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The conversation surrounding sustainable solutions for end-of-life boats, new-build scraps, and other forms of leftover fiberglass material has evolved globally for more than thirty years. Recycling solutions for composites are advancing rapidly, and new, accessible opportunities to enhance the lifecycle of recreational boating products are on the horizon. This session intends to address the expanding development of a national composites recycling supply chain that can work proactively across multiple sectors to support collective environmental goals. Through an assessment of current leading actions in this field, we will explore shared opportunities and challenges, as well as roles that marine industry members can play in the future growth of U.S. composites recycling.
Christopher Howell
Senior Director of Operations at Veolia North America
Chris Howell is the Senior Director of Operations for Veolia’s Repurposed Engineered Material (REM) service offering. The offering was started with the focus on Wind Turbine Blades that have reached End of Life (EOL). Chris and his team provide an alternative related to the management of wind turbine blades and other composites at end of life other than the practice of placing them in landfills. Chris was recently part of Veolia’s Business Support & Performance department reporting to Veolia’s corporate headquarters in Paris, France. Chris directed the management of industrial strategic accounts and is a Subject Matter Expert supporting Veolia in the Mining, Metals and Power Generation markets.Chris has had several different roles and responsibilities within Veolia during the last 27 years, primarily focused on business development and market trends to support new revenue opportunities with a client focus. Chris is a disabled Veteran who served honorably in the US Navy nuclear power program.
Evan Ridley – Moderator
Director of Environmental Programs
Rhode Island Marine Trades Association
Evan Ridley is Director of Environmental Programs at the Rhode Island Marine Trades Association. Since 2017, the focus of his work has centered on the development and growth of several sustainability initiatives in the recreational boating industry. This includes the creation and launch of the Rhode Island Fiberglass Vessel Recycling Pilot Project, an effort to establish alternatives to landfilling for end-of-life fiberglass boats and their materials. He actively shares his research on this topic with a growing network of international stakeholders and collaborators. Ridley received his Master’s degree in Marine Affairs from the University of Rhode Island.
Brought to you as part of the IBEX Education Conference and in cooperation with RIMTA
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