DEP seeks grant proposals for first round of 2022 waste diversion projects

January18 2022 The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is soliciting grant proposals to support the development, implementation or improvement of programs, initiatives or activities designed to increase the diversion of solid waste from disposal. Last year, the DEP awarded a total of $117,876.50 to fund 7 waste diversion projects across Maine. These grants are supporting efforts to: increase efficiencies, […]

January18 2022

The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is soliciting grant proposals to support the development, implementation or improvement of programs, initiatives or activities designed to increase the diversion of solid waste from disposal.

Last year, the DEP awarded a total of $117,876.50 to fund 7 waste diversion projects across Maine.

These grants are supporting efforts to: increase efficiencies, reduce plastic waste, and develop organics management infrastructure at three Maine municipalities; expand a regional seafood compost operation in Hancock County; help a Maine Brewery develop a robust recycling program that includes accepting materials from area residents, increase recycling infrastructure in an underserved Maine community and finally, help a small southwestern Maine community garden develop a backyard compost education program. In addition, in accordance with 38 MRSA §2201-B. Maine Solid Waste Diversion Grant Program, the Department shall give highest priority in the awarding of funds under this section to programs, projects, initiatives, or activities proposed by municipal or regional association applicants.

Application details on the RFP # 202111169 – “Waste Diversion Grants Program” are available on-line at Request for Proposals, Maine DEP. Questions on the RFP must be submitted by January 28, 2022 and proposals must be submitted electronically by 4:00 p.m. February 11, 2022.

All interested municipalities, regional associations and Maine businesses are encouraged to apply. The DEP will provide awards for accepted proposals ranging from $1,000 – $40,000 ($125,000 total) as a result of this RFP process and prefers proposals that:

take advantage of regional economies of scale,
Specify reuse and repair infrastructure and program development
increase organics management and recycling infrastructure in underserved areas of the state,
promote waste reduction through reuse, repair and sharing economy initiatives,
address a statewide need, and/or
expand the types of materials managed through composting and recycling.