To propel its recycling capabilities into the future and curb the egregious levels of food waste, the City of Ontario, Calif., is about to get a green-focused boost with a hefty $3.6 million grant from the EPA. The funds are earmarked for various enhancements, including developing a digital tool to keep food out of landfills and onto the plates of those in need.
Announced by the EPA, this windfall will enable Ontario to ramp up its recycling collection infrastructure and make headway with food waste reduction. As seen in an EPA press release, the money hails from the SWIFR Grants program, which has swelled thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and President Biden's Investing in America agenda. According to EPA Pacific Southwest Deputy Regional Administrator Cheree Peterson, "The projects this grant will fund are emblematic of the great work happening across California to recover edible food and increase composting and recycling, creating significant benefits for local communities and the environment."
With plans in place to upgrade the local recycling program, Ontario's Integrated Waste Director Blaine Ishii told the EPA, "We are dedicated to improving our post-consumer waste efforts. With this grant funding, the City will make improvements to our recycling program including enhancements in tracking, education, and market development."
Adding to the momentum, CalRecycle Director Rachel Machi Wagoner relayed the state's headway in combating food waste. Close to 246 million meals have been distributed to Californians needing sustenance. Praising California's initiative, she mentioned, "California has cut climate pollution by requiring large food businesses to send unsold food to people in need instead of landfills as part of our organics diversion initiative."
The grant will establish new recycling collection routes and upgrade materials management by purchasing electric trucks, charging stations, and other necessary equipment. It will also support a digital marketplace for food donations, aligning with California Senate Bill 1383's mandate to cut organic waste in landfills by 75% and redirect 20% of would-be wasted edible food to Californians in need by 2025.
