Local recycling and compost programs in 40 counties across Pennsylvania received a boost as Governor Edward G. Rendell announced $20 million in grants to help support these efforts that employ tens of thousands of people and contribute billions of dollars to the economy.

The 113 recycling development and implementation grants the Governor announced will reimburse municipalities for costs associated with establishing and maintaining recycling and composting programs.

“When someone throws a bottle, can or newspaper in the recycling bin, they’re not only helping to protect our environment and preserve precious resources, they’re supporting an important industry,” said Governor Rendell. “Pennsylvania’s recycling industry is directly responsible for more than 52,000 jobs with an annual payroll of $2 billion; it also generates $20 billion in gross receipts. That’s a substantial impact that’s certainly worthy of the investments we’re making today.

“Beyond that, recycled materials often provide the raw materials for other products. And by using more recycled materials, we also avoid the need to extract additional raw materials from the Earth.”

The Department of Environmental Protection, which administers the program, has already modified its recycling grant programs to operate at reduced funding levels in order to extend financial support to municipal recycling efforts for as long as possible. Even at these reduced levels, however, funding will no longer be available after Dec. 31, 2010, unless the fee is extended.

For more information on recycling grants and Pennsylvania’s Recycling Markets Center, visit www.depweb.state.pa.us, keyword: Recycling.