SA Recycling CEO Honored by ReMA

George Adams recognized for decades of impact and leadership in the recycled materials industry.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 7:36am

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A minimalist, high-contrast studio photograph of a sleek, metallic recycling equipment piece or sculpture, conveying the refined elegance and lasting impact of the recycling industry's most distinguished leaders.A prestigious industry award honors the visionary leadership that has propelled the recycled materials sector forward.Orange Today

The Recycled Materials Association (ReMA) has announced that George Adams, CEO and president of SA Recycling, is the recipient of its 2026 and inaugural Chair's Distinguished Leadership Award. The award was created to honor an individual whose leadership has made a meaningful and lasting impact on the recycled materials industry and ReMA community.

Why it matters

Adams' leadership at SA Recycling, one of the largest recycled materials companies in the country, and his contributions to ReMA and the broader recycling industry over many decades have helped shape the direction of the sector. The award recognizes his commitment to integrity, industry growth, and making a lasting positive impact.

The details

Under Adams' leadership, SA Recycling has grown to include a network of more than 150 locations nationwide and employ approximately 4,000 people. Adams served as board chair of ReMA from 2008 to 2010, helping guide the organization during a period of significant industry change and global market evolution. One cause that has attracted Adams' attention is fire prevention at metals recycling facilities.

  • Adams began his career in the recycled materials industry in the late 1970s.
  • Adams served as board chair of ReMA from 2008 to 2010.
  • Adams will receive the Chair's Distinguished Leadership Award this week at the ReMA2026 Convention in Las Vegas.

The players

George Adams

CEO and president of SA Recycling and former ReMA board of directors chair.

Colin Kelly

Current ReMA Chair who selected Adams for the inaugural Chair's Distinguished Leadership Award.

Robin Wiener

ReMA President.

SA Recycling

A recycled materials company founded by Adams' father in the late 1970s, which has grown to over 150 locations nationwide and 4,000 employees under Adams' leadership.

Recycled Materials Association (ReMA)

The Washington-based industry association that has honored Adams with its inaugural Chair's Distinguished Leadership Award.

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What they’re saying

“I am so excited to introduce a new honor—one that recognizes not just leadership, but the kind of leadership that elevates an entire industry. It is only fitting that the inaugural recipient of the Chair's Distinguished Leadership Award is George Adams. George's leadership reflects everything this award stands for—integrity, commitment, and lasting impact on our industry. He is a leader who has not only helped shape where we are today but also has paved the way for where we are going.”

— Colin Kelly, ReMA Chair

“What makes George a truly distinguished leader is his unwavering dedication to both the recycled materials industry and ReMA over many decades. From building one of the largest recycled materials companies in the country, to leading ReMA during a pivotal time for the industry and continuing to actively contribute well beyond his term as chair, George has had a lasting impact on who we are today. We are stronger, wiser, and better because of his guidance, influence and leadership—and we know his contributions are far from over.”

— Robin Wiener, ReMA President

“I joined this association in 1978 because I believed in its mission. I've seen firsthand the critical role this industry plays in manufacturing and the economy, and I'm honored to receive this recognition.”

— George Adams

What’s next

Adams will receive the Chair's Distinguished Leadership Award this week at the ReMA2026 Convention in Las Vegas.

The takeaway

George Adams' decades-long leadership and commitment to the recycled materials industry, both through growing SA Recycling into a major national player and guiding the industry association ReMA, have earned him recognition as a truly distinguished leader whose impact will continue to shape the sector for years to come.