Kentucky is getting a boost in its effort to keep valuable materials out of landfills and put them back to work. According to Kentucky Today, the Bluegrass State received a federal grant to strengthen metal recycling and improve battery disposal education.
Here's what to know
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awarded Kentucky $736,666 through the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling program, which is also known as SWIFR.
The grant program is backed by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and Kentucky is the first state selected for 2026 funding in the program's second round.
With part of the funding, Western Kentucky University will review the state's metals recycling system. The project will measure what materials are being recovered, assess how recycling programs and facilities are functioning, and pinpoint where valuable metals are still being missed. Global losses from wasted materials in electronics alone are in the billions.
State officials intend to use that information to shape a practical next-step plan for metals recycling in Kentucky, with the goal of capturing more usable material, reducing waste, and better serving the state's manufacturing base.
More background
The grant also sets aside money for voluntary battery stewardship programs statewide, Kentucky Today reported.
TCD Picks » Quince Spotlight
💡These best-sellers from Quince deliver affordable, sustainable luxury for all
That effort will focus on public education and practical guidance on approved methods and locations for disposing of used batteries before a statewide battery disposal ban begins on June 30, 2027.
Better disposal systems can make things simpler for residents while also reducing the chances of hazardous waste ending up in the wrong place.
What's being done?
According to Kentucky Today, this is the state's second SWIFR grant. Altogether, it has received $1,389,482 through the program.
Previous funding was used to update the Statewide Solid Waste Reduction and Management Plan. During that push, more than 20 community engagement meetings were held to gather input from industry professionals and residents on waste and recycling needs. The updated plan is expected to be published by Oct. 31, 2026.
"Team Kentucky is proud to be the first recipient of this funding for 2026," said John Lyons, secretary of the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet. "These funds will support a truly collaborative effort among stakeholders and industry to develop a viable plan for recycling moving forward."
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.
