PHILADELPHIA, DEC. 21, 2007: Philadelphia recently received significant state funding to support the city’s recycling program, according to state Sen. Mike Stack.

The city has been awarded a $500,000 grant to enhance its curbside collection program.

“By recycling, we are not only helping the environment, but we are promoting an industry that supports jobs and our economy,” Stack said. “I’m pleased that the state continues to support Philadelphia’s efforts to recycle.”

The funding is part of $20 million in grants throughout the state through the Recycling Development and Implementation Grant Program, which reimburses local governments and solid waste authorities for the cost of municipal recycling and composting programs.

Pennsylvania’s recycling program began in 1998. In 2005, Pennsylvanians recycled a record 4.9 million tons of municipal waste, saving consumers and industries nearly $263 million in disposal costs and providing businesses with materials valued at $577 million.

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