Saturday, September 20, is World Cleanup Day, a day dedicated to cleaning up litter and mismanaged waste from natural spaces and unifying communities to drive sustainable change and protect their local ecosystems and natural resources.
In recognition of this annual global environmental event, Heidelberg Materials North America is proud to announce it has been named the Wake County Soil and Water Conservation District’s 2024 Big Sweep Partner of the Year. This award celebrates their 13-year commitment and support of the Big Sweep program.
The Big Sweep is a volunteer cleanup initiative focused on preserving local watersheds, improving water quality, and maintaining a litter-free environment at Lake Crabtree in Wake County. Since 2006, Wake Country Big Sweep has successfully removed 533,623 pounds of litter, with more than 166,00 pounds being sorted and recycled.
As a long-standing sponsor, Heidelberg Materials has played a vital role in the event’s success by donating materials and equipment, coordinating logistics, and providing meals for volunteers. Recent contributions include a custom-caged storage trailer for equipment transport and storage, six canoes, ten kayaks, paddles, life vests, and branded trailer signage.
This award highlights Heidelberg Materials’ commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement and recognizes the ongoing efforts of the company’s Southeast Region to protect and preserve their local biodiversity while also engaging with their neighbors to build a cleaner, more sustainable future for all in the community. Just last week, the team in the Southeast Region completed their fifth local cleanup of 2025.
“Heidelberg Materials is proud of its long-standing commitment to community service, including the partnership with Wake County Big Sweep, Habitat for Humanity and many other community-based organizations. The company has also made significant strides in sustainability, focusing on building a net-zero future, promoting circularity, and enhancing biodiversity,” said Daren McMorris, General Manager for Heidelberg Materials North America in North Carolina.
Community engagement is a cornerstone and one of the four pillars of Heidelberg Materials’ Sustainability Commitments. The company prioritizes the health and wellbeing of its employees, communities, and suppliers as an integral part of its business operations.
The partnership with Wake County Big Sweep was driven by a mutual commitment to environmental stewardship and meaningful community service. Together, the focus has been on cleaning local waterways and making a positive impact on the environment.
“Receiving the Big Sweep Partner of the Year Award is a prestigious recognition that underscores Heidelberg Materials' dedication to community service and environmental stewardship. It reflects the unwavering commitment of our employees and partners. I am honored to accept this award on behalf of the North Carolina Team,” said McMorris.
