Earlier this year, Chattooga County was the recipient of a 2024 Recycling and Waste Diversion Grant from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD), a move that has already begun to yield significant benefits for local taxpayers. The $341,467 grant enabled the county to purchase a state-of-the-art shredder machine capable of grinding a variety of materials, including concrete, rubble, asphalt, bricks, wood, and other waste.

Commissioner Blake Elsberry emphasized the importance of this investment when the grant was awarded, stating, “This will give us the ability to recycle and reuse a multitude of materials which could inadvertently save money on the amount of material purchased.” Just this past week, Commissioner Elsberry reiterated the ongoing positive impact of the new shredder on the county’s operations. He revealed that the machine has been instrumental in reducing the amount of construction debris sent to landfills. “The shredder acquired with a grant is continuing to make a positive impact on transfer station operations. The ability to process construction debris cuts down on the amount of waste going to the landfill, cutting roughly one tractor trailer load per day,” he explained.

This reduction not only contributes to a more sustainable waste management system but also translates to significant savings for taxpayers, showcasing the effectiveness of the county’s investment in recycling technology. Commissioner Elsberry also expressed gratitude to the staff at the Northwest Georgia Regional Commission for their collaboration with county government to secure the grant from the EPD.