We have exciting news to share for Planet Aid's Massachusetts (MA) location! Planet Ais is pleased to share that it has been selected as a recipient of up to $200,000 by the Baker-Polito Administration. The Recycling Business Development Grant (RBDG) was awarded to five Massachusetts businesses/organizations on July 21, 2021. Administered by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), Planet Aid will benefit from funding by expanding and upgrading recycling systems.
Governor Charlie Baker stated, "Recycling plays an important part in the Massachusetts economy, employing thousands of people and converting recyclable materials into valuable end-products." As a condition for funding, grant recipients must meet tonnage goals over two years. Already an integral part of the recycling community, Planet Aid's textile recycling will further help the Commonwealth's goal to reduce trash by 1.7 million tons by the year 2030.
The RBDG program targets difficult-to-recycle materials, including container glass, food waste, mattresses, and textiles. "Instead of dumping or burning these valuable materials, businesses like these can help turn them into new products, valuable compost, or a renewable energy source through the anaerobic digestion process," said MassDEP Commissioner Martin Suuberg.
Among those excited about the RBDG grant awarded to Planet Aid is State Representative Brian Murray (D. Milford). Calling the organization caring and conscientious, he also stated, "It is fitting that Planet Aid will be the recipient of significant grant funds through the Recycling Business Development Grant Program. This will allow the company to improve on its processing and recycling of textiles, which is not only good business but sound environmental policy as well."