The state of Massachusetts has awarded more than $2.9 million in Sustainable Materials Recovery Program (SMRP) grants to 262 municipalities and regional solid waste districts. The grants aim to help communities across the state maximize their organics recycling and waste reduction programs.

Under SMRP, which was created under the Green Communities Act and is administered by Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), 219 communities qualified for the Recycling Dividends Program (RDP) and will receive payments ranging from $2,100 to $97,500 for a total of $2.93 million statewide, Cape Cod Today reports. The RDP recognizes municipalities that have implemented policies and programs proven to maximize materials reuse and recycling, as well as waste reduction.

Communities that earn RDP payments must reinvest the funds in their recycling programs for things such as new recycling bins or carts, public education and outreach campaigns, collection of hard-to-recycle items and the establishment of recycling programs in schools, municipal buildings and other public spaces, the report notes.

Cape Cod Today has more:

Aiming to strengthen recycling programs across Massachusetts, the Baker-Polito Administration today awarded more than $2.9 million to 262 municipalities and regional solid waste districts for Sustainable Materials Recovery Program (SMRP) grants that will help communities maximize their recycling, composting and waste reduction programs.

“Some of the most important environmental protection work happens every day in communities across the Commonwealth,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “With this assistance from the Sustainable Materials Recovery Program, local officials, residents and small business owners can continue the important work of protecting neighborhoods and natural resources.”

“Through the Sustainable Materials Recovery Program, our Administration continues to partner with cities, towns and regional organizations to increase recycling and decrease the disposal of valuable materials,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “These grants provide the funding necessary for communities to tailor their individual recycling programs to the needs of their residents.”

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