The Department of Environmental Protection is now accepting applications for the 2008 Recycling Markets Infrastructure Development Grant Program.

Applications are due November 3.

This program provides reimbursement for equipment costs associated with increasing the use of recycled content in products by for-profit business entities, whether established or start-up, or incorporated nonprofit organizations located and operating in this Commonwealth as a result of a grant award under this program.

The success of recycling programs is directly related to demand for recyclable goods. Strong, profitable, recycling-based businesses are good for the environment and the economy in this Commonwealth. This grant aims to build strong markets for recycled materials in this Commonwealth by assisting businesses and nonprofit organizations with increasing their use of recyclable materials in the production of finished products.

One million dollars is available for this initiative. The Department will award grants of up to $500,000 to any one project. Additional consideration will be given to applications that are developed in consultation with the Pennsylvania Recycling Markets Center.

DEP said applications for the 2008 Program will be posted on its Recycling Market Development webpage. Applications may also be obtained by contacting Charles Scheidler, Bureau of Waste Management, by sending email to: cscheidler@state.pa.us or calling 717-787-7382.

9/12/2008