UF/IFAS Master Waste Reduction Educator Program

The Master Waste Reduction Educator Program is a UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County initiative designed to empower residents and local leaders to become champions of waste reduction practices. Tailored to the unique needs and goals of Sarasota County, participants receive specialized training in waste prevention, composting, recycling, and materials management.  Graduates of this program serve as trusted educators and advocates, leading outreach efforts in neighborhoods, schools, and community organizations. By sharing practical strategies to reduce landfill waste and conserve local resources, they help build a healthier, more resilient Sarasota County for future generations.

NOTE: This course is for Sarasota County Residents only.  It is a 6-week live in-person course on Fridays 12- 4 PM. The course includes classroom activities paired with tours of local waste reduction facilities.  The cohort is capped at 12 for Spring 2026.  

Course Dates: 

• March 20, 27
• April 3, 10, 17 (no class 3/24)
• May 1

Course Tours:

• UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County 
• Sarasota County Hazardous Waste Drop-off Center & Rothenbach Park
• Sarasota County Central Landfill 
• Balcones Recycling

Course Instructor:

Randall Penn, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County

Randall is the Waste Reduction faculty agent for UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County.  He joined Sarasota County Extension in 2016 and has nearly 15 years’ experience working in the environmental field. Randy also is the director of the Sarasota County Green Business Partnership. Feel free to reach out to rpenn@ufl.edu for more details on the course.