Meet the Board Leadership

Gary Petersen

Gary Petersen was appointed as a full-time member of the California Integrated Waste Management Board on July 19, 2005, by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Mr. Petersen filled the position reserved for an individual with experience in the nonprofit environmental community. His term on the Board extends until January 1, 2009.

Mr. Petersen has served as president of Environmental Problem Solving Enterprises since 1997. The firm specializes in advancing environment-friendly programs and infrastructure, including the development of cleaner fuels, emergence of "green" technologies, and sustainable design and development.

Previously, Mr. Petersen was a vice-president with Waste Management, Inc.; director of environmental affairs for Recycle America from 1988 to 1997; and founder and president of Ecolo-Haul recycling from 1972 to 1988.

He is a national leader on recycling and sustainability issues and has advised local, State, and federal agencies; corporate entities; and business and environmental organizations. He is a member of the task force for the Greening of the White House and is chairman of the board of Green Seal. Mr. Petersen is a co-founder of the California Resource Recovery Association and is a founding member of the National Recycling Coalition.

Mr. Petersen lives with his wife Sherry in Santa Barbara, California. He has two grown children, Samantha and Jesse.

Last updated: October 19, 2007