Reviewed by: Pat Byington
Baldwin solid waste authority receives largest portion of $2.5M recycling grants
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Coastal Alabama is taking the lead on statewide sustainability. The Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) announced on Monday, Aug. 24 that it is awarding nearly $2.5 million in recycling grants across the state, with Baldwin County securing the single largest allocation.
Announced at the Alabama Recycling Coalition’s Annual Conference and Expo in Gulf Shores, the fiscal year 2027 grants will support 20 municipalities, county commissions and solid waste authorities across Alabama.
Baldwin County secures top grant allocation for local recycling
The Solid Waste Disposal Authority of Baldwin County received the top award statewide at $350,580.
The funding is designed to help local operations divert materials from landfills, reduce roadside litter and keep Alabama waterways clean by boosting reuse and processing infrastructure.
“What they have in common is they are taking materials that would otherwise go in landfills, or littered along roads, city streets and even our waterways, and making those materials available for productive reuse. That is preserving our land and water and protecting our environment.”
Edward Poolos, ADEM Director
Alabama Recycling Fund drives statewide waste reduction
The $2,497,602 total distribution is funded through the Alabama Recycling Fund, created under the 2008 Solid Wastes and Recyclable Materials Management Act (SWRMMA).
- Statewide goal: SWRMMA established a 25% waste reduction target across Alabama.
- Funding mechanism: Supported by a statewide landfill disposal fee of $1 per ton ($0.25 per cubic yard).
- Long-term investment: Since 2008, ADEM has distributed 339 recycling grants totaling more than $39 million.
Other major grant recipients for 2027 include:
- West Alabama Recycling Partnership ($331,658)
- City of Northport ($243,911)
- City of Auburn ($214,957)
- City of Birmingham ($198,000)
- Jefferson County Commission ($169,080)
The Alabama Recycling Coalition received $102,500 to expand its statewide education and outreach programs.
