| Pennsylvania awards $3 million in municipal recycling grants
More than 100 municipal recycling programs across the state of Pennsylvania
will be able to expand with the help of nearly $3 million in state investments
announced by Governor Edward G. Rendell. 
“These recycling investments will continue helping local governments
improve their collection programs so more reusable materials are delivered
to Pennsylvania manufacturers instead of landfills,” Governor Rendell
said. “By avoiding the additional energy needed to produce virgin raw
materials for manufacturing, we are reducing our energy dependence and
cutting greenhouse gas emissions.”
The commonwealth’s commitment to recycling has led to record collection
levels and more efficient programs. In 2005, Pennsylvanians recycled a record
4.86 million tons of municipal waste, saving consumers and industries nearly
$263 million in disposal costs and providing businesses with materials valued
at $577 million.
The grants awarded reflect 2005 collections.
Pennsylvania’s recycling efforts save energy, reduce air pollution
and limit the need for virgin materials in manufacturing. The materials recycled
in Pennsylvania during 2005 saved almost 98 trillion British thermal units
of energy, equivalent to the output of three large, coal-fired power plants.
Recycling performance grants reward communities based on
the amount of recyclable materials collected. More cans, bottles, newspapers
and other materials collected mean larger grants for the recycling programs
and more materials for manufacturers.
DEP has approved 658 of the 800 performance grant applications
received for calendar year 2005 recycling. The remaining applications are
being reviewed and additional grant awards may be announced in the coming
months.
For a list of the recipients, visit www.depweb.state.pa.us with keywords: Recycling Grants. |
