In his March 31 COVID-19 media briefing, President Donald Trump commented on the vital work being performed by individuals in the waste and recycling industry as well as others serving on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic.
“As we send plane loads of masks, gloves and supplies to the communities battling the plague ... we also send our prayers,” said Trump. “We pray for the doctors and the nurses, the paramedics and the truck drivers, the police officers and the sanitation workers. And, above all, the people fighting for their lives in New York and all across our land.”
“We appreciate the kind words from President Trump,” said NWRA President and CEO Darrell Smith in a statement. “Our workers are on the frontlines making sure that the waste generated during this public health crisis is disposed of properly. These words of encouragement from him about this industry remind people that our work is important. We know from history that without regular waste collection, illness and disease can spread.”
NWRA is engaged with the White House, Congress and state and local governments during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure its members can continue to operate. A summary of NWRA’s ongoing actions related to the global health crisis is available here.