Grants will support businesses, nonprofits, and institutions investing in advanced recycling equipment to reduce waste.

In celebration of Earth Month, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has announced the launch of the Waste Reduction Innovation Grant (WRIG) program. The new initiative, designed to fund waste reduction projects across the state, will provide financial support to both new and existing businesses, nonprofits, and institutions looking to invest in advanced recycling technology and equipment.

"The Waste Reduction Innovation Grant is designed to drive forward-thinking waste management solutions," said MassDEP Commissioner Bonnie Heiple. "Not only does managing solid waste strain municipal budgets, but waste emits harmful methane emissions as it sits in a landfill. Reducing waste is a critical piece of our strategy to address climate change and improve air quality in our environmental justice communities."

The WRIG program aligns with the goals established by the state’s 2030 Solid Waste Master Plan, which aims to reduce waste by 30% by 2030 and 90% by 2050. These ambitious targets are part of Massachusetts’ broader effort to better manage the state’s solid waste by reducing, reusing, and recycling materials, as well as enhancing disposal methods.

MassDEP reports that the WRIG program will focus on innovation across key areas of the waste stream and provide funding for two categories of projects: startup or pilot projects and innovative capital investments. The program is targeting innovative solutions for recycling and waste reduction, including the recycling of bulky household items like furniture and plastics, glass from material recovery facilities, and even nonvehicle lithium batteries.

“Partnering with the private sector is critical to managing our waste and improving our efforts to reduce waste, reuse, and recycle,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “This key investment will foster continued growth in our waste reduction industry, creating new jobs and reducing the burden on an already strained waste stream.”

For startup or pilot projects, MassDEP plans to award grants ranging from $50,000 to $100,000. Meanwhile, larger capital investments, including projects focused on recycling construction materials or textile sorting, will be eligible for funding ranging from $500,000 to $2 million. Startup or pilot projects will require a 25% grant match, and capital investment projects will require a 50% match.

“Not only does managing solid waste strain municipal budgets, but waste emits harmful methane emissions as it sits in a landfill,” added Heiple. “Just like with clean energy and clean transportation, our waste management industry is poised to innovate and lead the way on waste reduction.”

Applications for the WRIG are now open, and the deadline to apply is July 15, 2025. Interested applicants can visit the WRIG page on the MassDEP website for more information and detailed guidelines on how to apply for funding.

Originally reported by Marissa Mcnees in CD Recycler.