PORTLAND — ecomaine has launched its call for schools in its member communities to propose projects focused on waste diversion for up to $5,000 in funding. Projects that focus on waste reduction or reuse, recycling, or composting are all eligible for consideration. The deadline for proposals is Monday, May 16, 2022.

Schools, including those from pre-K to secondary education, as well as afterschool programs from any of ecomaine’s more than 70 member communities are qualified to submit a proposal at www.ecomaine.org/grants. Past grant proposals have ranged from purchasing in-school recycling bins or educational resources, to offsetting compost hauling fees, litter cleanups, or installing water bottle-filling stations to reduce plastic bottle consumption. 

“Our goal through the School Recycling Grants program is to help schools with their waste reduction and diversion programs,” said ecomaine Communications Manager, Matt Grondin, in a news release. “We hear from educators that this kind of hands-on learning experience is a valuable experience, and hopefully this funding can make sustainability education more accessible to Maine’s students and schools.”

Recipients will be chosen by ecomaine’s Outreach and Recycling Committee based on the following criteria:

(1) Project outline and school commitment

(2) Ease of project replication

(3) Demonstration of waste reduction, reuse, recycling, or composting strategies

(4) Likelihood of success and program sustainability

(5) How compelling and worthy the project funding is, overall

Along with its grants program, ecomaine also promotes increased public awareness of sustainable waste management through its eco-Excellence Awards, Recycling is a Work of Art painting contest, and a vigorous public education and outreach program. In the last year, ecomaine reached more than 55,000 school children and members of the public through grants, tours, presentations, and events.

About ecomaine

ecomaine, located in Portland, Maine, is the member-owned, nonprofit, recycling and waste-to-energy operation that serves a third of the state’s population in more than 70 member communities.  ecomaine provides comprehensive long-term solid waste solutions in a safe, environmentally responsible, economically sound manner, and is a leader in raising public awareness of sustainable waste management strategies.