U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments
WASHINGTON, November 15, 2023 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold senior staff positions in Washington, D.C.
Eric Womack has been named Deputy General Counsel in the Office of General Counsel
Eric Womack has been named Deputy General Counsel in the Office of General Counsel
Biden-Harris Administration Announces More than $90 Million in Tribal Recycling Infrastructure Projects and Recycling Education and Outreach Grants
WASHINGTON (Nov. 15, 2023) – Today, in conjunction with America Recycles Day, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced 59 selectees to receive over $60 million in Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia, and 25 selectees to receive over $33 million in Recycling Education and Outreach (REO) grants. These grants, which are part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, a key pillar of Bidenomics, will expand recycling infrastructure and education for waste management systems across the country.
“Today, on America Recycles Day, we are putting historic recycling investments into communities, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Two years ago today, the President signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and with it, unleashed unprecedented funding to enable Tribes and communities to update recycling and composting infrastructure, while also advancing education programs to increase recycling rates and reduce waste.”
“Tribal Nations want to do their part to reduce the waste that ends up polluting communities and harming human health. Unfortunately, many lack access to proper recycling and composting programs — oftentimes through no fault of their own,” said Senator Carper (DE), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is helping more Tribal communities invest in their recycling infrastructure and improve recycling rates across Indian Country. That’s something worth celebrating this America Recycles Day!”
These recycling grants will help tackle consumer confusion and outdated recycling infrastructure, the largest barriers to proper recycling. Thanks to President Biden’s historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed two years ago today, EPA was provided the largest recycling investment in 30 years that is funding these two new programs.
These grants reflect the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to tackling environmental justice and the climate crisis. Many communities with environmental justice concerns carry a disproportionate environmental and human health burden from waste management. As part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, 100% of the funding allocated in EPA’s SWIFR for Tribes grants and 74% of the funding allocated in the REO grants will benefit underserved and overburdened communities. Increasing recycling is also an important way to reduce pollution because natural resource extraction and processing make up half of all global greenhouse gas emissions that drive the climate crisis. Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water, and minerals for new products.
Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia
The SWIFR grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia will enable Tribes to make improvements to their recycling and waste management systems, meeting Congress’ goal to create a stronger, more resilient, and cost-effective U.S. municipal solid waste recycling system. EPA has announced 59 selectees to receive over $60 million through the program.
Examples of selected projects include:
Purchasing small, mobile recycling stations to be placed strategically on Tribal land for easy access by Tribal members.
Expanding food waste management and diversion for a Tribally owned and operated casino through the purchase and operation of a large food waste digester.
Updating a building for processing recyclables, including purchasing a baler for the building, roll-off bins, and a roll-off truck for collecting, organizing, and shipping waste materials for reuse and recycling.
Constructing a new waste transfer station and purchase of related supplies and equipment.
Planning for and constructing an energy-efficient cardboard processing facility.
Updating an Integrated Waste Management Plan.
For a list of the 59 grant selectees for the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
Recycling Education and Outreach Grants
The Recycling Education and Outreach grant projects will help inform the public about local recycling and composting programs and focus on increasing collection rates and decreasing contamination of recycling streams across the nation. EPA has announced 25 selectees to receive over $33 million in Recycling Education and Outreach grants.
Examples of projects that have been selected include:
Creating a museum exhibit in a popular tourist locale to demonstrate ways that materials can be reused or remanufactured.
Implementing a school-based curriculum to educate students about sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics.
Introducing artificial intelligence technology to identify sources of contamination in the recycling stream and creating community and individual messaging to improve recycling behavior.
Conducting food waste audits and encouraging composting in Title I schools throughout disadvantaged communities in the American Southeast.
For a list of the 25 grant selectees for the Recycling Education and Outreach funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
America Recycles Day
Today marks the 29th America Recycles Day, the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the second anniversary of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy. The National Recycling Strategy was the first in a series of EPA strategies devoted to building a circular economy – one that reduces material use, redesigns materials, products, and services to be less resource intensive, and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products.
To build upon the goals of the recycling strategy, EPA released the Draft National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution for public comment in April. The Draft Strategy outlines steps to reduce pollution during production, improve management of plastic materials throughout product lifecycles, and encourage actions to keep plastics out of national waterways and the environment. Future strategies will address food waste and electronics.
EPA also recently announced over $105 million for the selectees of the historic SWIFR grants for states and communities. These improvements will support a circular economy and help lower greenhouse gas emissions as more efficient waste management systems are key to reducing energy consumption and the need for raw materials, while rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, powered by well-paying jobs that don’t require four-year degrees.
Visit EPA’s website to learn more ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
EPA offers many free, online resources, including:
Model Recycling Toolkit.
Composting Food Scraps in Your Community: A Social Marketing Toolkit.
Wasted Food Scale: Updated Recommendations.
Standardized Terms for Materials Accepted by Municipal Recycling Programs.
Creating Messages that Drive Behavior Change.
Recycling Infrastructure and Market Opportunities Map.
Learn more about America Recycles Day.
“Today, on America Recycles Day, we are putting historic recycling investments into communities, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Two years ago today, the President signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and with it, unleashed unprecedented funding to enable Tribes and communities to update recycling and composting infrastructure, while also advancing education programs to increase recycling rates and reduce waste.”
“Tribal Nations want to do their part to reduce the waste that ends up polluting communities and harming human health. Unfortunately, many lack access to proper recycling and composting programs — oftentimes through no fault of their own,” said Senator Carper (DE), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is helping more Tribal communities invest in their recycling infrastructure and improve recycling rates across Indian Country. That’s something worth celebrating this America Recycles Day!”
These recycling grants will help tackle consumer confusion and outdated recycling infrastructure, the largest barriers to proper recycling. Thanks to President Biden’s historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed two years ago today, EPA was provided the largest recycling investment in 30 years that is funding these two new programs.
These grants reflect the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to tackling environmental justice and the climate crisis. Many communities with environmental justice concerns carry a disproportionate environmental and human health burden from waste management. As part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, 100% of the funding allocated in EPA’s SWIFR for Tribes grants and 74% of the funding allocated in the REO grants will benefit underserved and overburdened communities. Increasing recycling is also an important way to reduce pollution because natural resource extraction and processing make up half of all global greenhouse gas emissions that drive the climate crisis. Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water, and minerals for new products.
Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia
The SWIFR grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia will enable Tribes to make improvements to their recycling and waste management systems, meeting Congress’ goal to create a stronger, more resilient, and cost-effective U.S. municipal solid waste recycling system. EPA has announced 59 selectees to receive over $60 million through the program.
Examples of selected projects include:
Purchasing small, mobile recycling stations to be placed strategically on Tribal land for easy access by Tribal members.
Expanding food waste management and diversion for a Tribally owned and operated casino through the purchase and operation of a large food waste digester.
Updating a building for processing recyclables, including purchasing a baler for the building, roll-off bins, and a roll-off truck for collecting, organizing, and shipping waste materials for reuse and recycling.
Constructing a new waste transfer station and purchase of related supplies and equipment.
Planning for and constructing an energy-efficient cardboard processing facility.
Updating an Integrated Waste Management Plan.
For a list of the 59 grant selectees for the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
Recycling Education and Outreach Grants
The Recycling Education and Outreach grant projects will help inform the public about local recycling and composting programs and focus on increasing collection rates and decreasing contamination of recycling streams across the nation. EPA has announced 25 selectees to receive over $33 million in Recycling Education and Outreach grants.
Examples of projects that have been selected include:
Creating a museum exhibit in a popular tourist locale to demonstrate ways that materials can be reused or remanufactured.
Implementing a school-based curriculum to educate students about sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics.
Introducing artificial intelligence technology to identify sources of contamination in the recycling stream and creating community and individual messaging to improve recycling behavior.
Conducting food waste audits and encouraging composting in Title I schools throughout disadvantaged communities in the American Southeast.
For a list of the 25 grant selectees for the Recycling Education and Outreach funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
America Recycles Day
Today marks the 29th America Recycles Day, the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the second anniversary of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy. The National Recycling Strategy was the first in a series of EPA strategies devoted to building a circular economy – one that reduces material use, redesigns materials, products, and services to be less resource intensive, and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products.
To build upon the goals of the recycling strategy, EPA released the Draft National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution for public comment in April. The Draft Strategy outlines steps to reduce pollution during production, improve management of plastic materials throughout product lifecycles, and encourage actions to keep plastics out of national waterways and the environment. Future strategies will address food waste and electronics.
EPA also recently announced over $105 million for the selectees of the historic SWIFR grants for states and communities. These improvements will support a circular economy and help lower greenhouse gas emissions as more efficient waste management systems are key to reducing energy consumption and the need for raw materials, while rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, powered by well-paying jobs that don’t require four-year degrees.
Visit EPA’s website to learn more ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
EPA offers many free, online resources, including:
Model Recycling Toolkit.
Composting Food Scraps in Your Community: A Social Marketing Toolkit.
Wasted Food Scale: Updated Recommendations.
Standardized Terms for Materials Accepted by Municipal Recycling Programs.
Creating Messages that Drive Behavior Change.
Recycling Infrastructure and Market Opportunities Map.
Learn more about America Recycles Day.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Over $1.5 Million for Hawaii Recycling Education and Outreach
SAN FRANCISCO – Today, in conjunction with America Recycles Day, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing a $1,547,635 Recycling Education and Outreach (REO) grant to Recycle Hawai’i. Recycle Hawai’i’s proposed project empowers three cohorts of Hawaii-based student resource ambassadors to design and launch education campaigns aimed at: informing the public about the nexus between climate and waste, increasing awareness about the impacts of plastic pollution, increasing participation in community recycling events and decreasing contamination in the recycling stream.
“This grant, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will enable Recycle Hawai’i to increase recycling rates in the community it serves through in-person engagement and education,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “Recycling, reducing waste and composting are ways everyone can protect the environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
"From the time the REO opportunity was first announced, we were inspired by the thoughtfulness the Biden/Harris Administration put into the program. The focus on community level engagement and the emphasis on sustainable materials management told us this would be a groundbreaking initiative. We are honored to be part of it and eager to get to work." said Kristine Kubat, Executive Director of Recycle Hawai'i.
Recycling Education and Outreach grant projects will help inform the public about local recycling and composting programs and focus on increasing collection rates and decreasing contamination of recycling streams across the nation. These recycling grants will help tackle consumer confusion and outdated recycling infrastructure, the largest barriers to proper recycling.
Thanks to President Biden’s historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed two years ago today, EPA was provided the largest recycling investment in 30 years. Many communities with environmental justice concerns carry a disproportionate environmental and human health burden from waste management. As part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, 74% of the funding allocated in the REO grants will benefit underserved and overburdened communities. Increasing recycling is also an important way to reduce pollution because natural resource extraction and processing make up half of all global greenhouse gas emissions that drive the climate crisis. Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water, and minerals for new products.
To learn more about the Recycling Education and Outreach funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
America Recycles Day
Today marks both the 29th America Recycles Day, the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the second anniversary of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy. The National Recycling Strategy was the first in a series of EPA strategies devoted to building a circular economy – one that reduces material use, redesigns materials, products, and services to be less resource intensive, and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products.
To build upon the goals of the recycling strategy, EPA released the Draft National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution for public comment in April. The Draft Strategy outlines steps to reduce pollution during production, improve management of plastic materials throughout product lifecycles, and encourage actions to keep plastics out of national waterways and the environment. Future strategies will address food waste and electronics.
Visit EPA’s website to learn more ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
Learn more about America Recycles Day.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on X.
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“This grant, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will enable Recycle Hawai’i to increase recycling rates in the community it serves through in-person engagement and education,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “Recycling, reducing waste and composting are ways everyone can protect the environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
"From the time the REO opportunity was first announced, we were inspired by the thoughtfulness the Biden/Harris Administration put into the program. The focus on community level engagement and the emphasis on sustainable materials management told us this would be a groundbreaking initiative. We are honored to be part of it and eager to get to work." said Kristine Kubat, Executive Director of Recycle Hawai'i.
Recycling Education and Outreach grant projects will help inform the public about local recycling and composting programs and focus on increasing collection rates and decreasing contamination of recycling streams across the nation. These recycling grants will help tackle consumer confusion and outdated recycling infrastructure, the largest barriers to proper recycling.
Thanks to President Biden’s historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed two years ago today, EPA was provided the largest recycling investment in 30 years. Many communities with environmental justice concerns carry a disproportionate environmental and human health burden from waste management. As part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, 74% of the funding allocated in the REO grants will benefit underserved and overburdened communities. Increasing recycling is also an important way to reduce pollution because natural resource extraction and processing make up half of all global greenhouse gas emissions that drive the climate crisis. Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water, and minerals for new products.
To learn more about the Recycling Education and Outreach funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
America Recycles Day
Today marks both the 29th America Recycles Day, the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the second anniversary of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy. The National Recycling Strategy was the first in a series of EPA strategies devoted to building a circular economy – one that reduces material use, redesigns materials, products, and services to be less resource intensive, and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products.
To build upon the goals of the recycling strategy, EPA released the Draft National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution for public comment in April. The Draft Strategy outlines steps to reduce pollution during production, improve management of plastic materials throughout product lifecycles, and encourage actions to keep plastics out of national waterways and the environment. Future strategies will address food waste and electronics.
Visit EPA’s website to learn more ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
Learn more about America Recycles Day.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on X.
###
EPA Awards Recycling Education and Outreach Grants to Maine and New Hampshire Organizations as Part of America Recycles Day
BOSTON (Nov. 15, 2023) – Today, in conjunction with America Recycles Day, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that two New England organizations are among 25 selectees to receive a portion of $33+ million in Recycling Education and Outreach (REO) grants. These grants, which are part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, a key pillar of Bidenomics, will expand recycling infrastructure and education for waste management systems across the region.
The local awardees are ecomaine, located in Portland, who were selected to receive $2 Million for a project called “An Effort to Increase Maine's Recycling Rate Through Outreach to Stakeholders of Multi-Family Dwelling Units;” and Northeast Resource Recovery Association, located in Epsom, N.H., to receive $440,000 for a project called “Recycle Right North Country.”
“Today, on America Recycles Day, we are putting historic recycling investments into communities, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Two years ago today, the President signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and with it, unleashed unprecedented funding to enable Tribes and communities to update recycling and composting infrastructure, while also advancing education programs to increase recycling rates and reduce waste.”
“Addressing the climate crisis requires many thoughtful and creative solutions. These two projects designed to expand recycling efforts will make a big difference helping Maine and New Hampshire to increase recycling rates and improve sustainability for our communities,” said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “The Recycling Education and Outreach grant projects will help inform the public about local recycling and composting programs and focus on increasing collection rates and decreasing contamination of recycling streams across the nation.”
The group ecomaine proposes to increase the recycling rate in Maine via a targeted pilot with dedicated educational outreach programming and single-sort recycling strategies in multi-family dwelling units, where access to participation traditionally has been limited. Outreach to residents and property owners, informational materials, social media, and increased access to recycling solutions will help to divert more recyclable material from Maine’s landfills.
Recycle Right North Country will increase residential recycling rates and decrease recycling contamination in thirty disadvantaged, rural, and low-income North Country, NH communities by providing education to both residents and solid waste facility operators. A nine-month campaign will consist of four objectives: Resident Outreach, In-Person Education, Train the Trainers programming, and a culminating Recycle Right North Country Summit.
Nationally and locally, these recycling grants will help tackle consumer confusion and outdated recycling infrastructure, the largest barriers to proper recycling. Thanks to President Biden’s historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed two years ago today, EPA was provided the largest recycling investment in 30 years that is funding these two new programs.
These grants reflect the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to tackling environmental justice and the climate crisis. Many communities with environmental justice concerns carry a disproportionate environmental and human health burden from waste disposal. As part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, 74% of the funding allocated in the REO grants will benefit underserved and overburdened communities. Increasing recycling is also an important way to reduce pollution because natural resource extraction and processing make up half of all global greenhouse gas emissions that drive the climate crisis. Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water, and minerals for new products.
To learn more about the Recycling Education and Outreach funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
America Recycles Day
Today marks both the 39th America Recycles Day, the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the second anniversary of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy. The National Recycling Strategy was the first in a series of EPA strategies devoted to building a circular economy – one that reduces material use, redesigns materials, products, and services to be less resource intensive, and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products.
To build upon the goals of the recycling strategy, EPA released the Draft National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution for public comment in April. The Draft Strategy outlines steps to reduce pollution during production, improve management of plastic materials throughout product lifecycles, and encourage actions to keep plastics out of national waterways and the environment. Future strategies will address food waste and electronics.
EPA also recently announced over $105 million for the selectees of the historic SWIFR grants for states and communities. These improvements will support a circular economy, help lower greenhouse gas emissions, as more efficient waste management systems are key to reducing energy consumption and the need for raw materials, while rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, powered by well-paying jobs that don’t require four-year degrees.
Visit EPA’s website to learn more ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
EPA offers many free, online resources, including:
Model Recycling Toolkit.
Composting Food Scraps in Your Community: A Social Marketing Toolkit.
Wasted Food Scale: Updated Recommendations.
Standardized Terms for Materials Accepted by Municipal Recycling Programs.
Creating Messages that Drive Behavior Change.
Recycling Infrastructure and Market Opportunities Map.
Learn more about America Recycles Day.
# # #
The local awardees are ecomaine, located in Portland, who were selected to receive $2 Million for a project called “An Effort to Increase Maine's Recycling Rate Through Outreach to Stakeholders of Multi-Family Dwelling Units;” and Northeast Resource Recovery Association, located in Epsom, N.H., to receive $440,000 for a project called “Recycle Right North Country.”
“Today, on America Recycles Day, we are putting historic recycling investments into communities, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Two years ago today, the President signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and with it, unleashed unprecedented funding to enable Tribes and communities to update recycling and composting infrastructure, while also advancing education programs to increase recycling rates and reduce waste.”
“Addressing the climate crisis requires many thoughtful and creative solutions. These two projects designed to expand recycling efforts will make a big difference helping Maine and New Hampshire to increase recycling rates and improve sustainability for our communities,” said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “The Recycling Education and Outreach grant projects will help inform the public about local recycling and composting programs and focus on increasing collection rates and decreasing contamination of recycling streams across the nation.”
The group ecomaine proposes to increase the recycling rate in Maine via a targeted pilot with dedicated educational outreach programming and single-sort recycling strategies in multi-family dwelling units, where access to participation traditionally has been limited. Outreach to residents and property owners, informational materials, social media, and increased access to recycling solutions will help to divert more recyclable material from Maine’s landfills.
Recycle Right North Country will increase residential recycling rates and decrease recycling contamination in thirty disadvantaged, rural, and low-income North Country, NH communities by providing education to both residents and solid waste facility operators. A nine-month campaign will consist of four objectives: Resident Outreach, In-Person Education, Train the Trainers programming, and a culminating Recycle Right North Country Summit.
Nationally and locally, these recycling grants will help tackle consumer confusion and outdated recycling infrastructure, the largest barriers to proper recycling. Thanks to President Biden’s historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed two years ago today, EPA was provided the largest recycling investment in 30 years that is funding these two new programs.
These grants reflect the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to tackling environmental justice and the climate crisis. Many communities with environmental justice concerns carry a disproportionate environmental and human health burden from waste disposal. As part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, 74% of the funding allocated in the REO grants will benefit underserved and overburdened communities. Increasing recycling is also an important way to reduce pollution because natural resource extraction and processing make up half of all global greenhouse gas emissions that drive the climate crisis. Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water, and minerals for new products.
To learn more about the Recycling Education and Outreach funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
America Recycles Day
Today marks both the 39th America Recycles Day, the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the second anniversary of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy. The National Recycling Strategy was the first in a series of EPA strategies devoted to building a circular economy – one that reduces material use, redesigns materials, products, and services to be less resource intensive, and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products.
To build upon the goals of the recycling strategy, EPA released the Draft National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution for public comment in April. The Draft Strategy outlines steps to reduce pollution during production, improve management of plastic materials throughout product lifecycles, and encourage actions to keep plastics out of national waterways and the environment. Future strategies will address food waste and electronics.
EPA also recently announced over $105 million for the selectees of the historic SWIFR grants for states and communities. These improvements will support a circular economy, help lower greenhouse gas emissions, as more efficient waste management systems are key to reducing energy consumption and the need for raw materials, while rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, powered by well-paying jobs that don’t require four-year degrees.
Visit EPA’s website to learn more ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
EPA offers many free, online resources, including:
Model Recycling Toolkit.
Composting Food Scraps in Your Community: A Social Marketing Toolkit.
Wasted Food Scale: Updated Recommendations.
Standardized Terms for Materials Accepted by Municipal Recycling Programs.
Creating Messages that Drive Behavior Change.
Recycling Infrastructure and Market Opportunities Map.
Learn more about America Recycles Day.
# # #
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Almost $8 Million for Tribal Recycling Infrastructure Projects in the Pacific Southwest
SAN FRANCISCO – Today, in conjunction with America Recycles Day, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing nine selectees across the nation’s Pacific Southwest region to receive a total of $7,915,660 in Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia. These grants, which are part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will expand recycling infrastructure and education for Tribal waste management systems across the region.
“These grants, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will enable Tribes across the Pacific Southwest to increase recycling rates in their communities through improved infrastructure, in-person engagement and education,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “Recycling, reducing waste and composting are ways everyone can protect the environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
EPA’s nine selectees are:
Cher Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria ($950,679) in California will construct a zero waste facility, purchase equipment, hire and train staff, and install and service compost and recycling bins throughout the community. The Trinidad Rancheria zero waste facility will process the Tribe’s food waste, green waste, paper waste, fish waste from sport and charter fishers, serve as a transfer station for sorting and backhauling common recyclables, and provide an example for the development of circular economies for tribes and rural communities.
“The Trinidad Rancheria is pleased to receive funding through EPA Solid Waste Infrastructure for recycling. This funding will enable the Tribe to develop a Zero Waste Facility to serve our tribal government, tribal community, and economic development enterprises. This facility will also serve as an example for future development of circular economies through sustainable materials management for rural communities and tribes,” said Garth Sundberg, Tribal Chairman, Trinidad Rancheria.
Gila River Indian Community ($1,276,606) in Arizona will evaluate its current waste stream for contamination issues and opportunities to create baseline data to track recycling progress and build physical and programmatic capacity to address recycling needs. The purchase of recycling bins and two automated side loader recycling trucks to expand curbside recycling collection, along with community education will increase recycling rates by conducting education for the population of 12,000 residents to maximize community participation and reduce contamination of the recycling stream.
Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel ($1,500,000) in California will build and staff a small-scale sorting and transfer station and implement an outreach campaign to manage post-consumer materials and divert waste from landfills. The project will consist of an education and outreach phase, a construction phase, and an operations and data collection phase, all phases including consistent reporting. The sorting station will divert waste from landfills by recovering, reusing, recycling, repairing, and refurbishing appropriate materials and ultimately assist in creating a circular economy by developing a business model that allows postconsumer products to maintain their highest value for as long as possible.
“A Sorting and Transfer station will assist the Nation in protecting the environment and creating a circular economy for historically underserved communities” said Kevin Osuna, Chairman of the Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel. “By developing a waste management model that allows post-consumer products to maintain their highest value for as long as possible, we are strengthening our commitment in protecting the environment and providing for the next seven generations.”
Mesa Grande Band of Mission Indians ($173,750) in California will procure infrastructure to allow the Tribe to implement its integrated waste management plan to improve collection and materials management infrastructure, increase the reuse of used and discarded materials, reduce contamination in the waste and recycle streams, and identify markets for recyclables.
Pechanga Band of Indians ($1,065,473) in California will establish a curbside recycling program for the tribal community on Pechanga Reservation, design and build infrastructure to support a materials recovery facility for the tribal community and increase diversion of recyclable and compostable materials and household hazardous waste. Funding will be used for equipment and infrastructure, including a designated facility for household hazardous waste, as well as staff time.
Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians ($1,500,000) in California will expand materials management infrastructure at the Rincon transfer station to facilitate greater reuse, recycling, composting, collection, and storage of recyclable and organic materials on the Rincon Reservation. The project includes asphalt paving; installation of a filtered drainage system; purchasing equipment including a tub grinder and a recycling station for plastic bottles, cans, cardboard, and glass; and roofing and secondary containment for tires, composting, hazardous waste, and e-waste collection areas for added safety.
“We are excited to upgrade our solid waste and recycling infrastructure program on our tribal reservation,” said Chairman Bo Mazzetti of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians. “Our goal is to keep our tribal lands clean and green for our future generations while educating our people on the importance of recycling and the many environmental and economic benefits that can be achieved. Together we can create positive change.”
Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians ($406,837) in California will improve solid waste management planning and infrastructure, maximize diversion rates and community participation, and improve zero waste education. The project will develop a tribally approved Integrated Waste Management Plan to serve the community, develop educational programming and an enforceable regulatory framework to enhance residential participation.
Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians ($653,120) in California will enhance their recycling program to increase recycling self-reliance capacity within the reservation by purchasing improved recycling infrastructure and supplies that will create an updated recycling center on the reservation. The Tribe’s Environmental Department plans to recycle all recyclable materials, produced both on and off the reservation, including from the administrative buildings, Tribal membership housing, economic development properties, and the clinic.
“This funding will allow us to build a recycling center to maximize the volume of recyclable materials and organics removed from the waste stream on Tribal land,” said Chairwoman Regina Cuellar said Chairwoman Regina Cuellar of the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians. “We look forward to working with the Tribal community to create a more sustainable future.”
Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Indian Reservation ($389,194) in Nevada will improve recycling practices for the Tribe by fully staffing their recycling program, purchasing needed recycling equipment including a baler, and improving their education and outreach program. This project aims to expand materials management infrastructure and reduce waste.
"The Shoshone Paiute Tribes are thrilled to announce the successful acquisition of a Solid Waste Infrastructure/Recycling grant from the EPA. This momentous achievement underscores our commitment to environmental stewardship, as we eagerly embark on initiatives to diminish the carbon footprint within our community and foster sustainability," said Marissa Snapp, Tribal Environmental Director, Shoshone Paiute Tribes.
These recycling grants will help tackle consumer confusion and outdated recycling infrastructure, the largest barriers to proper recycling. Thanks to President Biden’s historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed two years ago today, EPA was provided the largest recycling investment in 30 years that is funding these two new programs.
These grants reflect the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to tackling environmental justice and the climate crisis. Many communities with environmental justice concerns carry a disproportionate environmental and human health burden from waste management. As part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, 100% of the funding allocated in EPA’s Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling for Tribes grants will benefit underserved and overburdened communities. Increasing recycling is also an important way to reduce pollution because natural resource extraction and processing make up half of all global greenhouse gas emissions that drive the climate crisis. Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water, and minerals for new products.
Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia
The Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia will enable Tribes to make improvements to their recycling and waste management systems, meeting Congress’ goal to create a stronger, more resilient, and cost-effective U.S. municipal solid waste recycling system.
To learn more about the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
America Recycles Day
Today marks both the 29th America Recycles Day, the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the second anniversary of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy. The National Recycling Strategy was the first in a series of EPA strategies devoted to building a circular economy – one that reduces material use, redesigns materials, products, and services to be less resource intensive, and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products.
To build upon the goals of the recycling strategy, EPA released the Draft National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution for public comment in April. The Draft Strategy outlines steps to reduce pollution during production, improve management of plastic materials throughout product lifecycles, and encourage actions to keep plastics out of national waterways and the environment. Future strategies will address food waste and electronics.
EPA also recently announced over $105 million for the selectees of the historic SWIFR grants for states and communities. These improvements will support a circular economy, help lower greenhouse gas emissions, as more efficient waste management systems are key to reducing energy consumption and the need for raw materials, while rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, powered by well-paying jobs that don’t require four-year degrees.
Visit EPA’s website to learn more ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
Learn more about America Recycles Day.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on X.
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“These grants, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will enable Tribes across the Pacific Southwest to increase recycling rates in their communities through improved infrastructure, in-person engagement and education,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “Recycling, reducing waste and composting are ways everyone can protect the environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
EPA’s nine selectees are:
Cher Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria ($950,679) in California will construct a zero waste facility, purchase equipment, hire and train staff, and install and service compost and recycling bins throughout the community. The Trinidad Rancheria zero waste facility will process the Tribe’s food waste, green waste, paper waste, fish waste from sport and charter fishers, serve as a transfer station for sorting and backhauling common recyclables, and provide an example for the development of circular economies for tribes and rural communities.
“The Trinidad Rancheria is pleased to receive funding through EPA Solid Waste Infrastructure for recycling. This funding will enable the Tribe to develop a Zero Waste Facility to serve our tribal government, tribal community, and economic development enterprises. This facility will also serve as an example for future development of circular economies through sustainable materials management for rural communities and tribes,” said Garth Sundberg, Tribal Chairman, Trinidad Rancheria.
Gila River Indian Community ($1,276,606) in Arizona will evaluate its current waste stream for contamination issues and opportunities to create baseline data to track recycling progress and build physical and programmatic capacity to address recycling needs. The purchase of recycling bins and two automated side loader recycling trucks to expand curbside recycling collection, along with community education will increase recycling rates by conducting education for the population of 12,000 residents to maximize community participation and reduce contamination of the recycling stream.
Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel ($1,500,000) in California will build and staff a small-scale sorting and transfer station and implement an outreach campaign to manage post-consumer materials and divert waste from landfills. The project will consist of an education and outreach phase, a construction phase, and an operations and data collection phase, all phases including consistent reporting. The sorting station will divert waste from landfills by recovering, reusing, recycling, repairing, and refurbishing appropriate materials and ultimately assist in creating a circular economy by developing a business model that allows postconsumer products to maintain their highest value for as long as possible.
“A Sorting and Transfer station will assist the Nation in protecting the environment and creating a circular economy for historically underserved communities” said Kevin Osuna, Chairman of the Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel. “By developing a waste management model that allows post-consumer products to maintain their highest value for as long as possible, we are strengthening our commitment in protecting the environment and providing for the next seven generations.”
Mesa Grande Band of Mission Indians ($173,750) in California will procure infrastructure to allow the Tribe to implement its integrated waste management plan to improve collection and materials management infrastructure, increase the reuse of used and discarded materials, reduce contamination in the waste and recycle streams, and identify markets for recyclables.
Pechanga Band of Indians ($1,065,473) in California will establish a curbside recycling program for the tribal community on Pechanga Reservation, design and build infrastructure to support a materials recovery facility for the tribal community and increase diversion of recyclable and compostable materials and household hazardous waste. Funding will be used for equipment and infrastructure, including a designated facility for household hazardous waste, as well as staff time.
Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians ($1,500,000) in California will expand materials management infrastructure at the Rincon transfer station to facilitate greater reuse, recycling, composting, collection, and storage of recyclable and organic materials on the Rincon Reservation. The project includes asphalt paving; installation of a filtered drainage system; purchasing equipment including a tub grinder and a recycling station for plastic bottles, cans, cardboard, and glass; and roofing and secondary containment for tires, composting, hazardous waste, and e-waste collection areas for added safety.
“We are excited to upgrade our solid waste and recycling infrastructure program on our tribal reservation,” said Chairman Bo Mazzetti of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians. “Our goal is to keep our tribal lands clean and green for our future generations while educating our people on the importance of recycling and the many environmental and economic benefits that can be achieved. Together we can create positive change.”
Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians ($406,837) in California will improve solid waste management planning and infrastructure, maximize diversion rates and community participation, and improve zero waste education. The project will develop a tribally approved Integrated Waste Management Plan to serve the community, develop educational programming and an enforceable regulatory framework to enhance residential participation.
Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians ($653,120) in California will enhance their recycling program to increase recycling self-reliance capacity within the reservation by purchasing improved recycling infrastructure and supplies that will create an updated recycling center on the reservation. The Tribe’s Environmental Department plans to recycle all recyclable materials, produced both on and off the reservation, including from the administrative buildings, Tribal membership housing, economic development properties, and the clinic.
“This funding will allow us to build a recycling center to maximize the volume of recyclable materials and organics removed from the waste stream on Tribal land,” said Chairwoman Regina Cuellar said Chairwoman Regina Cuellar of the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians. “We look forward to working with the Tribal community to create a more sustainable future.”
Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Indian Reservation ($389,194) in Nevada will improve recycling practices for the Tribe by fully staffing their recycling program, purchasing needed recycling equipment including a baler, and improving their education and outreach program. This project aims to expand materials management infrastructure and reduce waste.
"The Shoshone Paiute Tribes are thrilled to announce the successful acquisition of a Solid Waste Infrastructure/Recycling grant from the EPA. This momentous achievement underscores our commitment to environmental stewardship, as we eagerly embark on initiatives to diminish the carbon footprint within our community and foster sustainability," said Marissa Snapp, Tribal Environmental Director, Shoshone Paiute Tribes.
These recycling grants will help tackle consumer confusion and outdated recycling infrastructure, the largest barriers to proper recycling. Thanks to President Biden’s historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed two years ago today, EPA was provided the largest recycling investment in 30 years that is funding these two new programs.
These grants reflect the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to tackling environmental justice and the climate crisis. Many communities with environmental justice concerns carry a disproportionate environmental and human health burden from waste management. As part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, 100% of the funding allocated in EPA’s Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling for Tribes grants will benefit underserved and overburdened communities. Increasing recycling is also an important way to reduce pollution because natural resource extraction and processing make up half of all global greenhouse gas emissions that drive the climate crisis. Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water, and minerals for new products.
Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia
The Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia will enable Tribes to make improvements to their recycling and waste management systems, meeting Congress’ goal to create a stronger, more resilient, and cost-effective U.S. municipal solid waste recycling system.
To learn more about the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
America Recycles Day
Today marks both the 29th America Recycles Day, the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the second anniversary of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy. The National Recycling Strategy was the first in a series of EPA strategies devoted to building a circular economy – one that reduces material use, redesigns materials, products, and services to be less resource intensive, and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products.
To build upon the goals of the recycling strategy, EPA released the Draft National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution for public comment in April. The Draft Strategy outlines steps to reduce pollution during production, improve management of plastic materials throughout product lifecycles, and encourage actions to keep plastics out of national waterways and the environment. Future strategies will address food waste and electronics.
EPA also recently announced over $105 million for the selectees of the historic SWIFR grants for states and communities. These improvements will support a circular economy, help lower greenhouse gas emissions, as more efficient waste management systems are key to reducing energy consumption and the need for raw materials, while rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, powered by well-paying jobs that don’t require four-year degrees.
Visit EPA’s website to learn more ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
Learn more about America Recycles Day.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on X.
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U.S. EPA Mid-Atlantic Region and City of Baltimore celebrate America Recycles Day and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
Baltimore, MD - U.S. EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Director Adam Ortiz and the City of Baltimore celebrated two milestones – America Recycles Day and the anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) – by visiting the site of a future composting facility in Baltimore that was selected for a $4 million Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) grant. Once constructed, the facility will accept food scraps and other organic material to be turned into compost in the solar powered facility.
“Recycling is a key component to reducing waste in communities but not everyone realizes the related benefits that recycling has,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Director Adam Ortiz. “This facility, which was selected for a grant under the BIL’s SWIFR program, will recycle food scraps into usable compost material. It will also prevent that food waste from going to incinerators in South Baltimore which will improve the air quality of the communities nearby. Altogether, it is a sterling example of the positive impact that BIL is having across the country.”
“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has provided our city with incredible investments, which my newly created Mayor’s Office of Infrastructure Development is putting to use to overcome the decades of disinvestment that far too many of our communities have faced for decades,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “Today, on American Recycles Day and two years since this bill became law, we’re thrilled to welcome the EPA and so many partners to our city to highlight one of the projects this law is funding to help shape the future of Baltimore. As the first composting facility of its kind in our City, this project will help our commitment to reducing our waste and modernizing the way we handle it in order to make our city healthier and more sustainable for generations to come.”
“The Environmental Protection Agency’s Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling grant will support the creation of a first-of-its-kind solar-powered composting facility, which will divert 12,000 tons of waste annually from the City’s waste stream. This will be an important advancement toward zero waste for the City of Baltimore. I want to thank the EPA for their support in this process, and look forward to continuing our collaboration and partnership on this project,” said Baltimore City Department of Public Works Interim Director Richard Luna.
President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, to driving over $470 billion in private sector manufacturing and clean energy investments in the United States, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.
EPA’s SWIFR Program is also advancing President's Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution. Approximately $59 million out of the $73 million – or 81% - of the total funding for communities will go toward projects that benefit disadvantaged communities.
“Recycling is a key component to reducing waste in communities but not everyone realizes the related benefits that recycling has,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Director Adam Ortiz. “This facility, which was selected for a grant under the BIL’s SWIFR program, will recycle food scraps into usable compost material. It will also prevent that food waste from going to incinerators in South Baltimore which will improve the air quality of the communities nearby. Altogether, it is a sterling example of the positive impact that BIL is having across the country.”
“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has provided our city with incredible investments, which my newly created Mayor’s Office of Infrastructure Development is putting to use to overcome the decades of disinvestment that far too many of our communities have faced for decades,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “Today, on American Recycles Day and two years since this bill became law, we’re thrilled to welcome the EPA and so many partners to our city to highlight one of the projects this law is funding to help shape the future of Baltimore. As the first composting facility of its kind in our City, this project will help our commitment to reducing our waste and modernizing the way we handle it in order to make our city healthier and more sustainable for generations to come.”
“The Environmental Protection Agency’s Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling grant will support the creation of a first-of-its-kind solar-powered composting facility, which will divert 12,000 tons of waste annually from the City’s waste stream. This will be an important advancement toward zero waste for the City of Baltimore. I want to thank the EPA for their support in this process, and look forward to continuing our collaboration and partnership on this project,” said Baltimore City Department of Public Works Interim Director Richard Luna.
President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, to driving over $470 billion in private sector manufacturing and clean energy investments in the United States, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.
EPA’s SWIFR Program is also advancing President's Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution. Approximately $59 million out of the $73 million – or 81% - of the total funding for communities will go toward projects that benefit disadvantaged communities.
Biden-Harris Administration announces more than $9.2M for EPA Region 8 Tribal and community recycling projects as part of America Recycles Day
DENVER – Today, in conjunction with America Recycles Day, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced nine selectees to receive more than $9.2 million in Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) grants for Tribes and Recycling Education and Outreach (REO) grants. Selectees include several Tribal Nations in Montana and North Dakota, nongovernment organizations in Eagle and Denver, Colorado, and the Salt Lake City Corporation.
Part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and a key pillar of Bidenomics, these grants will expand recycling infrastructure and education for waste management systems across the region.
“Today, on America Recycles Day, we are putting historic recycling investments into communities, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Two years ago today, the President signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and with it, unleashed unprecedented funding to enable Tribes and communities to update recycling and composting infrastructure, while also advancing education programs to increase recycling rates and reduce waste.”
“EPA’s Tribal and community partners have developed comprehensive plans to expand and improve waste management services for their residents and businesses,” said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. “From enhanced recycling and market development to new food waste recovery and composting programs, these investments will make visible differences in communities in Colorado, North Dakota, Montana and Utah.”
These grants reflect the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to tackling environmental justice and the climate crisis. As part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, 100% of the funding allocated in EPA’s SWIFR for Tribes grants and 74% of the funding allocated in the REO grants will benefit underserved and overburdened communities.
Increasing recycling is an important way to reduce pollution because natural resource extraction and processing make up half of all global greenhouse gas emissions that drive the climate crisis. Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water and minerals for new products.
Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia
EPA Region 8 has announced six selectees to receive more than $6.9 million through the SWIFR program. They include:
The Crow Tribe of Indians in Montana has been selected to receive $1,344,896 to expand materials management infrastructure, create efficient collection routes, monitor compliance and enforcement and create secure Transfer Sites for waste. These activities aim to increase recycling collection, increase data collection and provide household-level collection for rural communities.
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe in Montana has been selected to receive $1,023,748 to identify end-markets and expand materials management infrastructure. These objectives will be achieved by expanding existing recycling program, establishing five new recycling collection facilities, purchasing equipment and researching end-markers and community partnerships for previously unrecycled materials. These activities will encourage and expand recycling activities to reduce community blight and potential health and environmental contamination associated with illegal dump sites.
The Chippewa Cree Tribe in Montana has been selected to receive $1,075,483 to develop their Solid Waste Management Program by expanding infrastructure, strengthening data collection efforts and focusing on post-consumer materials management. These activities aim to improve recycled commodity markets, increase collection and reduce contamination.
The Blackfeet Tribe in Montana has been selected to receive $1,228,437 to develop their circular economy efforts through source reduction on the Blackfeet Reservation and outreach efforts on the Fort Belknap and Rocky Boy Reservations. This objective will be achieved by expanding recycling programs, identifying end-markets and market development and developing tire shredding and glass crushing programs. The project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, divert solid waste from landfills and host waste management trainings.
The Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes in Montana have been selected to receive $744,810 to expand materials management infrastructure and identify end-markets. These objectives will be achieved by increasing staffing, establishing a new recycling collection facility, purchasing equipment to expand the recycling programs and researching end-markets and community partnerships for previously unrecycled materials. The project will also establish an additional plastic recycling center and increase the capacity for cardboard recycling. These actions will encourage and expand recycling activities and reduce blight and contamination associated with illegal dump sites.
The Spirit Lake Reservation in North Dakota has been selected to receive $1.5 million to improve waste collection, recycling, transport and disposal programs. This objective will be achieved by acquiring materials management infrastructure equipment, hiring staff and identifying new recycling opportunities. The project aims to address waste minimization, increase recycling activities and mitigate climate change impacts.
To learn more about the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
Recycling Education and Outreach Grants
EPA has announced three selectees to receive nearly $2.3 million in Recycling Education and Outreach grants. They include:
We Don’t Waste of Denver, Colorado, has been selected to receive $809,665 to reduce food waste and methane emissions through a multifaceted approach including education resources and workshops for schools, consumers and businesses and social media campaigns and engagement opportunities for community members. All activities will support the prevention, reduction and diversion of food, and responsible composting and recycling.
Walking Mountains in Eagle County, Colorado, has been selected to receive $568,832 to amplify current recycling programs ensuring everyone in Eagle County understands where, why and how to recycle and has equitable access to do so. As Eagle County’s recycling efforts continue to grow, recycling outreach and education efforts in disadvantaged communities are a priority.
The Salt Lake City Corporation in Salt Lake City, Utah, has been selected to receive $954,687 to promote the role of reuse, reduce and recycle (R3) to achieve zero waste in the city by 2040. Methods include meaningful environmental justice engagement to inform a communication campaign supported by outreach and education activities, a Recycling Ambassador program and community recycling collection events for hard to recycle items, electronic waste and household hazardous waste.
To learn more about the Recycling Education and Outreach funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
America Recycles Day
Today marks both the 29th America Recycles Day, the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the second anniversary of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy. The National Recycling Strategy was the first in a series of EPA strategies devoted to building a circular economy – one that reduces material use, redesigns materials, products and services to be less resource intensive and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products.
Visit EPA’s Recycling website to learn ways to reduce, reuse and recycle.
Part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and a key pillar of Bidenomics, these grants will expand recycling infrastructure and education for waste management systems across the region.
“Today, on America Recycles Day, we are putting historic recycling investments into communities, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Two years ago today, the President signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and with it, unleashed unprecedented funding to enable Tribes and communities to update recycling and composting infrastructure, while also advancing education programs to increase recycling rates and reduce waste.”
“EPA’s Tribal and community partners have developed comprehensive plans to expand and improve waste management services for their residents and businesses,” said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. “From enhanced recycling and market development to new food waste recovery and composting programs, these investments will make visible differences in communities in Colorado, North Dakota, Montana and Utah.”
These grants reflect the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to tackling environmental justice and the climate crisis. As part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, 100% of the funding allocated in EPA’s SWIFR for Tribes grants and 74% of the funding allocated in the REO grants will benefit underserved and overburdened communities.
Increasing recycling is an important way to reduce pollution because natural resource extraction and processing make up half of all global greenhouse gas emissions that drive the climate crisis. Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water and minerals for new products.
Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia
EPA Region 8 has announced six selectees to receive more than $6.9 million through the SWIFR program. They include:
The Crow Tribe of Indians in Montana has been selected to receive $1,344,896 to expand materials management infrastructure, create efficient collection routes, monitor compliance and enforcement and create secure Transfer Sites for waste. These activities aim to increase recycling collection, increase data collection and provide household-level collection for rural communities.
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe in Montana has been selected to receive $1,023,748 to identify end-markets and expand materials management infrastructure. These objectives will be achieved by expanding existing recycling program, establishing five new recycling collection facilities, purchasing equipment and researching end-markers and community partnerships for previously unrecycled materials. These activities will encourage and expand recycling activities to reduce community blight and potential health and environmental contamination associated with illegal dump sites.
The Chippewa Cree Tribe in Montana has been selected to receive $1,075,483 to develop their Solid Waste Management Program by expanding infrastructure, strengthening data collection efforts and focusing on post-consumer materials management. These activities aim to improve recycled commodity markets, increase collection and reduce contamination.
The Blackfeet Tribe in Montana has been selected to receive $1,228,437 to develop their circular economy efforts through source reduction on the Blackfeet Reservation and outreach efforts on the Fort Belknap and Rocky Boy Reservations. This objective will be achieved by expanding recycling programs, identifying end-markets and market development and developing tire shredding and glass crushing programs. The project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, divert solid waste from landfills and host waste management trainings.
The Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes in Montana have been selected to receive $744,810 to expand materials management infrastructure and identify end-markets. These objectives will be achieved by increasing staffing, establishing a new recycling collection facility, purchasing equipment to expand the recycling programs and researching end-markets and community partnerships for previously unrecycled materials. The project will also establish an additional plastic recycling center and increase the capacity for cardboard recycling. These actions will encourage and expand recycling activities and reduce blight and contamination associated with illegal dump sites.
The Spirit Lake Reservation in North Dakota has been selected to receive $1.5 million to improve waste collection, recycling, transport and disposal programs. This objective will be achieved by acquiring materials management infrastructure equipment, hiring staff and identifying new recycling opportunities. The project aims to address waste minimization, increase recycling activities and mitigate climate change impacts.
To learn more about the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
Recycling Education and Outreach Grants
EPA has announced three selectees to receive nearly $2.3 million in Recycling Education and Outreach grants. They include:
We Don’t Waste of Denver, Colorado, has been selected to receive $809,665 to reduce food waste and methane emissions through a multifaceted approach including education resources and workshops for schools, consumers and businesses and social media campaigns and engagement opportunities for community members. All activities will support the prevention, reduction and diversion of food, and responsible composting and recycling.
Walking Mountains in Eagle County, Colorado, has been selected to receive $568,832 to amplify current recycling programs ensuring everyone in Eagle County understands where, why and how to recycle and has equitable access to do so. As Eagle County’s recycling efforts continue to grow, recycling outreach and education efforts in disadvantaged communities are a priority.
The Salt Lake City Corporation in Salt Lake City, Utah, has been selected to receive $954,687 to promote the role of reuse, reduce and recycle (R3) to achieve zero waste in the city by 2040. Methods include meaningful environmental justice engagement to inform a communication campaign supported by outreach and education activities, a Recycling Ambassador program and community recycling collection events for hard to recycle items, electronic waste and household hazardous waste.
To learn more about the Recycling Education and Outreach funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
America Recycles Day
Today marks both the 29th America Recycles Day, the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the second anniversary of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy. The National Recycling Strategy was the first in a series of EPA strategies devoted to building a circular economy – one that reduces material use, redesigns materials, products and services to be less resource intensive and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products.
Visit EPA’s Recycling website to learn ways to reduce, reuse and recycle.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces More than $5.4 million in EPA Region 4 for Tribal Recycling Infrastructure Projects and Recycling Education and Outreach Grants as Part of America Recycles Day
ATLANTA (Nov. 15, 2023) – Today, in conjunction with America Recycles Day, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the selection of two selectees to receive over $1.7 million in Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia, and three selectees to receive over $3.6 million in Recycling Education and Outreach grants. These grants, which are part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, a key pillar of Bidenomics, will expand recycling infrastructure and education for waste management systems across the region.
“Today, on America Recycles Day, we are putting historic recycling investments into communities, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Two years ago today, the President signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and with it, unleashed unprecedented funding to enable Tribes and communities to update recycling and composting infrastructure, while also advancing education programs to increase recycling rates and reduce waste.”
“This historic investment in the Southeast area supports improvements to waste management systems,” said Acting EPA Region 4 Administrator Jeanneane Gettle. The improvements allow resources to be used more efficiently and simultaneously reduce impacts on the climate.”
“Tribal Nations want to do their part to reduce the waste that ends up polluting communities and harming human health. Unfortunately, many lack access to proper recycling and composting programs — oftentimes through no fault of their own,” said Senator Carper (DE), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is helping more Tribal communities invest in their recycling infrastructure and improve recycling rates across Indian Country. That’s something worth celebrating this America Recycles Day!”
These recycling grants will help tackle consumer confusion and outdated recycling infrastructure, the largest barriers to proper recycling. Thanks to President Biden’s historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed two years ago today, EPA was provided the largest recycling investment in 30 years that is funding these two new programs.
These grants reflect the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to tackling environmental justice and the climate crisis. Many communities with environmental justice concerns carry a disproportionate environmental and human health burden from waste disposal. As part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, 100% of the funding allocated in EPA’s SWIFR for Tribes grants and 74% of the funding allocated in the REO grants will benefit underserved and overburdened communities. Increasing recycling is also an important way to reduce pollution because natural resource extraction and processing make up half of all global greenhouse gas emissions that drive the climate crisis. Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water, and minerals for new products.
Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia
The SWIFR grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia will enable Tribes to make improvements to their recycling and waste management systems, meeting Congress’ goal to create a stronger, more resilient, and cost-effective U.S. municipal solid waste recycling system. EPA Region 4 has announced the selection of two selectees to receive over $1.7 million through the program. They include:
Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians has been selected to receive $941,600. The funding for this project will be used to develop and implement methods of increasing post-consumer material collection, processing, and transporting to end-markets. The MBCI also intends to construct a biodiesel manufacturing facility with the intent to recapture 'waste' cooking oil from Tribal members, schools, and casinos to process into biodiesel.
Poarch Band of Creek Indians has been selected to receive $787,397. The funding for this project will be used to conduct a feasibility study on a proposed operation expansion, implementing upgrades to current facilities and equipment, and conducting outreach on the recycling program. These tasks will be followed by an analysis of the feasibility study, resulting in expanded recycling infrastructure, glass recycling, shredding services, and used tire collection/recycling.
To learn more about the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
Recycling Education and Outreach Grants
The Recycling Education and Outreach grant projects will help inform the public about local recycling and composting programs and focus on increasing collection rates and decreasing contamination of recycling streams across the nation. EPA has announced two selectees to receive over $3.6 million in Recycling Education and Outreach grants. They include:
EdVenture, Inc., has been selected to receive $1,746,339. The funding for this project will be used to create an exhibit of dinosaurs made from recycled and repurposed materials with a storyline and messaging that will educate families and children about better recycling habits, including reusing, remanufacturing, and even working toward a circular economy.
Osceola County Board of County Commissioners has been selected to receive $783,756. The funding for this project will implement an education and outreach program that will utilize digital media and in-person events to reach Osceola residents about the importance and “how-to” of responsible recycling in the community. The project includes a glass pulverizer demonstration to help residents think differently about recycling.
World Wildlife Fund has been selected to receive $1,164,792. The funding for this project will work with Title 1 school districts in Atlanta, Baltimore, Memphis, and Nashville to promote food waste reduction and recycling. It will conduct food waste audits in schools, implement food waste reduction measures and conduct policy advocacy.
To learn more about the Recycling Education and Outreach funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
America Recycles Day
Today marks the 29th America Recycles Day, the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the second anniversary of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy. The National Recycling Strategy was the first in a series of EPA strategies devoted to building a circular economy – one that reduces material use, redesigns materials, products, and services to be less resource intensive, and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products.
To build upon the goals of the recycling strategy, EPA released the Draft National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution for public comment in April. The Draft Strategy outlines steps to reduce pollution during production, improve management of plastic materials throughout product lifecycles, and encourage actions to keep plastics out of national waterways and the environment. Future strategies will address food waste and electronics.
EPA also recently announced over $105 million for the selectees of the historic SWIFR grants for states and communities. These improvements will support a circular economy and help lower greenhouse gas emissions as more efficient waste management systems are key to reducing energy consumption and the need for raw materials, while rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, powered by well-paying jobs that don’t require four-year degrees.
Visit EPA’s website to learn more ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
EPA offers many free, online resources, including:
Model Recycling Toolkit.
Composting Food Scraps in Your Community: A Social Marketing Toolkit.
Wasted Food Scale: Updated Recommendations.
Standardized Terms for Materials Accepted by Municipal Recycling Programs.
Creating Messages that Drive Behavior Change.
Recycling Infrastructure and Market Opportunities Map.
Learn more about America Recycles Day.
“Today, on America Recycles Day, we are putting historic recycling investments into communities, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Two years ago today, the President signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and with it, unleashed unprecedented funding to enable Tribes and communities to update recycling and composting infrastructure, while also advancing education programs to increase recycling rates and reduce waste.”
“This historic investment in the Southeast area supports improvements to waste management systems,” said Acting EPA Region 4 Administrator Jeanneane Gettle. The improvements allow resources to be used more efficiently and simultaneously reduce impacts on the climate.”
“Tribal Nations want to do their part to reduce the waste that ends up polluting communities and harming human health. Unfortunately, many lack access to proper recycling and composting programs — oftentimes through no fault of their own,” said Senator Carper (DE), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is helping more Tribal communities invest in their recycling infrastructure and improve recycling rates across Indian Country. That’s something worth celebrating this America Recycles Day!”
These recycling grants will help tackle consumer confusion and outdated recycling infrastructure, the largest barriers to proper recycling. Thanks to President Biden’s historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed two years ago today, EPA was provided the largest recycling investment in 30 years that is funding these two new programs.
These grants reflect the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to tackling environmental justice and the climate crisis. Many communities with environmental justice concerns carry a disproportionate environmental and human health burden from waste disposal. As part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, 100% of the funding allocated in EPA’s SWIFR for Tribes grants and 74% of the funding allocated in the REO grants will benefit underserved and overburdened communities. Increasing recycling is also an important way to reduce pollution because natural resource extraction and processing make up half of all global greenhouse gas emissions that drive the climate crisis. Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water, and minerals for new products.
Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia
The SWIFR grants for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia will enable Tribes to make improvements to their recycling and waste management systems, meeting Congress’ goal to create a stronger, more resilient, and cost-effective U.S. municipal solid waste recycling system. EPA Region 4 has announced the selection of two selectees to receive over $1.7 million through the program. They include:
Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians has been selected to receive $941,600. The funding for this project will be used to develop and implement methods of increasing post-consumer material collection, processing, and transporting to end-markets. The MBCI also intends to construct a biodiesel manufacturing facility with the intent to recapture 'waste' cooking oil from Tribal members, schools, and casinos to process into biodiesel.
Poarch Band of Creek Indians has been selected to receive $787,397. The funding for this project will be used to conduct a feasibility study on a proposed operation expansion, implementing upgrades to current facilities and equipment, and conducting outreach on the recycling program. These tasks will be followed by an analysis of the feasibility study, resulting in expanded recycling infrastructure, glass recycling, shredding services, and used tire collection/recycling.
To learn more about the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
Recycling Education and Outreach Grants
The Recycling Education and Outreach grant projects will help inform the public about local recycling and composting programs and focus on increasing collection rates and decreasing contamination of recycling streams across the nation. EPA has announced two selectees to receive over $3.6 million in Recycling Education and Outreach grants. They include:
EdVenture, Inc., has been selected to receive $1,746,339. The funding for this project will be used to create an exhibit of dinosaurs made from recycled and repurposed materials with a storyline and messaging that will educate families and children about better recycling habits, including reusing, remanufacturing, and even working toward a circular economy.
Osceola County Board of County Commissioners has been selected to receive $783,756. The funding for this project will implement an education and outreach program that will utilize digital media and in-person events to reach Osceola residents about the importance and “how-to” of responsible recycling in the community. The project includes a glass pulverizer demonstration to help residents think differently about recycling.
World Wildlife Fund has been selected to receive $1,164,792. The funding for this project will work with Title 1 school districts in Atlanta, Baltimore, Memphis, and Nashville to promote food waste reduction and recycling. It will conduct food waste audits in schools, implement food waste reduction measures and conduct policy advocacy.
To learn more about the Recycling Education and Outreach funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
America Recycles Day
Today marks the 29th America Recycles Day, the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the second anniversary of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy. The National Recycling Strategy was the first in a series of EPA strategies devoted to building a circular economy – one that reduces material use, redesigns materials, products, and services to be less resource intensive, and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products.
To build upon the goals of the recycling strategy, EPA released the Draft National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution for public comment in April. The Draft Strategy outlines steps to reduce pollution during production, improve management of plastic materials throughout product lifecycles, and encourage actions to keep plastics out of national waterways and the environment. Future strategies will address food waste and electronics.
EPA also recently announced over $105 million for the selectees of the historic SWIFR grants for states and communities. These improvements will support a circular economy and help lower greenhouse gas emissions as more efficient waste management systems are key to reducing energy consumption and the need for raw materials, while rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, powered by well-paying jobs that don’t require four-year degrees.
Visit EPA’s website to learn more ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
EPA offers many free, online resources, including:
Model Recycling Toolkit.
Composting Food Scraps in Your Community: A Social Marketing Toolkit.
Wasted Food Scale: Updated Recommendations.
Standardized Terms for Materials Accepted by Municipal Recycling Programs.
Creating Messages that Drive Behavior Change.
Recycling Infrastructure and Market Opportunities Map.
Learn more about America Recycles Day.