Recycling Grant 2024

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Recycling Unit is offering grants to support recycling infrastructure projects. EGLE's mission is to protect Michigan’s environment and public health by managing air, water, land, and energy resources, with a focus on addressing climate change, diversity, equity, and inclusion. This grant program aligns with EGLE's broader mission by directly contributing to environmental protection through improved waste management and resource recovery, thereby supporting a healthier and more sustainable Michigan. The target beneficiaries for these grants include a wide range of Michigan-based entities, such as non-profit organizations, tribal governments, school districts, universities/colleges, local health departments, regional planning agencies, cities, villages, townships, charter townships, counties, municipal solid waste authorities, and resource recovery authorities. The impact goals are to increase access to recycling services and grow the statewide recycling rate, ultimately contributing to Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s climate priorities. This program aims to achieve measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and benefit environmental justice communities or underserved and vulnerable populations. The program priorities include supporting initiatives with the largest projected increases in processing or collection capacity volume, access, and participation. Preference is given to programs with sustainable funding mechanisms, robust and continuing education programs, and applicants demonstrating strong collaboration and partnerships with other groups and organizations. Additionally, projects that leverage concurrent funding from other sources, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or various foundations and businesses, are highly valued. Projects that directly support Governor Whitmer’s climate change priorities through measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are also a key focus. Expected outcomes include a higher statewide recycling rate, increased access to recycling services across Michigan, and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The measurable results will be evaluated by the projected increases in processing or collection capacity volume, participation rates, and the quantifiable environmental benefits, especially in environmental justice communities. The maximum funding request is $1 million, with a minimum of $5,000, for eligible projects such as the transition to recycling carts, public space recycling containers, new or improved processing infrastructure, school and multifamily recycling projects, and collection vehicles. Ineligible projects include organics/food waste, household hazardous waste, electronic waste, scrap tire recycling, and one-day collection events, which further refines the program's strategic priorities.