Pulaski Times

U.S. Senators John Boozman, Shelley Moore Capito, and Sheldon Whitehouse have announced the passage of the Strategies to Eliminate Waste and Accelerate Recycling Development (STEWARD) Act through a Senate committee. The act, which was unanimously approved by members of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW), seeks to enhance recycling and composting systems across the nation.

The STEWARD Act aims to establish a pilot recycling program at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This program will provide competitive grants to communities looking to improve their recycling accessibility. Senator Boozman emphasized the importance of recycling for economic growth and resource preservation, stating: “Strengthening our commitment to recycling in order to preserve the resources we are blessed with, as well as spur economic growth and encourage industry innovation, benefits all Americans.”

Senator Capito highlighted the need for accessible recycling services in all communities: “For too many Americans, recycling remains out of reach – either because facilities don’t exist in their communities or because the infrastructure to make recycling economically viable is not in place." She noted that data provisions within the act would help track progress and inform decision-making.

Senator Whitehouse underscored the urgency of addressing plastic waste: “I’m proud to join Chairman Capito and Senator Boozman to lead the STEWARD Act, which is an essential preliminary step in reducing the amount of plastics seeping into our bodies and environment.” He expressed his intent to work with colleagues from both parties on this issue.

The STEWARD Act builds upon previous legislation authored by Boozman aimed at improving commercial and curbside recycling. As Chair of the Senate Recycling Caucus, Boozman has been active in promoting sustainability initiatives.

A detailed explanation of the bill is available for further review.