The state awarded eight municipalities and counties for their successful recycling efforts through the grants. The DEP has made it a priority to increase recycling and has held 20 public meetings since March to discuss ways to increase recycling rates.

New Jersey plans to adopt a new statewide solid waste management plan later this year, which will be the state’s first update to its existing plan since the 1975 New Jersey Solid Waste Management Act required municipalities and counties to produce plans.