The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has announced the approval of $1.3 million in grants aimed at enhancing solid waste management convenience centers and used automotive oil collection sites. These grants are part of TDEC’s effort to support local communities in achieving their solid waste and recycling objectives. By upgrading infrastructure, local governments can divert more waste from landfills and provide residents with accessible recycling opportunities. The grants are managed by TDEC’s Division of Solid Waste Management Grants Program.
David Salyers, TDEC Commissioner, expressed his appreciation for the communities dedicated to responsible waste management. He stated, “These grants assist in efforts to make environmental protection steps as easy as possible.” The convenience center grants are designed for Tennessee counties requiring financial help to replace or eliminate green boxes, establish new centers in underrepresented areas, or enhance current sites.
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The used automotive oil grants focus on applicants wanting to create new public do-it-yourself automotive fluid collection sites in underserved areas or upgrade existing sites to further encourage education and recycling of used oil. Convenience center grant recipients can utilize the funds to construct or enhance convenience centers, although the grants cannot be used for ongoing operational expenses.
The Used Oil Collection and Recycling Grant Program, funded by a two-cent fee on each quart of oil sold in Tennessee, supports the establishment, maintenance, and improvement of used oil and automotive fluid collection equipment. This initiative aims to promote recycling and proper disposal of used oil, contributing to environmental protection efforts across the state.
For more information on TDEC and its programs, visit the TDEC website.
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Tennessee Offers Driver Services to Flood Victims
The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security is providing free replacement driver licenses and other services to individuals affected by Hurricane Helene in East Tennessee. These services are accessible at a mobile unit in Elizabethton and at three Multi-Agency Resource Centers located in Newport, Elizabethton, and Jonesborough. The Elizabethton Driver Services Center is temporarily closed due to flooding, but other service centers and kiosks remain operational. Payments at these locations can only be made via credit or debit card, and additional resources for flood recovery are available online.