Management is committed to helping local governments meet state mandates to divert at least 50% of all waste from disposal facilities through the three environmental "Rs": Reducing, Reusing, and Recycling.

Recycling messages, geared towards residential and commercial customers and schools have long been a staple of Waste Management's community outreach programs. Faced with the challenge of how best to promote "reuse,” Waste Management took the novel step of partnering with web-based nonprofit organization Freecycle, to promote its efforts to turn unwanted trash into treasures.

Tucson, Arizona-based Freecycle, founded in 2003, unites owners of unwanted objects with others looking to acquire them. No money changes hands, and deals are made through local on-line networks. Everything offered on Freecycle has to be free, legal, and appropriate for all ages. Freecycle groups are monitored, and group members who post inappropriate messages or items are removed from the listserv group.

The relationship with Freecycle involves an outright grant of $130,000, but beyond this, Waste Management's Kent Stoddard, Vice President Public Affairs has asked Waste Management's local Public Service Sector teams to incorporate Freecycle messaging into their community outreach programs. "It is critical that we help our cities and counties increase their diversion rates. Giving objects a second life through Freecycle is convenient, cost-effective and good environmental stewardship."

"We talk a lot about source reduction - 'using a mug instead of a disposable paper cup. This broadens the conversation, and encourages residents and businesses to stop before tossing items that could be put to good use by others," said Chris Fall, Manager of Public Sector Service of Waste Management Antelope Valley. "I have been encouraging my commercial clients to post on Freecycle when they are upgrading their furnishings and equipment, instead of just ordering an extra trash bin. We have also been encouraging charitable groups to 'go shopping' on Freecycle to find items they need. ."

Added Freecycle founder and Executive Director Deron Beal, "I am truly gratified by Waste Management's enthusiasm for the program. Our mission is to reduce waste, save precious resources. , so it is a potent statement when the nation's largest provider of solid waste and recycling services lends its support to our program." More information about Freecycle can be found at freecycle.org.

Waste Management is the industry's leading provider of comprehensive waste management, recycling and environmental protection services. Based in Houston, the Company serves municipal, commercial, industrial, and residential customers throughout North America.


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