The Future of Waste Management: Trends to Watch

Waste management might not sound glamorous, but it’s quietly becoming one of the most innovative and important industries today. As sustainability takes center stage globally, businesses and communities are rethinking how we manage and utilize waste. Here are key trends shaping the future of waste management—and how innovative companies like Sky Quarry are perfectly positioned to lead the charge.

1. Circular Economy Gains Momentum

The shift toward a circular economy, where waste is viewed as a resource rather than a liability, is gaining rapid traction. Instead of the traditional linear approach of “take-make-dispose,” companies are adopting systems that allow for continuous reuse and regeneration of resources. Sky Quarry is a prime example, converting millions of tons of discarded asphalt shingles annually into valuable petroleum products and other resources through its ECOSolv technology.

2. Technological Innovation and Digital Transformation

Advanced technologies such as AI-driven sorting, automation, and blockchain for supply chain transparency are revolutionizing waste management. Sky Quarry’s proprietary ECOSolv technology exemplifies this innovation by efficiently recovering hydrocarbons and solvents from waste shingles, significantly reducing environmental impact.

3. Regulatory Shifts Toward Sustainability

Governments worldwide are implementing stricter environmental regulations, driving companies to seek sustainable solutions. Sky Quarry is ahead of the curve, already adhering to stringent regulations and anticipating further shifts by planning modular facilities across North America, designed specifically to adapt to local sustainability requirements.

4. Increased Corporate Responsibility

Consumer awareness and expectations around corporate responsibility are at an all-time high. Companies can no longer ignore their environmental impact without risking consumer trust. Sky Quarry not only addresses this need through its sustainable recycling processes but also actively contributes to solving one of North America’s most significant waste problems.

5. Economic Viability and Profitability

Sustainable practices are no longer seen as costly obligations but rather as profitable opportunities. Sky Quarry’s integrated model demonstrates how environmental sustainability can also be economically advantageous. By controlling every aspect from collection to refinement, the company maximizes efficiency and profitability, effectively turning environmental responsibility into a lucrative business model.

Sky Quarry: Pioneering Sustainable Waste Management

Sky Quarry stands out by aligning perfectly with these trends—integrating technology, sustainability, and profitability. By effectively addressing the growing waste management challenge through innovation and forward-thinking strategies, Sky Quarry is setting new industry benchmarks.

As the waste management industry evolves, Sky Quarry continues to lead by example, proving that the future is not just about managing waste better—it’s about transforming it into valuable, sustainable resources.

Stay tuned for more insights into sustainability, innovation, and how Sky Quarry is shaping the future of responsible waste management.

 

Tom Zickell

Mr. Zickell has over 40 years of experience in the roofing industry, beginning as a self-employed roofer before joining Owens Corning and later GAF, where he managed multiple roofing and fiberglass mat plants. He became VP of Manufacturing and Engineering at GAF, overseeing significant operations and earning the Chairman’s Award for his contributions.

Tom went on to lead Georgia Pacific’s roofing division and founded NEI, a successful self-adhesive roofing underlayment manufacturer. He developed a patented method for recycling shingles and later founded ARI, RAS-Tech, and RTI, securing multiple recycling patents and partnering with Sky Quarry to advance shingle recycling technology.

Tom has a BA in Political Science from Assumption University, an Economics degree from State University at Albany, and an MBA from Suffolk University.


Jennifer Standley

Jennifer Standley has over 15 years experience building and leading startups in a variety of industries. Specializing in marketing and business development, she has played a pivotal role in streamlining operations, enhancing brand awareness, and boosting overall revenues for several direct-to-consumer sectors, particularly in the organic food industry.

She is passionate about advancing better environmental practices—be it through the promotion of organic foods for kids or contributing to Sky Quarry’s journey towards environmental sustainability.

Jennifer has a BA in Business Management and Humanities from Brigham Young University and a Professional Designation, AA degree in Design & Visual Communications from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising.


Cyla Apache

Cyla Apache is a highly motivated corporate controller, experienced in building, leading, and developing dynamic teams, with significant experience implementing software and developing efficient workflows. She also has an extensive background in tax law, enjoys both the financial and operational side of business, and has proven that an accounting department can contribute to the revenue and profitability of a company.

Cyla has successfully completed both an MBA, and an MS in Accounting. She also holds a CPA designation from the California State Board of Accountancy, along with an Enrolled Agent designation from the IRS.


Darryl Delwo

Darryl Delwo has over 25 years’ experience building and leading finance teams in global companies with significant operating scale and complexity. He has held senior positions in high growth public and private firms, providing strategic oversight to finance and operations, including $150mm of M&A activity, and joint venture and refinancing transactions.

Darryl has a BC in Accounting and Business Management from University of Calgary, holds CMA and CPA designations from CMA and CPA Alberta, and a Controllership Certificate from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Alberta.

Marcus Laun

Marcus Laun has spent the past twenty years as a founding principal or senior advisor to over fifteen publicly and privately held companies. His experience includes advising and investing Nurture, Inc. an organic baby food company which eventually sold to Group Danone for $250mm.

Marcus is also founder and CEO of GrowthCircle.com and Geopulse Exploration Inc., a media company specializing in the production and distribution of short films for corporate clients. He also has advised and raised capital for companies in the solar, wind, oil, gas, and alternative fuel industries.

As Managing Director of Knight Capital Group (the largest market-maker of equities in the US)., he oversaw syndicates for over $300 million in financing.

He has a BS in Hotel Management from Cornell University, and an MBA from Columbia University.

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David Sealock

David Sealock is a highly accomplished, results-driven senior executive leader with over 30 years of strategic management and business leadership. He has a track record of building high-performing teams with a strong focus on setting corporate strategy, executing over $1.2Bn in equity and debt transactions, joint ventures and M&A deals.

David served as CEO of Petroteq Energy, President of Autus Ventures, Vice President Technology – Petroleum Technology Alliance Canada; President & COO of Sulvaris; President & CEO of Sunshine Oilsands; EVP of MegaWest Energy; &  has held senior management positions with Deer Creek Energy, CNRL, Petrovera Resources, Total, and Chevron.

David has a BS in business management and is a Registered Engineer with the Alberta Society of Engineering Technologist (ASET).

 

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