Anderson University Receives IDEM Grant for Campus Recycling Program

ANDERSON, IN - Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) commissioner Thomas Easterly presented Anderson University a ceremonial check for $25,000 Friday, September 19, 2008, at the Flagship Enterprise Center in Anderson.

Anderson University has committed to converting itself into a more recycling-friendly campus.  The funds will enable the purchase of recycling trailers, bins and totes, in addition to a campaign to inform students and faculty about the new recycling opportunities on campus.

"IDEM awards the grants for recycling projects aimed at reducing the amount of recyclables that Hoosiers put in the trash, but the benefits go well beyond trash reduction because recycling also saves money, conserves energy, preserves natural resources, and reduces emissions," said Commissioner Easterly.

Anderson students, faculty and staff aim to keep an estimated 384 tons of recyclables out of landfills as a direct result of the IDEM grant.

"Our students are very committed to stewardship of the environment," said Dr. James L. Edwards, Anderson University president. "We are deeply grateful to have been given this grant so we can actively do our part to limit the impact of waste in landfills."

Anderson University is one of 14 Indiana entities receiving a share of $328,754 to help keep plastic, paper, aluminum and other recyclables out of landfills. The grant money comes from the Indiana Solid Waste Management Fund, an account generated by a per-ton fee on solid waste disposed at Indiana landfills. The fund supports source reduction, reuse, recycling and composting to prevent solid waste from permanent disposal. IDEM awards recycling grants twice each year. Information about the recycling grant program can be found at http://www.IN.gov/recycle/3033.htm.

Source: IDEM