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HARRISBURG, March 6, 2007 - Three Washington County
municipalities will receive a total of $48,253 from the state
Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) as a reward for
their recycling efforts, according to state Sen. J. Barry Stout,
state Rep. Tim Solobay, and state Rep. Jesse White.
“This novel program uses incentives, rather than punitive
action, to clean up our environment,” said Stout (D-Allegheny/
Beaver/Greene/Washington/Westmoreland). “These grants will also
help local governments, many of which are struggling to balance
the books.”
The following townships will receive a Recycling Performance
Grant:
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North Strabane Township -
$28,761
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South Strabane Township -
$19,098
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Canton Township - $394
The department bases the grant
amount on total tons recycled and the municipality’s overall
recycling rate. In calendar year 2005, North Strabane recycled
1,644.7 tons; South Strabane, 1,949.7 tons; and Canton, 66.4
tons.
With Act 101 of 1988, the General Assembly instituted a
$2-per-ton fee on garbage to finance recycling grants. In
addition to the performance grants, the department provides
grants for municipalities looking to establish and expand their
recycling programs.
Recycling provides substantial environmental and economic
benefits to Pennsylvania. According to DEP, for every public
dollar invested, recycling generates $5 in direct economic
impact.
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