Professional Achievement Awards

Over a decade ago, SWANA established its Annual Awards Program to recognize contributions to SWANA, to solid waste management and to public health/environmental protection. Each year, Chapters, Members and Staff nominate individuals for these Professional Achievement Awards.

Professional Achievement Award

Given annually, this award recognizes SWANA members for valuable and distinguished contributions to SWANA, the individual’s employing organization and the general public. The length of continuous contributions and services by the individual is a consideration in the selection.

Robert L. Lawrence Distinguished Service Award

This award is for a member or non-member who, by his or her service to the Municipal Solid Waste Management field, has demonstrated meritorious consideration. Determination of the award is based on the nominee’s service and activity beyond normal responsibilities to the employer and to the general public. Not always awarded every year, it represents the highest accolade the solid waste field can bestow.

Life Member Award

Criteria for consideration includes length of service, commitment to SWANA and its chapters, and superior commitment and service to his/her employer. Only one life member award may be granted in any one year (with exception of the Life Member Status presented annually to SWANA’s outgoing President). This award is only conveyed with the approval of SWANA’s International Board, conveying its stature and entitles recipients to full membership status, without charge, in SWANA and all chapters during their lifetime.

Honorary Membership Award

This award may be presented to non-members and to SWANA Staff for significant contributions to the field of environmental protection, particularly in North America, with preference to those working in solid waste management. Candidates who have been supportive of, and instrumental in, the conduct of SWANA’s mission, directly or indirectly, are given particular consideration. As with the Life Member Award, this honor must be approved by SWANA’s International Board.