Zach Samaras is the Zero Waste Illinois Coordinator in ISTC's Technical Assistance Program. In his role, Zach works wtih municipalities, businesses/organizations, and institutions on sustainable materials management, waste reduction and diversion. This includes waste audits and waste characterization studies, stakeholder engagement and education, technical assistance on hard to divert/recycle materials, research on renewable energy waste streams, and more. 

He previously worked as an Illinois Solar For All Outreach Specialist for the North River Commission, working to ensure environmental justice communities have a role in the transition to renewable energy. He is a graduate of Indiana University and has a Master’s in Environmental Sustainability from Loyola University Chicago with a focus on the Circular Economy. Zach is a volunteer canoe guide with Friends of the Chicago River and loves getting folks out on the river to experience the city in a new way.  

Certifications: TRUE Zero Waste Advisor (Green Business Certification Inc.), Certification in Sustainable Resource Management (San Jose State University/GreenEducation.us)