The Department of Environmental Protection announced it is now accepting applications for 2008 Composting Infrastructure Development Grants until July 18.

Under the program, for-profit business entities, whether established or start-up, or incorporated nonprofit organizations operating a composting facility are eligible to receive grants to increase the quantity of yard and/or food wastes collected and processed.

$400,000 is available for this initiative and DEP will award grants of up to $100,000 to any one project.

Additional consideration will be given to applications that are developed in consultation with the Pennsylvania Recycling Markets Center.

The municipal waste stream in Pennsylvania consists of more than 30 percent organic materials that could be recycled and diverted from the waste stream and managed by composting.

For applications and more information, visit the DEP Composting webpage.

5/9/2008