On Thursday, the Hamilton County Solid Waste Management District will hold its fourth annual Recycling Awards Luncheon. The Reds and Great American Ball Park will receive the John Van Volkenburgh Award for recycling innovation and outstanding results.

Reds chief operating officer Phil Castellini will accept the award on the club's behalf.

As part of an initiative to "Go Green" in 2008, the Reds began or improved several programs that benefit the preservation of the environment. Working with Rumpke and Pepsi, it included a recycling program of plastic and paper generated from both game-day crowds and front-office business.

Waste cooking oils generated in the kitchens and concession areas were recycled for future use as bio-diesel fuel. Concrete, metals and cardboard materials are also recycled.

Other programs include reducing total hours of lighting use and using environmentally-friendly laundry detergents and cleaners. Fertilizers used on the playing field are organic, and grass clippings are moved to external green areas as a natural fertilizer.

The Reds also held "carbon neutral" games on Opening Day and Earth Day to reduce the emissions of carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases.