EPA Announces $750,000 Grant for Recycling Initiatives at the Shinnecock Indian Nation

EPA Announces $750,000 Grant for Recycling Initiatives at the Shinnecock Indian Nation

July 29, 2026

NEW YORK - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced it has selected the Shinnecock Indian Nation to receive $750,000 through the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) to support the nation's extensive recycling efforts. The Shinnecock Indian Nation is slated to receive funding for their project called "Shinnecock Enhancement of Recycling and Composting Initiative."

"These grants further energize our American economy by improving recycling, cutting disposal costs, reducing waste in landfills and extending landfill life, and creating good paying local jobs," said Acting Assistant Administrator for Land and Emergency Management Thomas Croci. "By improving tribal recycling infrastructure EPA supports the recovery of domestic sources of raw materials, local economies and provides tangible health benefits to communities across Indian Country."

"The Shinnecock Indian Nation's commitment to advancing recycling and composting demonstrates its commitment to improving the management of waste and improving the quality of life for all of its members," said EPA Regional Administrator Michael Martucci. "This grant will create stronger local waste management systems, reduce landfill use, and support new economic opportunities while protecting the local environment for generations to come."

The Shinnecock Indian Nation's project will make recycling and composting programs on the Nation more efficient. Through this program, the Nation will supply every home with recycling bins and pick up recyclables weekly. The project will improve how recyclable materials, organics, and food waste are collected from tribal member homes and office buildings by offering direct pick-up services. The Nation will buy collection and storage bins and a truck to help with collection and transportation.

By sponsoring a more efficient and robust solid waste management system in Tribal communities, these grants reduce the burden on landfill capacity, increase valuable materials for end-markets, establish collection services and composting programs, create new jobs, and improve quality of life. The goal of the SWIFR grants is to improve local waste management systems, meeting Congress' goal to create a stronger, more resilient, and cost-effective U.S. municipal solid waste recycling system.

Navigate to our webpage to learn more about the SWIFR Tribal grant program.Exit EPA's website

Follow EPA Region 2 on XExit EPA's website, InstagramExit EPA's website, and visit our FacebookExit EPA's website page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our websiteExit EPA's website.

26-040