Community Waste Reduction and Recycling (CWRAR) Grant
The Community Waste Reduction and Recycling (CWRAR) Grant supports North Carolina local governments with recycling infrastructure and public education projects to divert materials from disposal.
Funder: North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
Due Dates: February 11, 2027, by 5:00 p.m. (Proposals)
Funding Amounts: Up to $80,000 for priority projects or $60,000 for standard projects; one-year project period; 20% cash match
Summary: Supports North Carolina local governments in expanding recycling infrastructure and public education to divert materials from disposal.
Key Information: Only North Carolina counties, municipalities, councils of governments, and solid waste authorities may apply.
Description
The Community Waste Reduction and Recycling (CWRAR) Grant helps North Carolina local governments implement, expand, and improve waste reduction and recycling programs. The Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Environmental Assistance and Customer Service (DEACS) administers this annual program through its Solid Waste Management Outreach Program. Projects should build lasting capacity to divert materials from the waste stream or increase public awareness of recycling.
The 2027 priorities are curbside recycling expansion and cart conversions, regional infrastructure serving multiple local governments, household hazardous waste programs emphasizing lithium-ion batteries, and construction and demolition recycling. Other public recycling improvements qualify as standard projects. Supported investments include site development, recycling facilities, equipment, vehicles, collection containers, installation, and educational signs, mailers, handouts, and brochures.
