The “Garbage Doctor”: Marc Rogoff, 2025 SWANA Award Recipient

For nearly five decades, Marc Rogoff has dedicated his career to advancing the waste and resource management profession, and in 2025, that commitment was recognized with SWANA’s highest honor: the Robert L. Lawrence Distinguished Service Award.  

A Career in Public Service 

Marc serves as a senior consultant at Geosyntec Consultants and continues to work part-time after more than 47 years. He lives and works in Tampa, Florida, having moved there in 1981 after beginning his career in solid waste management in Hillsborough County, Florida, where he held roles including resource recovery program administrator and acting solid waste director.  

Over the decades that followed, Marc built a career that bridged both public and private sectors, working on everything from collection rate studies and waste composition programs to feasibility studies for new facilities and waste‑to‑energy projects. His work took him across nearly every U.S. state and more than 40 countries. 

Guided by Data & Curiosity 

Asked what guides his decision‑making, Marc emphasized the importance of gathering new and historical data while setting timelines to move decisions forward. He encourages professionals to listen more than they speak, understand roles firsthand, and remain transparent.  

One of the most consistent themes throughout Marc’s career has been a commitment to communication and education. Early on, he pledged to write and publish regularly—a promise that resulted in more than 300 articles and four books. That dedication has helped translate complex technical issues into practical knowledge that benefits practitioners across the industry.  

Marc’s advice for those entering or growing within the profession is straightforward and timeless: stay curious, learn how to communicate clearly, and keep learning.  

The Garbage Doctor 

Outside of his professional achievements, Marc is known for his sense of humor (including longtime “Garbage Doctor” monikers), his love of great ice cream, and his appreciation for music that boosts his mood.  

You can also hear more from Marc in his episode of The Recyclist Podcast.

SWANA is proud to honor Marc Rogoff with the 2025 Robert L. Lawrence Distinguished Service Award and celebrate his lasting. View the 2025 SWANA award recipients.  

2026 Award Nominations 

Award nominations for the next SWANA awards cycle will open soon. Members are encouraged to begin thinking about colleagues, mentors, and leaders whose service and dedication deserve recognition.  

Submitting a nomination is an opportunity to highlight the people who are shaping the future of the industry—just as Marc Rogoff has done over his career. Stay tuned for nomination details and deadlines!