Recycling: Applications open for Centre County’s Green Community Partnership
It’s that time of year again when Centre County businesses, schools and organizations get the chance to show just how green they really are. The Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority (CCRRA) has officially opened applications for the 2026 Green Community Partnership Program.
The program celebrates local entities — businesses, schools, institutions and communities — that take pride in their recycling and waste reduction efforts. Participants who meet the program’s standards will receive the recognizable “Recycling Works for My Business” window cling, a symbol of their commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable Centre County.
You’ve probably seen those clings proudly displayed on storefronts across the region. They’re a simple but powerful way to let customers and neighbors know that recycling truly matters here.
To take things a step further, local organizations with outstanding recycling programs are encouraged to submit a Green Community Partnership Application online at www.centrecountyrecycles.org.
The Authority is looking for shining examples in recycling, composting, special event recycling, reuse, environmental restoration and recycling innovation. We know there’s incredible work happening throughout Centre County, and we want to recognize it.
Applications are open now through Jan. 31, and successful applicants will be recognized at a spring awards event. Winners will also be featured in CCRRA’s newsletter, on its website, and across social media.
So, if your organization is doing great things for the planet, don’t keep it a secret. Apply today, share your story, and join the growing list of Centre County’s Green Community Partners — because when it comes to sustainability, every small effort adds up to a big difference.
Last year we recognized the following Green Community Partners: AAUW State College, Centre Region COG Refuse & Recycling Program, Centre Volunteers in Medicine, Envinity Inc., Foxdale Village, General Potter Farm, Good Day Café, Gray’s Woods Elementary School/State College Area School District, Habitat for Humanity Restore, Happy Valley Optical, Inc., KB Offset Printing, Keck’s Collision Repair, Nittany Eye Associates, Nittany Valley Charter School, Park Forest Middle School, Penn State University, Pick Research Solutions, Inc., Scraps & Skeins, Simplicity: A Bed and Breakfast, State College Presbyterian Church, The Queen, A Victorian Bed and Breakfast, The Village at Penn State, Village Heights and Weis Markets.
Fill out an online application today and add your name to this prestigious list!
Solar education added to CCRRA tours
Speaking of going green — CCRRA has recently installed more than 1,600 solar panels on three of our facility rooftops! We’ve added a solar education component to our facility tours, so if you’re interested in learning more about solar energy, now’s the perfect time to visit.
Fall tour dates are filling up quickly, so don’t wait. I love showing students, residents, and community groups around our facility to see our recycling operations and sustainability efforts in action.
Contact me today at 814-238-7005 or aschirf@centrecountyrecycles.org to schedule your tour!
Amy Schirf is education coordinator for the Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority. Contact her at aschirf@centrecountyrecycles.org.