Arizona Department of Environmental Quality Announces $1 Million in Recycling Grant Funding

SEATTLE (Waste Advantage): After a successful relaunch in 2023, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) announces that its Recycling Grant Program is returning for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY2026). With $1 million in funding available, ADEQ encourages Arizona businesses, nonprofits, schools, and local governments to apply for grants that support recycling efforts, reduce landfill waste, and help build a circular economy in our state.

“The momentum we’ve seen from the return of this program has been incredible,” said ADEQ Recycling Program Coordinator, J.B. Shaw. “These grants empower communities to develop innovative solutions, grow jobs, and keep valuable resources circulating right here in Arizona.”

In the previous grant cycle, ADEQ awarded nearly $1 million to 12 organizations, resulting in impressive outcomes:

•          20 new jobs created
•          Nearly 5,000 tons of material diverted from landfills
•          Tens of thousands of reusable items washed, sorted, or redistributed
•          Thousands of Arizona students reached through education and engagement

One of the 12 ADEQ Recycling Grant recipients is Arizona-based nonprofit, Let’s Go Compost. Founded by Lauren Click, Let’s Go Compost began as a small-scale initiative to introduce students to the basics of composting. With the support of a $45,000 ADEQ Recycling Grant, the program has grown dramatically, expanding to 79 additional schools and engaging thousands of students across the state.

“Thanks to ADEQ’s grant, we were able to take Let’s Go Compost from a small pilot to a statewide program,” said Lauren Click, founder of Let’s Go Compost. “Together, we’ve brought hands-on composting education and infrastructure to schools across Arizona. This investment helps strengthen our state’s circular economy, empowers the next generation of environmental leaders, and builds long-term resilience through local, school-based solutions. By bringing STEM-based composting programs into classrooms, students see science in action and gain the skills to help build a stronger, more sustainable future for everyone.”

Courtesy: www.wasteadvantagemag.com