~ Submitted by Liz Antanavica, Bedford Refuse & Recycling Administrator
Bedford has been awarded $7,200 as part of the 2022 Sustainable Materials Recovery Program (SMRP), a grant program administered by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and created under the Green Communities Act.
The Baker-Polito Administration recently announced the award of $4.2 Million to Massachusetts cities and towns for this program.
Grant funds allocated reward municipalities for recycling, composting, and reuse initiatives. Funds awarded must be reinvested in programs that maximize waste reduction initiatives. This grant will help fund Bedford’s investment in these programs.
According to MassDEP, “Recycling programs play a vital role in limiting our dependence on landfills and incinerators, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting economic activity in the Commonwealth. Recycling Dividend Program (RDP) funds foster investment in local programs including recycling equipment, organics diversion, outreach and education, pilot programs, school recycling, toxics reduction, and more.”
Bedford has received Recycling Dividends funds every year since the program began in 2014. Funds have been used to support the purchase of equipment for the permanent scrap metal recycling drop off at the Compost & Recycling Center on Carlisle Road, costs associated with managing difficult materials such as the latex paint collection at the October Special Collection event, and the distribution of composting starter kits for residents subscribed to curbside food waste collection services.
For further information, contact Bedford Refuse & Recycling Administrator Liz Antanavica at 781-275-7605, ext. 4261.
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