The Association of Vermont Recyclers, a 2008 Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence winner, began in 1982 as a grassroots effort to institute recycling programs in Vermont.  Today, AVR is the state's leader in innovative technical assistance and education programs on waste prevention & reduction, resource conservation, and responsible consumerism.  AVR reaches over 26,000 Vermonters annually through partnerships with schools, businesses, events, waste managers, coalitions, and community groups.