Meet Erik

Erik Nelson

For as long as I can remember, I have been interested in the health of the earth. I continue that journey.

I grew up in Ventura, CA, and participated in many trash cleanups along the beaches, parks, and wildlands with my dad through various YMCA programs.

I started my field of study in geology, learning about the surface of the earth and below. Then, I switched to geography to learn about the surface of the earth and above.

When I was introduced to the field of waste management, I felt this was the perfect use of my combination of studies. I officially decided to enter the field 30 years ago when I saw a simple brick made from trash.  The light went on, there has got to be something we can do with all that unwanted material that is better than putting it into the ground.

Every day, I look forward to, as I say, “fighting the good fight” by figuring out ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle as much material as possible so that one day, the pile of material diverted from our landfills will be larger than the pile deposited in them.

3 Things I Like:

• Sports

• Health and Fitness

• My dogs, Family, and Friends

Favorite Quote:

I borrow my favorite quotes from the legendary UCLA Basketball Coach and Teacher John Wooden:

• If I am through learning, I am through.

• It is what you learn after you know it all that counts.

• Tell the truth. That way you don’t have to remember a story.

• Much can be accomplished by teamwork when no one is concerned about who gets the credit.

• Treat all people with dignity and respect.

• Make each day your masterpiece.