About

Sarah R Koplowicz

Member since 2022

Hello fellow NCRA members! I started my journey working in trash in 2007, when I worked as Zero Waste Coordinator at the UC Davis R4 Recycling Program. As a lifelong environmentalist, that experience galvanized my interest and led me to work in Zero Waste event management for more than a decade, managing crews for events with up to two million attendees. Along the way I spent two years at the SF Green Business Program, obtained an M.S. in Environmental Management, and now work as a Senior Consultant at R3 Consulting Group, where I assist public agencies in all aspects of solid waste programs.

In addition, I serve as a board member for the nonprofit Race to Zero Waste and have been on the Zero Waste Youth USA planning committee for 7+ years starting in 2014. I started volunteering at the NCRA Recycling Update in 2015 and have attended almost every year since. I’m also an active member of CRRA, including moderating a panel at the 2023 CRRA conference.

If elected to the NCRA Board, I would be pleased to contribute my extensive experience and knowledge of the industry and my passion for Zero Waste. It would be my honor and great pleasure to work more closely with NCRA to provide the best possible programs at the Recycling Update and throughout the year.

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Reka Abraham

Member since early 2022

My name is Reka (pronounced Ray-kah) and I’ve been a NCRA member since early 2022. I work for RecycleMore (WCCIWMA) as the Program Manager for Recycling and HHW. My day to day heavily involves SB1383 compliance and I also develop and implement community outreach programs such as our backyard composter subsidy program, edible food recovery equipment grant, and DIY repair workshops.

I have worked in both the public and private sectors of the waste industry since 2017, first in Alberta, Canada and then in California. I’ve been engaged in Zero Waste since the beginning of my solid waste career, earning my certification as a TRUE Zero Waste Advisor and completing CRRA/SWANA Zero Waste Principals and Practices. I am a member of the Zero Food Waste Committee with NCRA and participate in several SB1383 and SB54 regional monthly meetings.

The NCRA community gave me an open armed welcome at the first RU I attended when I moved to the Bay Area. It’s been an invaluable platform to connect with so many wonderful people in this industry. As a board member, I’d strive to continue encouraging resource sharing and collaboration particularly for students, new graduates and those just entering the industry. I hope to contribute my passion for sustainability and waste reduction to the Board, and boost spirits as we all keep fighting the good fight.

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Shane Magennis

Member since 2019

For the past seven years, I have been with GreenWaste REcovery, starting in sales and progressing to the role of Operations Manager for our C&D transfer facility in Sacramento.

In this position, I oversee debris box services and the materials yard, where we consistently achieve a 70-90% diversion rate, helping divert significant waste from landfills. Throughout my career, I have worked for various construction material manufacturers, and my transition to recycling construction debris reflects my commitment to promoting sustainability.

I am actively involved in the recycling industry and local communities, advocating for sustainable practices and driving environmental awareness. With extensive experience in both manufacturing and recycling, I am dedicated to enhancing resource recovery and supporting the circular economy.

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Kristina Bolam

Member since 2023

Hello! My name is Kristina Bolam, and I am so excited to be running for a seat on the NCRA Board of Directors. I began working in the waste industry in 2017 as an outreach assistant at special events then continued onto Nothing Wasted Consulting in 2022 as a Project Manager.

My work with haulers, facilities, and private entities across the region, has opened my eyes to the current reality and challenges of recycling, composting and the implementation of SB1383.

I have been attending NCRA meetups and annual conferences since 2022. I continue to learn the astounding number of ways we can positively impact and educate the community in regard to reducing waste, reuse, recycling and composting. I am very eager to participate in upcoming events and meetings to find ways we can work together to support our communities.

I truly believe that my passion for the environment, coupled with my background in customer service, would give me the tools and skill set necessary to successfully handle a board roll. Thank you for your consideration.

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Jessica Jane Robinson – Incumbent

Member since 2012

I’ve been an NCRA member since 2012, serving four years each as Treasurer then Vice President, and more recently as President in 2022 and part of 2023.

I aim to honor the legacies of my mentors and past leaders while contributing my unique experiences as an environmental advocate and community leader. My goal is to lead by leveraging my strengths and empowering our board and committees to excel in their areas of expertise, all while continuing our mission to pave the way for Zero Waste.

A key passion I want to cultivate during my term is engaging youth in becoming leaders in waste reduction and sustainability, inspiring them to join  NCRA and Zero Waste USA as future leaders.

Past Accomplishments:

  • Spoke at the UN as NCRA Vice President in 2019
  • NCRA sponsored Earth Day SF 2019, featuring our logo on Muni buses while I emceed as my superhero alias, Resilience
  • Featured in an ABC Channel 7 interview about Zero Waste in the Bay Area as NCRA Vice President
  • As Treasurer, I helped streamline NCRA’s finances
  • Advised NCRA to sponsor Girls Inc of the Island City’s youth Ethical Fashion Show

Committees Served: Zero Waste Schools, Social Media

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