Professional Achievement Awards
Over a decade ago, SWANA established its Annual Awards Program to recognize contributions to SWANA, to the waste and resource management industry, and to public health and environmental protection. Each year, Chapters, Members and Staff nominate individuals for these Professional Achievement Awards.
Nominations Open for the 2026 SWANA Awards!
Submit nominations for the Professional Achievement Awards. The deadline for nominations is Monday, July 1, 2026, 11:59 pm EDT.
Award recipients will be celebrated in a special event on September 30 at SWANA’s RCon™ 2026, held September 29 – October 2 in St. Louis, Missouri (Award Ceremony location TBD).
Award Categories
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.
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 the mission of SWANA, directly or indirectly, are given particular consideration.
- This honor must be approved by the SWANA International Board.
LIFE MEMBER AWARD
- Criteria for consideration includes length of service, commitment to SWANA and its chapters, and superior dedication and service to nominee's employer.
- Only one life member award may be granted in any one year (with the exception of the Life Member Status presented annually to the outgoing Board President).
- This award is only conveyed with the approval of the SWANA International Board, conveying its stature, and entitles recipients to full membership status, without charge, in SWANA and all chapters during their lifetime.
Professional Achievement Award – Private and Public Sector Members
- Given annually, this award recognizes one SWANA member from the public sector and one from the private sector 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.
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