The Seneca Nation is one of two New York Native American nations getting money from the US Environmental Protection Agency
The Seneca Nation will receive nearly $457,888 to establish partnerships with community-based organizations, expand food waste collection, and establish waste reuse opportunities. The money comes in the form of Solid Waste for Recycling grants to expand recycling infrastructure and education for waste management. This grant will support the creation of four to five jobs and pay the labor needed for food scrap pick up, equipment and supplies.
Many communities with environmental justice concerns carry a disproportionate environmental and human health burden from waste management.
“These grants will support the Indian Nations’ efforts to advance environmentally sound waste management and infrastructure,” said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “These grants help meet a critical need for these nations and support pathways in waste reduction and promote recycling.”
The other group receiving funding is the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe.
The funding announcement came on Thursday, America Recycles Day and the two-year anniversary of President Joe Biden signing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
“Today, on America Recycles Day, we are putting historic recycling investments into communities, made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan.
“Two years ago today, the President signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and with it, unleashed unprecedented funding to enable Tribes and communities to update recycling and composting infrastructure, while also advancing education programs to increase recycling rates and reduce waste.”
To learn more about the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia funding, please visit: EPA’s Recipients and Selectees webpage.
