Targeted communities were selected for high population density, multi-family residences, and limited waste storage, factors that have contributed to illegal dumping.
Heil manufactured military refueling equipment during World War II and continued post-war innovations such as molded fiberglass transports and all-nickel trailers.
The coalition highlights potential financial benefits, including up to $100 million in new state revenue and savings of $108 million annually in litter cleanup and waste disposal costs.
The grant arrives as the City Council approved residential waste rate increases starting January 2026, driven by rising recycling costs and landfill construction expenses.
During the challenge, participating schools worked to increase recycling and composting accuracy by keeping trash out of collection bins and ensuring food scraps and recyclables were sorted correctly.