The City of Federal Way has named Weyerhaeuser the business recycler of the year for 2013, with a presentation at Tuesday’s City Council meeting. The Leadership in Recycling Award recognizes local businesses that increase recycling, reduce waste generation and adopt other sustainable practices.

“We are pleased to recognize Weyerhaeuser for its efforts to increase recycling and reduce waste,” said Councilmember Dini Duclos, who presented the award. “In addition to the positive impact Weyerhaeuser’s recycling practices has on the local environment, the company’s example helps encourage other businesses to consider adopting similar environmental practices.”

Staff and administration at Weyerhaeuser have embraced waste reduction, recycling and food composting. The Corporate Headquarters and Technology Center currently recycles 55 percent of the waste it generates, and continues to implement new recycling efforts.

Weyerhaeuser has an active Green Team known as “The Sustainables” that focuses on environmental improvements. One impressive accomplishment is their annual “waste-free” company picnics where “The Sustainables” made extraordinary efforts to ensure everything was reused, recycled or composted. Last summer, they served over 700 employees and created just five pounds of trash.

“Weyerhaeuser strives to be the first choice for customers and investors, so increasing our recycling efforts is just one example of how we continually put sustainability into action,” said Weyerhaeuser’s Sustainability Manager, Ara Erickson. “We are honored to receive this award and appreciate the support the City of Federal Way provided to revitalize and improve our recycling program. On behalf of Weyerhaeuser and ‘The Sustainables,’ thank you for this recognition.”

For more information about the City’s business recycling assistance program, visit www.cityoffederalway.com/recycling.