STEWARD Act of 2025

Key Points

• This policy creates a new grant program to help towns and cities build better recycling systems. It focuses on building 'transfer stations' where recyclables can be collected and then sent to larger processing centers, making it easier for smaller or remote areas to recycle.
• The program specifically targets 'underserved communities' that currently do not have good access to recycling because they are too far from processing plants. These areas can receive grants between $500,000 and $15,000,000 to start curbside pickup or improve their local facilities.
• The EPA will also start collecting much more detailed information on how much Americans actually recycle and compost. This includes tracking what happens to materials like plastic, glass, and food waste to see if they are actually being reused or just thrown away.
• Congress is setting aside $30 million every year through 2029 for the infrastructure grants and another $4 million per year for the data collection. At least 70% of the grant money must go to communities that currently struggle with limited recycling options.
• Federal agencies will also have to report their own recycling rates and how many recycled products they buy. This aims to make the government lead by example in reducing waste and supporting the market for recycled goods.

Impact Analysis

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