Bredesen Announces $399,850 in Used Oil Collection Grants

NASHVILLE - Governor Phil Bredesen and Department of Environment and Conservation Commissioner Jim Fyke announced today that 27 used oil collection grants totaling $399,850 have been awarded to establish, upgrade and expand used oil collection centers in communities across Tennessee.

 

“This straightforward approach to dealing with a potential cause of pollution has a direct positive impact on the water quality of our lakes, streams and groundwater in Tennessee,” Bredesen said. “I’m pleased we can provide these grants to encourage community collection centers where ‘do-it-yourselfers’ can conveniently recycle their used motor oil.”

 

Tennesseans who change their own motor oil generate more than one million gallons of used oil each year, which can pollute soil and water and interfere with the operation of sewer systems when not properly disposed. The General Assembly authorized the Used Oil Collection Act of 1993 to assist local communities in collecting used oil and reducing its negative effects on the environment. Tennessee’s Solid Waste Management Act requires counties to have at least one place in the county where used oil can be properly disposed. Used oil collection grants are funded by a two cent deposit on every quart of oil purchased in the state.

 

The first priority for grant funding is to establish collection sites in underserved areas. Other grants will fund improvement or replacement of equipment in existing public and private facilities. Equipment purchased through Oil Collection Grants can include containers, used oil burners, containment structures, shelter covers and other items.

 

The used oil collection grants announced today include: