In an effort to avoid the creation of waste in the first place, Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) will award grant monies, totaling $100,000, to community groups that create or expand projects that prevent waste. Recycling and composting help, but not creating waste at all is the greatest aid to the environment, protection of public health, and saving money.
Through February 21st, SPU will accept applications for its Waste-Free Communities Matching Grant program. Businesses, non-profits, community groups, schools, colleges, universities, institutions, faith-based organizations, and youth programs are all eligible to apply. Eligible programs must increase waste prevention in Seattle, with activities that have a matching for funding.
Previous grant projects have educated and engaged 4,322 people on waste prevention, prevented 3,700 plastic bottles from being used, rescued 7,009 pounds of food, and repaired or upcycled 641 textiles and other, similar items. Since the grants began, in summer 2008, funded programs have increased equitable access to waste prevention opportunities and benefits for low-income, African-American, immigrant and refugee communities.
Applications are available in several languages, and may be submitted in print or video format. For more information, visit the SPU website page about the Waste Free Grants (click here.)