The Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF) announces the inception of a new solid waste education series entitled EREF Science Sessions, which will kick off in mid-January. In a time when interactions occur primarily online and Zoom fatigue has become a real concern, the Science Sessions aim to provide the content solid waste professionals need in brief, interactive segments lasting around 45 minutes to an hour.
These sessions will take a variety of forms, forgoing the typical presentation/webinar- style and opting for more interactive models such as interviews, panels and Q&A. The first set of topics centers on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and emerging contaminants. While data and information surrounding the topic abounds, each session aims to bring new content to the table and focus on the role of the waste industry in the PFAS and emerging contaminants conversation.
Currently, 8 sessions have been confirmed with more anticipated to be lined up. Subtopics include:
- Industry perspectives on PFAS management
- PFAS policy
- Management strategies
- PFAS concentrations in domestic wastewater and leachate
- Effective leachate treatment methods
- PFAS stabilization and solidification
- Exposure and health implications
- And more to come!
While PFAS is the focus of the initial set of sessions, other topics will be added to the docket later in 2021.
EREF’s first session, entitled In the Room When It Happened: Industry Perspectives on PFAS, will be a panel comprised of Joe Benco (Republic Services), Sam Nicolai (Casella Waste) and David Pepper (GFL Environmental). This session will be held January 21 at 1 pm ET.