Thanks to what is the largest recycling investment in three decades, $40 million in federal funds through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will be used for recycling infrastructure projects for Tribes and Intertribal coalitions.
According to a Jan. 4 news release by the Environmental Protection Agency, the BIL has invested $375 million for new programs focused on recycling, reuse and decreasing waste.
“EPA is committed to working collaboratively with Tribal nations to protect public health and the environment in Indian country,” EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan said in the release. “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.
A request for applications was filled out by the EPA in an effort to to gauge interest from Tribes for the funding in the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling grant program, the release reported. This is the third round of funds distributed through the new program.
"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," Regan added, according to the release. "And, while we have made great strides over time, we can do much more to improve the state of recycling and protect our planet for all.”
This grant is for federally recognized Tribes, Alaskan Native Villages and Intertribal coalitions. Projects include things like developing and updating plans, planning and building facilities, buying or leasing recycling equipment, creating activities for increasing collection and more, the release reported.
