The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has awarded two grants totaling $60,000 to the city of Chicago for recycling projects. The money will be used to boost recycling in multi-unit residential buildings and in Chicago sports stadiums. The money comes from EPA’s national Resource Conservation Challenge.
"The goal of EPA's Resource Conservation Challenge is to change the way Americans think about waste," said Region 5 Administrator Mary Gade. "The Chicago projects will increase recycling opportunities throughout the city, giving everyone a chance to minimize what we throw away."
The Chicago Multi-Unit Recycling Study Project is receiving $40,000 to conduct waste and recycling audits in several multi-unit residential buildings. Waste and recycling rates as well as barriers to recycling will be studied. The pilot project will result in a best management practices tool and resource kit to be distributed to building managers throughout the city.
The Chicago Stadium Recycling Initiative will receive $20,000 to fund a task force of stadium managers from large Chicago venues such as Soldier Field, UIC Pavilion, United Center, U.S. Cellular and Wrigley fields. They will establish environmental performance goals and conduct waste and recycling audits leading to future increases in recycling and waste diversion. This project is especially important in Chicago's bid to host the 2016 Olympic games.