State environmental officials have recognized Mecklenburg County Solid Waste for its achievements in environmental performance. Andy Miller, Deputy Secretary for Infrastructure and Environmental Assistance at the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), presented a plaque to county officials acknowledging the program as an Environmental Steward. This designation is held by only 30 facilities across North Carolina and reflects a commitment to high standards in environmental practices, community involvement, and mentorship.
“Mecklenburg County Solid Waste has demonstrated that environmental leadership is not only about compliance but about setting a higher standard for sustainability and community engagement,” said Reid Wilson, DEQ Secretary. “Its continued commitment to innovation, outreach, and mentorship sets an example for public agencies across North Carolina.”
The Environmental Steward status is the highest level of recognition in the state’s Environmental Stewardship Initiative (ESI). To qualify, organizations must show exemplary performance that goes beyond regulatory requirements. Mecklenburg County Solid Waste (MCSW), which operates under the Mecklenburg County Land Use and Environmental Services Agency, serves nearly 1.2 million residents. The division manages solid waste processing, oversees drop-off centers, and conducts outreach on sustainability and waste reduction for residents, businesses, and schools.
Since joining ESI as a Partner in 2009, MCSW advanced to Rising Steward in 2017 before reaching Steward status in December 2024. The organization previously maintained ISO 14001 certification until 2017 but has continued to meet similar standards through ESI assessments.
“Mecklenburg County’s Solid Waste Management Program is honored to be recognized as an Environmental Steward by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality” said Jeff Smithberger, Solid Waste Director for the County. “This achievement is the result of many dedicated staff working to care for our local environment. We also appreciate the strong leadership support from County management and our elected officials, who understand the importance of managing waste properly.”
The ESI program was created by DEQ in 2002 as a voluntary initiative aimed at encouraging pollution prevention and innovative approaches among North Carolina organizations. It offers technical assistance at no cost to members, focusing on reducing waste along with water and energy usage. Members are required to report annually on their progress toward self-set goals related to environmental impact reductions.
More information about ESI can be found at www.ncesi.org or by contacting Kate Macleod, Outreach Coordinator for the initiative.
