Vermont General Assembly honors Casella Waste Systems on 50th anniversary
May 31, 2025 | HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative , Vermont
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The Vermont Legislature celebrated a significant milestone during its recent House session, passing a resolution to honor Casella Waste Systems Incorporated on its fiftieth anniversary. The resolution, HCR 1 51, highlights the company's journey from a small garbage collection service started by Doug Casella in 1975 to a major player in waste management and sustainability, now employing over 5,000 people across ten states and serving more than one million customers.
The resolution details Casella's pioneering efforts in recycling, including the establishment of Vermont's first recycling facility in 1977, which laid the groundwork for a robust waste management infrastructure in the Northeast. The company has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, being a charter member of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Climate Leaders program and partnering with the University of Vermont to create the Casella Center for Circular Economy and Sustainability.
During the session, members praised Casella's community involvement, noting its annual contributions of over $2 million to local initiatives and the volunteer efforts of its employees. The founders, Doug and John Casella, were present in the gallery, receiving accolades for their dedication to both their workforce and the environment.
In addition to the resolution, the session included discussions on various legislative matters, including amendments to agricultural and cannabis-related bills. Notably, House Bill 484, which addresses agricultural subjects, and House Bill 321, which includes miscellaneous cannabis amendments, were both advanced with further amendments aimed at improving regulatory frameworks and supporting local businesses.
The session underscored the Vermont Legislature's commitment to recognizing local businesses that contribute positively to the community while also addressing ongoing legislative needs in agriculture and cannabis regulation. As Vermont continues to navigate these important issues, the recognition of Casella serves as a reminder of the impact that dedicated local enterprises can have on both the economy and the environment.
The resolution details Casella's pioneering efforts in recycling, including the establishment of Vermont's first recycling facility in 1977, which laid the groundwork for a robust waste management infrastructure in the Northeast. The company has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, being a charter member of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Climate Leaders program and partnering with the University of Vermont to create the Casella Center for Circular Economy and Sustainability.
During the session, members praised Casella's community involvement, noting its annual contributions of over $2 million to local initiatives and the volunteer efforts of its employees. The founders, Doug and John Casella, were present in the gallery, receiving accolades for their dedication to both their workforce and the environment.
In addition to the resolution, the session included discussions on various legislative matters, including amendments to agricultural and cannabis-related bills. Notably, House Bill 484, which addresses agricultural subjects, and House Bill 321, which includes miscellaneous cannabis amendments, were both advanced with further amendments aimed at improving regulatory frameworks and supporting local businesses.
The session underscored the Vermont Legislature's commitment to recognizing local businesses that contribute positively to the community while also addressing ongoing legislative needs in agriculture and cannabis regulation. As Vermont continues to navigate these important issues, the recognition of Casella serves as a reminder of the impact that dedicated local enterprises can have on both the economy and the environment.
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