Arizona Recycling Grant Program returns

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has brought back its Recycling Grant Program after a decadelong hiatus. The department is making over $1 million in funding available in the effort to strengthen recycling initiatives across the state.

“The Recycling Grant Program is more than just funding; it’s an opportunity for every corner of our great state,” ADEQ Cabinet Executive Officer Karen Peters says in a news release. “Many Arizona communities, especially those in rural areas, have faced barriers in accessing recycling resources. This grant demonstrates ADEQ’s dedication to closing those gaps and ensuring everyone has access to the tools, education and technology needed to promote a sustainable future.”

According to ADEQ, which has offices in Phoenix and Tucson, the grant funding is available to be awarded in three main categories, including:

• Waste Reduction Assistance (WRA): Funds initiatives such as curbside recycling and household hazardous waste collections to majorly curb the solid waste stream.
• Waste Reduction Initiative Through Education (WRITE): Funds education efforts to teach Arizonans about proper disposal of solid waste, as well as recycling campaigns and outreach programs to encourage participation in recycling.
• Recycling Research and Development (RR&D): Funds development of new tools, products and information to assist in diverting material from landfills by using that material to create new products or by improving old technologies.

The ADEQ says grant application materials can be found at www.azdeq.gov/recyclinggrants. Completed applications are due by 3 p.m. Dec. 1.

“This is a golden opportunity for political subdivisions of the state of Arizona, private enterprises, local nonprofits and Arizona’s tribal governments to enhance their recycling endeavors,” ADEQ Recycling Coordinator J.B. Shaw says. “We’re collectively paving a path to take the burden off our landfills and work towards a more sustainable future.”

The department adds that the return of the grant program provides an opportunity for small communities to create and enhance existing recycling efforts, as well as helps larger communities’ ongoing efforts to minimize landfill waste. The ADEQ says it encourages all organizations, counties, cities, towns, tribal governments, nonprofit organizations and private businesses with innovative recycling and circular economy ideas to apply for funding.