The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) is now accepting applications for Recycling and Waste Reduction Grants, as well as Recycling Rebates. The application period began July 1, 2016 and applications are due October 3, 2016.

“Recycling directly impacts manufacturers in Tennessee who reuse materials collected in their manufacturing process,” said TDEC Commissioner Bob Martineau. “The manufacturing industry is an essential element of our state’s economy, and we’re happy to help them reach their financial goals while protecting our environment. It’s a win-win.”

There are three separate offerings: Recycling Equipment Grants, Used Oil Grants and Recycling Rebates. TDEC is contacting local communities about the grant availability and will host workshops during the month of July to help communities understand the application process.

The grant programs were authorized by the Solid Waste Management Act of 1991 and funded by the Tennessee Solid Waste Management Fund. The fund, which is administered by the TDEC, receives its revenues from a state surcharge on each ton of municipal solid waste disposed in landfills and from a fee collected from new tires sold in Tennessee. The used oil grants are authorized by the Used Oil Collection Act and funded by the Used Oil Collection Fund. The Used Oil Collection Fund receives its revenues from a $0.02 fee on each quart of oil sold at wholesale.

The application deadline for the Used Oil, Recycling Equipment, and Recycling Rebate (Rebate is by invitation only) is 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 3 2016. For more information or to obtain applications, please call Loretta Harrington at (615) 532-0086 or via email at Solid.Waste@tn.gov. For information about the grants, visit http://www.tn.gov/environment/article/sw-mm-grants-administration.