The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently announced $40 million in grants to fund recycling infrastructure projects for Tribes and intertribal consortia.
According to a Jan. 4 news release, EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan said the agency is focused on working with Tribal nations to safeguard public health and the environment in Tribal areas.
“We know that our work is strongest and most effective when it’s informed by people’s lived experiences, and we are grateful for the strong participation from Tribes during our outreach,” Regan said in the EPA news release. “Our priority is helping Tribal nations improve their recycling efforts, which is critical given that half of all greenhouse gas emissions come from the creation and production of materials.”
According to the EPA release, the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling program was financed by President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan infrastructure Law, and a call for applications was made to generate interest among Tribes and intertribal consortia.
Moreover, the SWIFTER program will provide funding for projects to create new recycling capacity for Tribes and boost access to recycling, composting and other opportunities, the release reported.
Regan added that while gains have been made, more can be done to improve recycling and protect the environment for everyone, according to the release.
"EPA is committed to working collaboratively with Tribal nations to protect public health and the environment in Indian Country," Regan said in the release.
