Sept. 17, 2015
For More Information:
Michael Marshall, 517-614-7431, marshallm7@michigan.gov
Karen Tommasulo, 517-284-6716, tommasulok@michigan.gov
The DEQ today announced the availability of grant applications to promote the cleanup and reuse of scrap tires.
Scrap tires from vehicles can be ground up and used in asphalt for roads or in manufactured products, or as fuel for energy. However, left in landfills or the environment, scrap tires pose both a fire risk and a human health risk as a mosquito breeding ground.
The first grant is available for property owners to clean up old or abandoned scrap tire piles. The DEQ will give priority to collection sites where tires accumulated prior to Jan. 1, 1991, as well as collection sites that pose an imminent threat to public health, safety, welfare or the environment. Local units of government and non-profit organizations are also eligible for funding for cleanup days and roadside cleanup grants. Priority in these grants will be given to entities that have never received funding and those that provide the most accessibility to proper disposal of scrap tires.
A second grant is available for projects that demonstrate new or increased uses of scrap tires in manufactured products. The DEQ will prioritize proposals based on the amount of scrap tire material to be used in developing the project or product, demonstration of a new use of scrap tire material, and demonstration of a viable market for the proposed product.
Grants will be available to reimburse up to 50 percent of the cost of purchasing scrap tires. Grants are also available to reimburse up to 50 percent of the cost of purchasing equipment and/or for research and development to provide for a new or increased use for scrap tires.
To receive a Letter of Interest form and application package for either grant, visit www.michigan.gov/scraptires and select the appropriate link under “Grants,” or contact Michael Marshall at 517-614-7431.
The DEQ will accept Letters of Interest with all supporting documentation postmarked on or before Oct. 30.