Recycling Grants Reward Performance in 267 Communities

With the state’s investment of $5.5 million, 267 municipal recycling programs are expanding across Pennsylvania, according to Gov. Edward G. Rendell.

Rendell says that as more reusable materials are diverted from landfills, Pennsylvanians are helping to converse energy and natural resources, protect the environment and create new economic opportunities in manufacturing.

Recycling performance grants reward communities based on the amount of recyclable materials collected. More cans, jars, newspapers and other materials collected mean larger grants for the recycling program and more materials for manufacturers.

“When Pennsylvania recycles, our economy and environment win,” Rendell says. Municipalities across the commonwealth know this and have taken a leading role by making it easier for residents to recycle.”

He also says the investment Pennsylvania makes will help local governments expand their programs so even more material stays out of landfills.

Pennsylvania is home to more than 3,200 recycling and re-use businesses and organizations that generate more than $18 billion in gross annual sales and provide paychecks totaling $2.9 billion to more than 81,000 employees.

Pennsylvania’s recycling efforts save energy, reduce air pollution and limit the need for virgin materials in manufacturing. “These investments are a strong incentive for municipalities to recycle,” says Environmental Protection Secretary Kathleen A. McGinty. “And as these programs continue to grow, communities and consumers will see even more benefits in the form of a cleaner environment, financial savings and a better quality of life.”

DEP has approved 552 of the 800 performance grant applications received for calendar year 2005. The remaining applications are being reviewed and additional grant rewards may be announced in the coming months.

For more information visit www.depweb.state.pa.us, keyword: Recycling Grants.