About: Select stakeholders are invited to apply for an opportunity to bring a “Recycling Roundup” to their communities. Tennessee Environmental Council (TEC) – a non-profit organization –  is coordinating 15 of these roundups across the state over the next three years, focusing on underserved communities. They intend to make recycling more accessible and reduce illegal dumping, litter, and landfill use.

Community leaders must use TEC’s online application form to be considered for one of these free events. There is no cost to apply. These roundups will accept household items like electronics, tires, scrap metal, Styrofoam, mattresses, and more – offering a convenient recycling solution at no cost to approved communities.

This program is made possible by an environmental justice grant from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded to TEC. Since 2021, TEC has recycled more than 480,000 pounds of materials in Roundups across Tennessee. TEC was recently awarded the 2024 Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Award in recognition of its Recycling Roundup program.

Deadline to Apply: November 8, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT

Who May Apply: Local, state, and federal elected officials, solid waste directors, and Keep Tennessee Beautiful affiliates will receive an email with application information. Community residents interested in this program are encouraged to contact their local elected officials to apply on their behalf.

For More Info: Contact Ginger Reasonover via email at: ginger@tectn.org or visit tectn.org/recyclingroundup

When Will Selected Communities be Announced: The first round of selections will be announced in January 2025.

When Will the Roundups Take Place: Spring 2025 through Spring 2027