Today, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) announced the allocation of $1.3 million in grants aimed at enhancing the renovation and recycling efforts at solid waste management convenience centers, as well as improving the collection of used automobile oil. These grant initiatives are designed to support and encourage local municipalities in their efforts to meet recycling and solid waste management goals. By upgrading infrastructure and providing more accessible options for residents, local governments can effectively reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.
The responsibility for managing this funding falls under the Division of Solid Waste Management Funding Program at TDEC. Counties across Tennessee that are seeking financial assistance to upgrade existing facilities, establish new convenience centers in areas that lack such services, or replace outdated green boxes are eligible to apply for these convenience center grants. Additionally, the grants for used automotive oil collection focus on creating new public do-it-yourself sites in underserved communities or enhancing current facilities to promote the recycling of used oil and raise awareness about its importance.
Among the recipients of these grants is Lawrence County, which is one of several counties in Tennessee selected to benefit from this funding initiative. This support is expected to significantly bolster local recycling efforts and improve waste management practices throughout the state.