Coexisting with Vape Pens in California

Join us for a focused discussion on the growing challenges California faces in managing and properly disposing of vape pens. This webinar will cover the regulatory gaps, hazardous waste concerns, and practical obstacles that agencies and facilities encounter, along with emerging strategies to address this rapidly evolving waste stream.

Presenters:

Kathy Rico - Senior Planner, Marin County Joint Powers Authority, Household Hazardous Waste Programs

 

Kathy Rico is the Senior Planner for Zero Waste Marin JPA, overseeing the county’s Household Hazardous Waste programs. With 14 years of experience and a degree in Environmental Engineering, Kathy leads key initiatives like solar panel collection, vape pen disposal at schools, marine flare collection events, and case studies. Originally from Colombia, she brings a global perspective to her work, focusing on reducing environmental impacts and protecting public health in her community. She served as President, Vice President, and Secretary of the NAHMMA Pacific Chapter and continues to collaborate on some of the chapter’s planning activities.

Kathy Rico is the Senior Planner for Zero Waste Marin JPA, where she oversees Marin County’s Household Hazardous Waste programs. With over 14 years of experience and a degree in Environmental Engineering, Kathy leads innovative initiatives including solar panel recycling, vape pen disposal, marine flare collection events, and community case studies. Originally from Colombia, she brings a global perspective to her work, championing efforts to reduce environmental impacts and protect public health. Kathy has served as President, Vice President, and Secretary of the NAHMMA Pacific Chapter and continues to actively support the chapter’s planning activities.

 

Tony graduated summa cum laude from Stanford University with B.A.'s in Anthropology and Political Science in 2020. As an undergraduate, his work focused primarily on public service and social change, with experiences ranging from environmental justice advocacy and sustainability research to legal aid and public-sector project management. His previous experience includes work with the National Science Foundation, Community Water Center, Legal Services of Northern California, and the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment.

As a Policy Associate with CAW, Tony works on waste reduction and recycling policy and implementation, as well as coalition-building and legislative advocacy.

 

When he isn't at work, Tony can likely be found obsessing over new growth in his tropical plant greenhouse, caring for his frogs, clutching a (large) mug of coffee near the Capitol, or basking in a puddle of Sacramento sunshine.