Covanta Thursday announced John G. Waffenschmidt, Vice President of Environmental Science and Community Affairs, has been reappointed to the DEP Environmental Justice Advisory Board.
The EJAB is charged with overseeing the implementation of DEP's Enhanced Public Participation Policy to protect the health of local communities, especially communities with the greatest concentration of environmental risks.
Among the group's objectives is to ensure that the DEP maintains a proactive approach to Environmental Justice within the state, and increase the level of environmental monitoring in low-income and minority communities.
"I'm thrilled to have been reappointed to the EJAB and to continue our work serving the citizens of Pennsylvania," said Waffenschmidt. "At Covanta, we recognize our responsibility to address the concerns of the communities in which we operate and to raise awareness for EJ issues, such as those reviewed in the EJAB."
Covanta's Energy-from-Waste facilities provide a safe and sustainable waste disposal method that is superior to landfills, reduces greenhouse gases and produces clean, renewable energy from solid waste.
The company continues to work to address the needs of communities by maintaining healthy relationships and constructive interaction with community leaders, clients and others interested in facility operations.
Covanta is one of only a few publicly traded companies which have adopted a comprehensive EJ policy.
"We truly value John's tremendous experience and obvious passion for addressing environmental justice issues and encouraging the cooperation of industries and communities," said DEP Secretary E. Christopher Abruzzo. "We look forward to his continued involvement and greatly appreciate his dedicated service to the Commonwealth."
Covanta owns or operates five energy-from-waste facilities in Pennsylvania in Dauphin, Delaware, Lancaster, Montgomery and York counties.
In addition to his work at Covanta, Waffenschmidt also serves the Product Stewardship Institute Advisory Council, the Regional Plan Association, Long Island Chapter, and was a member of the original workgroup that helped establish the PA EJAB.
He also participates in different policy forums and gives lectures related to sustainability. His second consecutive two-year term will extend through 2016.
