CitizensNet Banner

July 23, 2007

The Mayor's Office of Environmental Programming Recognizes

the Texans at Reliant Stadium, the Astros at Minute Maid Park, and Waste Management for Their Commitment to the Environment

Several partners, including City of Houston staff, have worked together to increase recycling opportunities within the Houston community. The American Leadership Forum Class XXIV, a community non-profit, is helping to catalyze the recycling message with different Houston neighbors. By recycling, people are reducing energy and water usage, lowering pollution, improving air and water quality and strengthening the economy. Cooperation is a key to success. "We all need to think about the game plan to increase recycling both because it's the right thing to do, and because it will save us money in the long run," Houston Mayor Bill White said. "We're happy to have the Texans and Astros as teammates in the effort."

TEXANS

The Houston Texans are proud to announce a new initiative with Waste Management, Aramark and Recycle America that will allow fans to begin recycling during Texans home games at Reliant Stadium beginning in August.

The "I Care" campaign also encourages Texans employees to recycle at Reliant Stadium. The team is looking to become a leader in a city-wide effort to recycle. Last year, the Texans distributed approximately 850,000 plastic bottles during the season.

"We believe that we can help our fans understand the role that each of us plays in the stewardship of our environment," said Houston Texans vice president of sales and marketing John Vidalin. "The best way for us to lead is by being an example to our fans and the community at large."

The effort will be year-round with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo participating in the spring. Recycling bins will be set up in August throughout the stadium, including the Texans' front office, locker room, weight room and cafeteria, to encourage fans and team employees to develop consistent recycling habits.

By launching this program, the Texans hope to educate and promote recycling and caring for the environment throughout the greater Houston community and beyond.

ASTROS

The Houston Astros have also teamed up with Waste Management to take the initial steps to promote recycling in the City of Houston. Waste Management is working with Aramark Facility Services and together will place 125 recycling containers throughout Minute Maid Park following the All-Star Break. Fans of all ages are encouraged to do their part to "pitch in" by recycling their cardboard, plastic, aluminum bottles and other trash before they leave each Astros game at the ballpark.

"This is a great opportunity for Astros fans to enjoy the game of baseball and be environmentally conscious at the same time," said Astros Vice President of Sponsorship Sales John Sorrentino. "The Astros are excited to be a part of Waste Management's 'Think Green' campaign as we work together to improve the City of Houston's environment."

Houston Astros infielder Mark Loretta will join Astros front office staff executives in a "Think Green" marketing campaign beginning Thursday, July 5, with Waste Management Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing Dave Aardsma.

"We are very excited to join our hometown Houston Astros in informing and encouraging Houstonians to become an active part of the 'Think Green' environmental sustainability movement, "said Aardsma. "Our Team Waste Management volunteers will be at Minute Maid Park to assist the Astros fans in placing cans and bottles into these conveniently located Waste Management recycling containers."