Nebraska cities receive $7 million in waste, recycling grants

The Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment (DWEE) has awarded over $7 million in grants to support 126 waste and litter reduction projects across the state.  

The funding comes from DWEE’s waste reduction and recycling incentive grants program and its litter reduction and recycling program.  

DWEE says the grants will help fund waste and litter reduction projects, recycling programs, costs of scrap tire cleanups and collections for household hazardous waste, electronic waste and pharmaceuticals.  

The funding is provided to also support public education programs on litter reduction and recycling through school and community activities. The department says cleanup grants provide funding for Nebraska residents of all ages who pick up litter and debris along Nebraska’s highways, waterways, recreation lands, urban areas and other public use areas within the state. 

“DWEE is pleased to support local initiatives such as those that help residents properly dispose of various household materials,” says Sarah Starostka, DWEE planning and aid division administrator. “Many of the funded projects provide the added benefit of educating Nebraskans about the importance of reducing the waste we generate, reducing litter and improving recycling to keep our communities clean and vibrant.” 

The waste reduction and recycling incentive grants program is funded by fees on solid waste disposed of in landfills, annual retail business sales fees and fees assessed on the sales of new tires. The litter reduction and recycling program is funded by fees charged to certain manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers of products that commonly contribute to litter, and a fee assessed on the sale of new tires. 

Grant applications for 2027 will be accepted starting in June. DWEE’s website contains more information on grant applications and a list of the 2026 grant awards by city.