About Us

The Recycling Education and Research Foundation (RERF) is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization associated with Recycled Materials Association (ReMA).

In 1967, the Institute of Scrap Iron and Steel, a ReMA predecessor association, founded a scrap research foundation that would explore new preparation methods and quality improvement in the recycling industry. In 1991, the Foundation took its first major step to expand its mission beyond research by creating a tax-exempt scholarship account for ReMA regional chapters with scholarship programs.

Today, the Recycling Education and Research Foundation has funded valuable industry research and has awarded more than $1.6 million in scholarships to more than 1,200 students across the country.

By funding research and providing academic scholarships, the Foundation continues to raise the profile of the recycling industry.

Our Mission

The purpose of the Foundation shall be to sponsor projects that promote the advancement of recycling through education, research and public awareness, while enhancing opportunities for the Recycling Industry’s workforce development and employee retention.

Board of Directors

The Recycling Education and Research Foundation’s board is comprised of individuals representing commodity processors, consumers, and equipment service providers in the industry.