Arc Otsego Honored as 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award Winner

ONEONTA—The Arc Otsego was recently named one of Casella Waste Systems’ 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award recipients, celebrating The Arc’s longstanding partnership with Casella and its innovative recycling and reuse efforts that benefit both the local community and the environment, officials said.

According to a press release, for more than 25 years The Arc Otsego has collaborated with Casella to implement environmentally responsible practices across all its service locations. “From everyday recycling operations to the Otsego ReUse Center, where building materials and household goods are repurposed, The Arc Otsego demonstrates a commitment to sustainable solutions that serve those with developmental disabilities and the broader Otsego County community,” the release reads.

Adam Stoutenburg, Casella territory sales representative, nominated The Arc Otsego based on its expansion of recycling efforts since the opening of the Otsego ReUse Center in 2018. Stoutenburg said when he joined Casella, he saw what the agency was doing with recycling in the community and made sure that Casella was a strong partner in making it grow.

The Arc Otsego has also led the charge locally in programs for hard-to-recycle materials, such as polystyrene, fluorescent bulbs, and plastic film. Residents and businesses can bring these items to the Otsego ReUse Center at 23 Duane Street in Oneonta for recycling.

“Because we believe in sustainable communities, The Arc Otsego has long embraced recycling as more than an initiative. It’s part of who we are,” said Faith Tiemann, chief marketing officer at The Arc Otsego.

“We’re honored to be recognized alongside like-minded organizations, and even more appreciative of our ongoing partnership with Casella,” Tiemann continued. “All of our recycling efforts provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities in and around Otsego County.”

The 2025 Sustainability Leadership Awards, presented annually by Casella Waste Systems, honor organizations demonstrating bold innovation and leadership in waste reduction, recycling, and circular economy principles. The Arc Otsego joins Primo Brands, Dartmouth College, and the University of Vermont Medical Center in this year’s distinguished cohort, officials announced.

Bill Hardy, ReUse Center manager, said the most impactful part is that “you go into work every day, and you know you’re doing something good for the community.”

“We are proud to recognize and celebrate the achievements of these organizations with our annual sustainability awards,” said John W. Casella, chairman and chief executive officer of Casella. “This year’s recipients exemplify bold innovation and forward-thinking leadership. It’s a privilege to work alongside them on a journey to achieving our sustainability goals.”

Building on this milestone, The Arc Otsego will continue to expand its sustainability programs—exploring opportunities to enhance recycling systems, grow the Otsego ReUse Center, and inspire community awareness.

“The organization remains steadfast in its belief that environmental stewardship and support for individuals with developmental disabilities go hand in hand,” officials said.