EPA has announced more than $4.5 million to expand recycling infrastructure and waste management systems across Minnesota. EPA has selected the City of Minneapolis to receive a $4 million grant under the newly created Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling funding opportunity. In addition, the agency is making available approximately $511,502to improve solid waste management planning, data collection and implementation of plans. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this investment is a part of EPA’s largest recycling investment in 30 years.
The grants support the implementation of EPA’s National Recycling Strategy to build an economy devoted to keeping materials, products, and services in circulation for as long as possible –what’s known as a “circular economy.” Said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan, “By investing in better recycling, EPA is deploying resources to provide recycling services across the country, including in disadvantaged communities, while preventing waste that contributes to the climate crisis, supporting local economies and creating good-paying jobs.”
“Improving how we manage our waste is critical if we want to ensure a clean environment for ourselves and future generations,” said Sen. Tina Smith. “These investments will help redevelop the residential waste disposal and resource recovery site in Minneapolis, which will help the city safely recover more recyclable and reusable materials.”
“Improving recycling systems is a huge area of opportunity for communities across America,” said Rep. Betty McCollum. “Implementing the National Recycling Strategy—which I supported through the Appropriations Committee in past Congresses—will help reduce pollution and build a sustainable circular economy. I’m proud that we’re delivering this Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to advance recycling plans across Minnesota.”
“With the help of this $4 million grant, we will bring new, critical City services closer to home for many Northside and Northeast residents,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “The North Transfer Station will help Minneapolis be a cleaner and more sustainable city – allowing us to reach our zero-waste goals and divert items like clothing, excess recycling, mattresses, and home construction debris out of landfills.”
“We are committed to making recycling and composting as convenient as possible for residents around Minnesota, including the Twin Cities Metro area, where we need more work to reach our goal of a 75% recycling rate,” said Kirk Koudelka, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency assistant commissioner for land policy and strategic initiatives. “This requires collaboration among local governments, residents, and businesses. Federal grant funding plays an important role in reducing the amount of wasted food and trash sent to landfills each year and protecting our air, land, and water.”