The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced a grant opportunity of approximately $1.25 million aimed at supporting municipalities in establishing or expanding food scraps recycling programs. This Municipal Food Scraps Recycling Initiatives program offers funding for projects that increase food scraps recycling, supporting DEC’s ongoing efforts to reduce organic waste and encourage sustainable waste management practices. Funding for this program is drawn from New York’s Environmental Protection Fund, with the goal of helping communities reduce landfill contributions and promote environmental health through enhanced recycling infrastructure.

Eligible applicants are New York State municipalities, which, under this grant, include counties, cities, towns, villages, local public authorities, public benefit corporations, school and improvement districts, supervisory districts, and Native American tribes or Nations residing in the state. Projects qualifying for this funding include initiatives that increase residential food scraps recycling, as well as the creation or expansion of recycling programs and facilities specifically designed for food scraps. Projects may combine multiple strategies to improve food scraps management and engage residents in sustainable recycling practices.

DEC will cover up to 75% of the eligible project costs, with applicants required to provide the remaining 25% as matching funds. The types of match funds that qualify, as well as additional project costs that may be covered, are detailed in the Request for Applications (RFA). This matching requirement enables municipalities to leverage state funds to further local sustainability initiatives and environmental efforts.

Applications will be accepted exclusively through New York’s Statewide Financial System (SFS) on a first-come, first-served basis from October 1, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. EST until January 31, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. EST, or until funds are fully allocated. Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit their applications promptly, as funds may be exhausted before the final deadline. To locate and apply for this grant in SFS, applicants should search for the grant under “Municipal Food Scraps Recycling Grants - 2024” or Event ID FSR2024.

An informational webinar is scheduled for November 13, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. EST, providing applicants with a chance to learn more about the program requirements and application process. Ongoing questions regarding the RFA will be addressed in a Q&A document updated weekly on the DEC website. Applicants are encouraged to review this document for the latest information and to reach out to DEC at OrganicsGrants@dec.ny.gov with further inquiries.

This funding program reflects New York’s commitment to supporting sustainable waste management practices in local communities, providing resources to advance food scraps recycling infrastructure. The full RFA and additional program information are accessible through the DEC’s Organics Management Funding Opportunities webpage, where applicants can obtain guidance on eligibility, application requirements, and allowable project costs.