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It’s a Hot Mess – Addressing Lithium Battery Fires in the Waste Stream
July 28, 2026 | 12 – 1 PM EST | Free | Virtual
Instructor: Keyna Cory
Session Overview: Lithium batteries power our daily lives, but when improperly disposed of, they are creating dangerous and costly fires in garbage trucks, recycling facilities, transfer stations, and landfills across the country. This presentation will explore the growing challenge of battery-related fires in the waste stream, including the operational, environmental, and safety impacts facing the waste and recycling industry. Attendees will learn about current prevention efforts, public education initiatives, collection programs, emerging technologies, and policy solutions aimed at reducing fire risks and improving battery management practices.
Keyna Cory is President of Public Affairs Consultants, a Tallahassee-based governmental consulting firm representing clients ranging from Fortune 100 companies to small businesses before the Florida Legislature, state agencies, and local governments. She specializes in waste management and recycling policy and also serves as Executive Director of the Florida Recycling Partnership Foundation, a coalition of leading Florida businesses and associations dedicated to educating policymakers, business leaders, and the public about the benefits of recycling and recycling right. Keyna and her husband and business partner, Jack, live in Tallahassee with their two rescue corgis, KayCee and Carson.
It’s a Hot Mess – Addressing Lithium Battery Fires in the Waste Stream
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Heat Stress: Too Hot to Ignore
Speaker: Dr. John Diaz
Session Overview: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has updated its National Emphasis Program on heat-related hazards to better protect workers in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Whats New?
- Focus on 55 high-risk industries based on recent data (2022–2025)
- Targeted inspections where heat stress risks are highest
- Improved guidance for evaluating heat safety programs
- Stronger enforcement and outreach to prevent heat-related illnesses
With rising temperatures, heat stress is a serious risk—but it’s preventable with the right knowledge and preparation.
Dr. John Diaz is an Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in the Department of Agricultural Education and Communication (AEC) at the University of Florida. He focuses on program evaluation, community development, behavior change, social marketing, and local resilience. Diaz has responsibilities in research, extension, and teaching.
Heat Stress: Too Hot to Ignore Webinar On-Demand
About TREEO Talks
TREEO Talks is an ongoing virtual webinar series featuring timely topics across environmental programs and solid waste management. Each session offers practical insight professionals can apply right away, along with direct access to subject matter experts and a closer look at TREEO program areas.
Whether you’re strengthening leadership skills, navigating regulatory updates, or exploring new training opportunities, TREEO Talks makes it easy to stay informed, connected, and ahead of what’s next in the industry.
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