READING, March 6, 2012 — The Berks County Solid Waste Authority and two local municipalities have been awarded significant state grants for their recycling efforts, according to state Sen. Judy Schwank.

“These funds will enhance local recycling efforts that will, in turn, improve our environment,” Schwank said. “I’m pleased that the state is encouraging communities to make Pennsylvania a cleaner and greener place to live and work.”

The Berks County Solid Waste Authority received a $26,310.92 grant that will be used to reimburse 50 percent of the costs for developing and operating a November 2011 household hazardous waste collection event at the Exeter Township Municipal Building. The grant was authorized by the Pennsylvania Small Business and Household Pollution Prevent Grant Program.

Kenhorst Borough received a $7,585 Recycling Performance Grant, based on the 475.1 tons recycled by the borough in 2009 and the borough’s population.  Mohnton Borough received a $7,669 Recycling Performance Grant, based on the 371.2 tons recycled in 2009 and the borough’s population. This grant program provides incentives to help communities increase recycling and promote economic growth.

The grant programs operate under the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

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