S-351 : Still Just a Bill

The "Strategies To Eliminate Waste and Accelerate Recycling Development Act of 2025" or "STEWARD Act of 2025" (S. 351) aims to improve recycling and composting programs in the United States.

• Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility: It establishes a pilot grant program to improve recycling accessibility in communities, especially underserved ones, through investments in infrastructure such as transfer stations and curbside recycling programs. Grants will range from $500,000 to $15,000,000, with priority given to communities lacking nearby materials recovery facilities.
• Data Collection: It requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to collect and share data on recycling and composting programs, including infrastructure, costs, and materials accepted. The EPA will also prepare an inventory of materials recovery facilities.
• Federal Agency Recycling: It requires the Comptroller General to report on recycling and composting rates in the federal government.
• Circular Market Study: It mandates a study on the amount of recyclable materials diverted from a circular market.
• Funding: It authorizes appropriations for both the pilot grant program and the data collection efforts.