Funding available for K–12 schools to expand and improve carton recycling
DENTON, Texas – May 13, 2026 – The Carton Council has opened applications for its 2026 School Carton Recycling Grant Program, providing funding to help K–12 schools across the United States and Canada establish or expand food and beverage carton recycling programs.
Applications are open now through June 30, 2026, with funded projects expected to be implemented during the 2026–27 school year.
The grant program supports schools in improving the recovery of recyclable cartons used for milk, juice, and other food and beverage products commonly consumed in cafeterias. Funding may be used for cafeteria recycling stations, collection bins, signage, education and outreach programs, student-led “green teams”, and other initiatives that increase carton recovery and participation.
“Schools play an important role in building recycling habits and strengthening participation in local recycling programs,” said Jordan Fengel, Carton Council Executive Director. “Beyond teaching students about sustainability and stewardship, school recycling programs provide a great opportunity to improve recovery rates. As carton recycling access continues to expand, we want to help schools take advantage of that infrastructure and ensure students can recycle cartons every day.”
Eligible applicants include public and private K–12 schools, school districts, boards of education, and school administrators or sustainability coordinators applying on behalf of a school or district. Applicants must be located in communities where cartons are accepted for recycling.
Grant amounts will vary based on project scope and anticipated impact. Funding decisions will consider factors including student participation, education and engagement plans, project readiness, and the anticipated increase in carton recovery.
The Carton Council works to expand the collection, sorting, and end markets for food and beverage cartons across the United States and Canada. Since 2009, household access to carton recycling has grown significantly, with more communities than ever able to recycle cartons through their local recycling programs.
Additional information about the grant program, eligibility requirements, and application materials are available at recyclecartons.com/schools.
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About the Carton Council
The Carton Council is composed of four leading carton manufacturers, Elopak, Novolex, SIG, and Tetra Pak. Formed in 2009, the Carton Council works to deliver long-term collaborative solutions to divert valuable cartons from the landfill. Cartons are commonly used to package products like milk, broth, soup, juice and other beverages. When recycled, they can be transformed into premium building materials or new paper products, contributing to a circular economy.
Through a united effort, the Carton Council is committed to building a sustainable infrastructure for carton recycling in the U.S. and Canada and works toward its goals of adding access to carton recycling, as well as increasing recycling rates. For more information, visit recyclecartons.com.