Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy Center Facility Tour and Discussion
Tickets: $15 for Non-Members / Free for WCS Members
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What happens after we throw something away? In Ramsey and Washington counties, the answer is more complex, innovative and connected to our energy system than most of us realize. The Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy Center in Newport processes the region’s waste to recover recyclable materials, separate food scraps and turn remaining material into fuel used to generate electricity. It is a unique piece of Minnesota’s waste and energy infrastructure and an evolving part of how the region is working to reduce landfilling and recover more value from the waste stream.
Join WCS Midwest for a behind-the-scenes tour of the R&E Center, followed by a conversation with Executive Director Trista Martinson and Washington County Commissioner Karla Bigham. We’ll explore how the facility works, where waste management is headed, and the policy, technology and community decisions shaping its future. Trista and Karla will also share their own leadership journeys, what drew them to this work and why waste, resource recovery and environmental stewardship have become important parts of their public service.
Our conversation will feature Trista Martinson, Executive Director of Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy, and Karla Bigham, Washington County District 4 Commissioner and member of the Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy Board.
EVENT SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE! Please email us at info@womencleantechsustainability.org if you have any questions.
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About Women in Cleantech and Sustainability
Women in Cleantech and Sustainability (WCS) is a global nonprofit community dedicated to advancing women working across climate, energy, and sustainability. Through events, mentorship, career resources, and local chapters around the world, WCS creates spaces where women can connect, learn, grow professionally, and collaborate to drive meaningful climate solutions. Whether you’re an industry expert, a student, a founder, or simply climate-curious, WCS welcomes those who want to build community and accelerate positive change together.