New York offers grants for e-scrap recycling projects

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has announced that $3 million in grants have been made available through the state’s Environmental Protection Fund to assist municipalities in the state with recent, unexpected costs of collection and recycling of eligible electronics.

By state law, consumers in New York are required to recycle electronics, such as computers, keyboards, televisions and small electronic equipment, in an environmentally responsible manner. The grants, part of the 2017 fiscal year state budget’s $300 million investment in the Environmental Protection Fund, will mitigate the growing unexpected financial costs so that municipalities can recycle electronics efficiently and sustainably.

In a news release announcing the availability of the grant money, Cuomo says, “New York state is a leader in protecting the environment and promoting sustainability, and the responsible recycling of electronic waste is an essential component of these efforts. This funding will provide resources across the state to ensure cleaner communities for all.”

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos says, "Gov. Cuomo recognizes the importance of New York’s e-waste recycling laws to help protect our environment. The governor also recognizes the challenges local governments face in addressing e-waste in their communities. This critical EPF funding will provide municipalities the support and flexibility they need to address e-waste.”

Sen.Tom O'Mara, chairman of the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee, notes, "This year's action to strengthen and fully fund the Environmental Protection Fund is one of the most important actions we've ever taken in New York government for the benefit of local economies, environments and taxpayers.”

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Household Hazardous Waste State Assistance Program will administer the grants. Municipalities will be eligible for reimbursement of up to 50 percent of eligible expenses incurred for collection and recycling of e-scrap between April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2017. Application materials, guidance documents and important information for Electronic Waste Assistance Grants are available on the Department of Environmental Conservation website. The Department of Environmental Conservation will accept applications for funding from Oct. 3-31, 2016.