City of Florence Launches EMAC Speaker Spotlight Series

FLORENCE, OR – The City of Florence Environmental Management Advisory Committee (EMAC) is proud to announce the launch of its new Speaker Spotlight Series, beginning Wednesday, March 11, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Lane Community College Florence Center, 3149 Oak Street.

The inaugural event features Justin Gast from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Materials Management Program. Gast will present “Where Does Oregon’s Recycling Go? The Importance of Responsible End Markets Under the Recycling Modernization Act.”

This 60‑minute presentation will give residents a clear look at what happens to their recycling after it leaves the curb. Gast will highlight Oregon’s most commonly recycled materials, explain how Responsible End Markets ensure safe and environmentally sound processing, and discuss how new fleet technology supports statewide contamination‑reduction efforts in partnership with DEQ, CAA, local governments, and service providers.

Attendees will enjoy snacks and refreshments, have access to additional educational materials, and can participate in giveaways and an opportunity drawing. All community members are welcome.

More information is available on the City of Florence website: https://www.ci.florence.or.us/365/EMAC.

Upcoming EMAC Speaker Spotlight Series Event

EMAC will host three additional presentations throughout 2026, each highlighting a different environmental topic and community partners.

• Wednesday, May 13 — David Kollen, Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation
  Topic: Insect Apocalypse
  A deep dive into pollinator decline, biodiversity loss, and what communities can do to protect vital insect populations.
• Wednesday August 12 – Jerin Dinkins, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality Food Systems Specialist
  Topic: Save the Food: From Farm to Fork
  Learn more about the DEQ 2026 Food Waste Prevention Week, September 28 to October 4.
• Saturday, November 14 — Rachel Freeman, Oregon Shores
  Topic: King Tides
  Featuring a hands‑on Marine Debris Mosaic Workshop exploring coastal stewardship and creative reuse.

More information about each event will be shared as dates approach.

About the March 11 Speaker
Justin Gast is a materials management specialist with Oregon DEQ’s Materials Management Program, currently focused on implementing the Recycling Modernization Act. Over his 20-year career, he has worked at both local and national levels, including roles with Resource Recycling, Washington County Solid Waste & Recycling, and The Recycling Partnership. Justin lives in North Portland with his wife of nearly 24 years, Terra; their daughter, Birdie; their goldendoodle, Alice; and their flock of chickens.

About DEQ Materials Management
Oregon’s DEQ Materials Management Program advances the state’s 2050 Vision, in which Oregonians produce and use materials responsibly, conserve resources, protect the environment, and live well. Using a life-cycle approach, the program focuses on reducing environmental impacts at every stage of a material’s life — from production to use to end-of-life. This science-based framework guides DEQ’s work to help communities and businesses make more sustainable choices.

About EMAC
The Environmental Management Advisory Committee (EMAC) serves as an advisory body to the City Council and City Manager for the City of Florence. EMAC supports the development of programs and actions that promote healthy, environmentally sound practices for the City and the broader community. The committee prioritizes education, community outreach, and collaborative partnerships, working to strengthen local understanding of environmental issues and advance sustainable solutions. Got questions? Email EMAC at recycleon@ci.florence.or.us or visit https://www.ci.florence.or.us/365/EMAC.