November 3, 2003

Sustainable development, alternative fuels, e-cycling and clean water were on the agenda for the Municipal Waste Management Associations (MWMA) 2003 Fall Summit, held October 22-24 in Detroit. MWMA President and Detroit's Director of Environmental Affairs Sarah Lile hosted more than 60 solid waste directors, recycling managers and environmental commissioners during the interactive conference.

Andy Acho kicked off the program with a presentation about Ford's innovative crumb rubber and recycling program. Attendees also had a chance to tour the new Ford Field Stadium. Sessions also featured presentations on Detroit's ambitious new River Walk project and some innovations in alternative fuel technology from The Next Energy Think Tank and General Motors. "Detroit is home to some innovative environmental programs," said Lile. "The Fall Summit is a great opportunity to showcase some of our best practices. Detroit is really moving to connect our residents and neighborhoods to its assets — the Rogue River, and our history of innovation and technology."

MWMA attendees also began developing a legislative agenda aiming to meet the changing needs of cities. "MWMA's membership has become incredibly diverse — our members are looking for information about, and action on issues like water, air, Brownfield redevelopment, waste to energy and electronics recycling," continued Lile.

For more information about MWMA membership, and to review Fall Summit Presentations and speaker bios, visit the website at usmayors.org/mwma or contact Susan Jarvis at 202-861-6760 or by email to sjarvis@usmayors.org.