The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) Reduce, Reuse, Repair Micro-Grant program provides up to $5,000 to for-profit and non-profit organizations, regional authorities, and eligible municipalities for short-term waste reduction projects. Through the program, the MassDEP hopes to foster activities that benefit the environment and local economy by enhancing the value or extending the lifespan of materials that otherwise would end up in the trash.

Project proposals focused on the reduction, reuse, or repair of one or more of the priority materials in the draft 2030 Solid Waste Master Plan will be given preference. These materials include durable goods such as appliances, electronics and furniture, single use packaging and food service products, wasted food, building materials, and transportation and distribution packaging.

Examples of eligible projects include partnering with a vocational school to teach electronics repair, developing an online directory of reuse options for residents, launching a deconstruction and building materials reuse program, adding or expanding bulk section offerings at a local grocery store, and implementing a reusable pallets and containers program. Projects promoting recycling and composting are not eligible for this grant, but may qualify for funding through the Sustainable Materials Recovery Program, which is currently accepting applications through June 10, 2020.

Grant applications are accepted and evaluated on a rolling basis. Visit the MassDEP Reduce, Reuse, Repair Micro-Grant webpage and review the Micro-Grant Guidelines document for more information.

The MassDEP has also established a Reduce & Reuse Working Group open to anyone interested in providing input on source reduction, reuse, and repair strategy in Massachusetts. The next Reduce & Reuse (R&R) Working Group meeting is scheduled for 11:00 am – 1:00 pm on Wednesday May 27, 2020.