Environmental

Fossil discovery in the Geiseltal Collection: Researchers identify unique bird skull

Pathogen-fighting immune cells called tissue-resident memory CD8 T cells (TRM cells) go through a surprising transformation -- and relocation -- as they fight infections in the small intestine.

Fighting experience plays key role in brain chemical's control of male aggression

Around 45 million years ago, a 4.6 feet-tall (1.40 meters) flightless bird called Diatryma roamed the Geiseltal region in southern Saxony-Anhalt. An international team of researchers report on the bird's fully preserved skull. The fossil was unearthed in the 1950s in a former lignite mining area in the Geiseltal in Germany. It was initially misclassified and thus led a shadowy existence until its rediscovery. The only other place that a similar skull fossil has been found is the USA.

AI in cell research: Moscot reveals cell dynamics in unprecedented detail

Like humans, mice will compete over territory and mates, and show increased confidence in their fighting skills the more they win. At first, a brain chemical called dopamine is essential for young males to master this behavior. But as they gain experience, the chemical grows less important in promoting aggression, a new study shows.

Final synthetic yeast chromosome unlocks new era in biotechnology

Thanks to a new technology called Moscot ('Multi-Omics Single-Cell Optimal Transport'), researchers can now observe millions of cells simultaneously as they develop into a new organ -- for example, a pancreas.

Research shows PTSD, anxiety may affect reproductive health of women firefighters

Scientists have completed construction of the final chromosome in the worlds' first synthetic yeast genome following more than a decade of work, opening new possibilities for creating resilient, engineered organisms.

Wild baboons not capable of visual self-awareness when viewing their own reflection

Investigators found negative mental health conditions among women firefighters may reduce levels of key hormone associated with ovarian reserve.

Here's what's causing the Great Salt Lake to shrink

Wild baboons failed to demonstrate visual self-recognition in a test carried out by anthropologists.

Can DNA-nanoparticle motors get up to speed with motor proteins?

The Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, reached historic low levels in 2022, raising economic, ecological and public health concerns for Utah. New research is believed to be the first peer-reviewed study that quantifies the contributing factors to the record low water volume levels, which the researchers say is important for anticipating and managing future lake changes.

EPA Announces Partnership with Village of Franklin Park, Illinois, to Accelerate Replacement of Lead Water Pipes and Protect Public Health

DNA-nanoparticle motors are exactly as they sound: tiny artificial motors that use the structures of DNA and RNA to propel motion by enzymatic RNA degradation. Essentially, chemical energy is converted into mechanical motion by biasing the Brownian motion. The DNA-nanoparticle motor uses the 'burnt-bridge' Brownian ratchet mechanism. In this type of movement, the motor is being propelled by the degradation (or 'burning') of the bonds (or 'bridges') it crosses along the substrate, essentially biasing its motion forward.

Environmental News from EPA

EPA Announces More Than $280,000 in Grants to Help Illinois Businesses Prevent Pollution as Part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America Agenda

CHICAGO (Nov. 4, 2024) – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a collaboration with Village of Franklin Park, Illinois, to help identify drinking water lead pipes, accelerate replacement and protect public health. Franklin Park is participating in the EPA’s Get the Lead Out Initiative, which is funded entirely by the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help move the nation towards achieving 100% lead service line replacement. As part of this initiative, EPA contractors will accompany village representatives from November 6 through November 9 in a door-knocking effort to identify lead service lines.“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is driving historic levels of funding to replace lead service lines in communities like Franklin Park across the country,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “EPA is using every tool available, including regulation, funding, and this technical assistance initiative, to get the lead out of the nation’s drinking water once and for all.” Consuming lead in drinking water can cause serious health impacts, including irreversible harm to brain development in children. To protect children and families, the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests a historic $15 billion to replace lead pipes and deliver clean and safe drinking water, including nearly $241 million for Illinois just this year alone. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law also allocated another $11.7 billion to the General Supplemental Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, which can be used for lead pipe replacement. However, many underserved communities lack the resources to plan for lead pipe replacement and access federal investments. The technical assistance provided through the Get the Lead Out Initiative will help ensure that no community is left behind in the opportunity to replace lead pipes.“Access to clean, safe drinking water is not just a basic necessity; it is a fundamental human right,” said Sen. Dick Durbin. “Congress passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law knowing how our communities, especially those in underserved areas, continue to live with the threat of lead contaminated drinking water. By partnering with EPA to identify and replace lead service lines, Illinois communities can eliminate this public health threat once and for all.”“Every American deserves access to clean, safe and reliable water, but all too often this neglect disproportionately affects historically underserved communities and communities of color,” said Sen. Tammy Duckworth. “Making sure all families have access to clean water is important to me, it’s why I pushed to ensure my Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act and historic levels of funding for lead service line replacement were included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Now, I’m proud the Biden-Harris Administration’s Get the Lead Out program is continuing to prioritize getting the lead out of pipes in Illinois communities like Franklin Park so we can help deliver clean water for all.”“Access to safe drinking water is a human right, and unfortunately many communities across our country still have to wonder if the water they drink is lead-free. The Village of Franklin Park is taking action to protect residents by participating in EPA’s Get the Lead Out campaign,” said Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García. “I encourage all residents of Franklin Park to collaborate in this effort as the village begins a door-knocking campaign to identify and remove lead service lines. We all have a role to play in promoting a healthy Franklin Park.”“The Village of Franklin Park has embraced the Get the Lead Out Initiative and is appreciative of the EPA’s technical assistance in helping to reduce the number of lead water services in the Village,” said Franklin Park Mayor Barrett Pedersen. “This is a significant contribution in helping the Village’s goal of eliminating lead water services in the future.” EPA estimates that there are about 9 million lead service lines still in use across the country. Communities wishing to receive assistance with lead service line replacement can request assistance by completing the WaterTA request form on EPA’s WaterTA website.EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule Improvements were finalized on October 8, 2024. They require drinking water systems across the country to identify and replace lead pipes within ten years. The Lead and Copper Rule Improvements also require more rigorous testing of drinking water and a lower threshold requiring communities to take action to protect people from lead exposure in water. In addition, the final rule improves communication within communities so that families are better informed about the risk of lead in drinking water, the location of lead pipes and plans for replacing them.The Get the Lead Out Initiative could not come at a better time as EPA is already supporting communities such as the ones in Illinois to identify lead pipes, develop lead service line replacement plans, increase community outreach and education efforts, and apply for funding. As a result of these efforts, Franklin Park, Elgin, Kewanee, Maywood, Monmouth, North Chicago, and South Holland are already on track to meet the more protective standards that EPA has set to protect people from lead in drinking water and move quickly toward the goal of 100% lead-free pipes.Background:Signed in 2021, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provided a historic $50 billion investment in drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, dedicating more than $15 billion to replacing lead service lines and another $11.7 billion to the General Supplemental Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. EPA is committed to ensuring every community, particularly underserved and disadvantaged communities, can access their fair share of this unprecedented investment through a robust portfolio of Water Technical Assistance (WaterTA) programs, such as the Get the Lead Out Initiative.As part of the Administration’s whole-of-government effort to tackle lead exposure, EPA will help communities remove the barriers to lead pipe replacement. Through the Get the Lead Out Initiative, EPA will develop tools and case studies to share information and best practices between the agency, state and Tribal programs, water system managers, and community leaders.

EPA Announces More Than $980,000 in Grants to Help Michigan Businesses Prevent Pollution as Part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America Agenda

This week, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that the University of Illinois has been selected to receive $281,280 in grants to provide technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention practices in local communities. The University of Illinois will provide breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries with on-site technical assistance to reduce hazardous waste from toxic cleaning products, avoid greenhouse gases emissions from organic waste disposal, and promote circular economy by reducing single-use plastics, composting, and purchasing reusable or recycled products.“Thanks to President Biden and Vice President Harris’ leadership, EPA has provided unprecedented support for innovative approaches that prevent pollution and protect the environment,” said EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Deputy Assistant Administrator for Pollution Prevention Jennie Romer. “Empowering businesses through these grant projects is a win-win that protects communities while also cutting costs for businesses.”“I’m glad to see this funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law going to the University of Illinois to reduce pollution and help Illinois businesses,” said Sen. Dick Durbin. “From breweries to wineries, this award will lead to a cleaner economy by reducing single-use plastics and toxic waste, and promoting environmentally-friendly products in our service industries.” “In order to preserve our environment for generations to come, we need to make significant investments in community-driven solutions today,” said Sen. Tammy Duckworth. “This federal investment from EPA will help the University of Illinois provide technical assistance to reduce hazardous waste and promote the use of reusable or recycled products. I’ll keep working to ensure that our communities are receiving the much-needed federal resources they deserve as we progress toward our clean energy future.” “The P2 grant program will empower businesses to adopt innovative strategies to tackle pollution,” said Rep. Nikki Budzinski. “I’m thrilled that the University of Illinois will receive more than $282,000 through this program to help local businesses reduce hazardous waste and promote the circular economy. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver transformative investments for Central and Southern Illinois, and I’m proud to be working with the EPA to ensure that our community receives its fair share of these important federal resources.”  In total, EPA announced 48 selectees across the country that will collectively receive nearly $19 million in grants to support states, Tribal Nations, and U.S. territories in providing technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention practices in local communities. Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, nearly half of the funds awarded this year were made available with no cost share/match requirement.Pollution prevention, also known as P2 or source reduction, is any practice that reduces, eliminates, or prevents pollution at its source prior to recycling, treatment, or disposal. Preventing pollution at the source rather than managing waste afterwards is an important way to support American business’ efforts to reduce costs, while protecting communities from exposure to toxic chemicals and conserving natural resources. These practices are essential for protecting health, improving environmental conditions–including in and around disadvantaged communities–and preserving natural resources like wetlands, groundwater sources, and other critical ecosystems. Between 2011-2022, EPA’s Pollution Prevention program issued over 500 grants totaling more than $54 million, which have helped businesses identify, develop, and adopt P2 approaches. These approaches have resulted in 31.9 billion kWh in energy savings, eliminated 20.8 million metric tons of greenhouse gases, saved 52 billion gallons of water, reduced 1 billion pounds of hazardous materials, and saved businesses more than $2.3 billion. The agency expects to award funds once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied. Once awarded, selected grantees will document and share P2 best practices that they identify and develop through these grants, so that others can replicate these practices and outcomes. Each selected grantee will also develop at least one case study during the grant period on P2 practices that are new or not widely known or adopted, or where detailed information on the P2 practices could benefit other businesses or P2 technical assistance providers.The grants funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will be fully funded upon being awarded, with individual grant awards as high as $350,000. Grants that are a part of the traditional P2 grants program will be funded over a two-year funding cycle and require a cost share/match of fifty percent. EPA’s Pollution Prevention Grant Program advances President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative which set a goal to deliver 40% of the overall benefits from certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. The full list of selections can be found below, and the selected project summaries can be found on EPA’s Pollution Prevention website.BackgroundPresident Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law made a historic $100 million investment in EPA’s P2 Program, more than doubling the funding for P2 grants. The first round of 39 awards funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was announced in September 2022 and the second round of 24 awards was announced October 2023.The list of selections can be found below, and the selected project summaries can be found on EPA’s Pollution Prevention website.Read more about P2 and EPA’s P2 Grant Program.

EPA recognizes $7.7 million grant to The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians for greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction measures

This week, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and Central Michigan University have been selected to receive $987,645 in grants to provide technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention (P2) practices in local communities. EGLE will receive $700,00 to start a Statewide P2 Food Waste Reduction Technical Assistance program to provide technical assistance to food and beverage manufacturing and processing businesses. The agency will focus on reducing the amount of organic material, hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant entering waste streams or released into the environment prior to recycling of discarded material, treatment, or disposal, as well as conserving the use of natural resources. Central Michigan University will receive $287,645 to partner with the Michigan Sustainable Business Forum (MiSBF) and work with food and beverage manufacturing businesses to undertake some of the recommended actions of “The Michigan Food Waste Reduction Road Map” which was recently developed by MiSBF. The project team will provide P2 technical assistance and training to food and beverage manufacturing and processing facilities and community partners located in disadvantaged communities in Michigan.“Thanks to President Biden and Vice President Harris’ leadership, EPA has provided unprecedented support for innovative approaches that prevent pollution and protect the environment,” said EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Deputy Assistant Administrator for Pollution Prevention Jennie Romer. “Empowering businesses through these grant projects is a win-win that protects communities while also cutting costs for businesses.”"Today’s announcement of new federal funding to help cut down on polluting chemicals in our waterways and environment is another step towards protecting Michiganders' health, safety, and way of life," said Rep. Elissa Slotkin. "As Michigan families have for years worried about our water, this new funding to eliminate pollution at the source will help address a problem that Michiganders face every day.” In total, EPA announced 48 selectees across the country that will collectively receive nearly $19 million in grants to support states, Tribal Nations, and U.S. territories in providing technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention (P2) practices in local communities. Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, nearly half of the funds awarded this year were made available with no cost share/match requirement.Pollution prevention, also known as P2 or source reduction, is any practice that reduces, eliminates, or prevents pollution at its source prior to recycling, treatment, or disposal. Preventing pollution at the source rather than managing waste afterwards is an important way to support American business’ efforts to reduce costs, while protecting communities from exposure to toxic chemicals and conserving natural resources. These practices are essential for protecting health, improving environmental conditions–including in and around disadvantaged communities–and preserving natural resources like wetlands, groundwater sources, and other critical ecosystems. Between 2011-2022, EPA’s Pollution Prevention program issued over 500 grants totaling more than $54 million, which have helped businesses identify, develop, and adopt P2 approaches. These approaches have resulted in 31.9 billion kWh in energy savings, eliminated 20.8 million metric tons of greenhouse gases, saved 52 billion gallons of water, reduced 1 billion pounds of hazardous materials, and saved businesses more than $2.3 billion. The agency expects to award funds once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied. Once awarded, selected grantees will document and share P2 best practices that they identify and develop through these grants, so that others can replicate these practices and outcomes. Each selected grantee will also develop at least one case study during the grant period on P2 practices that are new or not widely known or adopted, or where detailed information on the P2 practices could benefit other businesses or P2 technical assistance providers.The grants funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will be fully funded upon being awarded, with individual grant awards as high as $350,000. Grants that are a part of the traditional P2 grants program will be funded over a two-year funding cycle and require a cost share/match of fifty percent. EPA’s Pollution Prevention Grant Program advances President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative which set a goal to deliver 40% of the overall benefits from certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. The full list of selections can be found below, and the selected project summaries can be found on EPA’s Pollution Prevention website.BackgroundPresident Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law made a historic $100 million investment in EPA’s P2 Program, more than doubling the funding for P2 grants. The first round of 39 awards funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was announced in September 2022 and the second round of 24 awards was announced October 2023.The list of selections can be found below, and the selected project summaries can be found on EPA’s Pollution Prevention website.Read more about P2 and EPA’s P2 Grant Program.

EPA Announces Nearly $335,000 in Grants to Help Minnesota Businesses Prevent Pollution as Part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America Agenda

CHOCTAW, Miss. (November 4, 2024) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Region 4 Administrator, Jeaneanne Gettle joined the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben for a press event to highlight the award of a $7.7 million Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) emphasizing sustainable energy infrastructure, cleaner transportation, resiliency, and learning.“We are excited to announce the award of this Climate Pollution Reduction Grant to the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians,” said Acting EPA Region 4 Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. “The projects funded by this grant will bring substantial environmental, economic, and health benefits to the Tribe and set a powerful example for communities across the nation.”“I first want to thank the EPA for this award and our Office of Environmental Protection for writing this grant that will now make a positive impact in their program and in homes of some of our Tribal Elders,” said Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben. “The grant consists of four main projects which will contribute directly to greenhouse gas reductions through their specific actions.”With approximately 11,000 Tribal members and 2,300 residential units spread across Choctaw Tribal lands, these projects will directly impact 250 residences belonging to Tribal elders and disabled individuals, who face heightened risks during power outages. The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians CPRG Implementation Grant will support four greenhouse gas reduction measures to deliver substantial environmental, economic, and health benefits. Specific efforts will include installing solar heat pumps, upgrading appliances, enhancing biodiesel production, and improving recycling capabilities and efficiency.The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians CPRG Project Highlights:Energy Efficient Improvements: Solar Direct Heat PumpsThe installation of solar-driven heat pumps in residential homes will provide much-needed cooling during the sweltering Mississippi summers, while also lowering electricity costs. The project aims to install solar panels and energy-efficient appliances in 300 homes over five years, resulting in a projected GHG reduction of 8,599 MT CO2e by 2050.Home Appliance EfficiencyThis initiative will replace outdated and non-electric appliances with energy-efficient electric models, targeting at-risk households first. The project anticipates a reduction of 13,129 MT CO2e in GHG emissions by 2050.Enhancement and Expansion of Recycling CapabilitiesMBCI plans to upgrade its recycling operations by acquiring new equipment, significantly improving efficiency, and reducing the GHG emissions associated with waste collection. This project is expected to result in a reduction of 250 MT CO2e by 2050.Biofuel Infrastructure for Improved Production and Efficiency of DistributionThe revitalization of the Choctaw Biodiesel program will focus on collecting and processing waste oil to create a cleaner fuel alternative. This initiative is projected to yield a GHG reduction of 19,434 MT CO2e by 2050. The Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG) program is an initiative funded through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). These grants are designed to provide resources to state, local governments, and Tribes to collaboratively work on reducing climate pollution. Under the Biden-Harris administration, the Environmental Protection Agency launched the CPRG with the aim of helping state, local, and Tribal governments develop and implement strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful pollutants.Learn more about EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Program.Learn more about the CPRG Implementation Phase Grant Awards.Learn more about the CPRG Implementation Grants Tribes and Territories Competition Selections. ###

EPA Announces $48,763,746 of Clean Ports Investments in Georgia Ports Authority

This week, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency have been selected to receive $334,133 in grants to provide technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention practices in local communities. The University of Minnesota Technical Assistance Program has been selected to receive $233,022 to provide technical assistance to food manufacturers, including dairies, animal processing plants, and fruit and vegetable preserving businesses. The program will work with businesses to reduce chemical discharges from clean-in-place systems, conserve water and energy in manufacturing processes, and minimize landfilling of organic waste.The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has been selected to receive $101,111 to work with metal manufacturing and fabrication businesses to reduce or eliminate the use and release of PFAS through identification and substitution of safer alternatives. MPCA will use literature reviews, data analysis, and incorporate successful technical assistance activities to identify areas for potential source reduction techniques and other options through on-site assessments.“Thanks to President Biden and Vice President Harris’ leadership, EPA has provided unprecedented support for innovative approaches that prevent pollution and protect the environment,” said EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Deputy Assistant Administrator for Pollution Prevention Jennie Romer. “Empowering businesses through these grant projects is a win-win that protects communities while also cutting costs for businesses.”“Everyone deserves to be safe from chemicals that pose a danger to our health,” said Sen. Tina Smith. “These investments in the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency make sure businesses and food manufacturers have the tools they need to prevent pollution from harmful chemicals like PFAS, conserve water and energy, protect our environment and prioritize the health of our communities.” “Minnesotans know all too well how harmful PFAS are for our air, water, and health,” said Rep. Betty McCollum. “Thanks to Democrats in Congress and the leadership of the Biden-Harris administration, our state is set to receive over $100K from the EPA to significantly reduce PFAS use in metal manufacturing. This critical funding is an important investment in the health and well-being of all Minnesotans.” In total, EPA announced 48 selectees across the country that will collectively receive nearly $19 million in grants to support states, Tribal Nations, and U.S. territories in providing technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention practices in local communities. Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, nearly half of the funds awarded this year were made available with no cost share/match requirement.Pollution prevention, also known as P2 or source reduction, is any practice that reduces, eliminates, or prevents pollution at its source prior to recycling, treatment, or disposal. Preventing pollution at the source rather than managing waste afterwards is an important way to support American business’ efforts to reduce costs, while protecting communities from exposure to toxic chemicals and conserving natural resources. These practices are essential for protecting health, improving environmental conditions–including in and around disadvantaged communities–and preserving natural resources like wetlands, groundwater sources, and other critical ecosystems. Between 2011-2022, EPA’s Pollution Prevention program issued over 500 grants totaling more than $54 million, which have helped businesses identify, develop, and adopt P2 approaches. These approaches have resulted in 31.9 billion kWh in energy savings, eliminated 20.8 million metric tons of greenhouse gases, saved 52 billion gallons of water, reduced 1 billion pounds of hazardous materials, and saved businesses more than $2.3 billion. The agency expects to award funds once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied. Once awarded, selected grantees will document and share P2 best practices that they identify and develop through these grants, so that others can replicate these practices and outcomes. Each selected grantee will also develop at least one case study during the grant period on P2 practices that are new or not widely known or adopted, or where detailed information on the P2 practices could benefit other businesses or P2 technical assistance providers.The grants funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will be fully funded upon being awarded, with individual grant awards as high as $350,000. Grants that are a part of the traditional P2 grants program will be funded over a two-year funding cycle and require a cost share/match of fifty percent. EPA’s Pollution Prevention Grant Program advances President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative which set a goal to deliver 40% of the overall benefits from certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. The full list of selections can be found below, and the selected project summaries can be found on EPA’s Pollution Prevention website.BackgroundPresident Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law made a historic $100 million investment in EPA’s P2 Program, more than doubling the funding for P2 grants. The first round of 39 awards funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was announced in September 2022 and the second round of 24 awards was announced October 2023.The list of selections can be found below, and the selected project summaries can be found on EPA’s Pollution Prevention website.Read more about P2 and EPA’s P2 Grant Program.

United States Files Court Settlement for Cleanup and Reimbursement of Costs at Iowa-Nebraska Light & Power Company Superfund Site in Norfolk, Nebraska

SAVANNAH, Ga. (Nov. 8,2024) - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle along with Savannah Mayor Van R. Johnson, Chatham County Chairman Chester Ellis and GPA President and CEO Griff Lynch held a press event highlighting the announcement of the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) as a recipient of nearly $48,763,746 through EPA’s Clean Ports Program for the deployment of zero-emission port equipment and infrastructure.GPA plans to upgrade the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick with vessel shore power systems. These systems will allow ships to ‘plug-in’ to electric grid power and turn off auxiliary diesel engines while at port. In addition, the project includes the scrappage and replacement of diesel terminal tractors with new electric terminal tractors and the installation of electric charging infrastructure. GPA plans to engage with communities through their community advisory network and conduct classroom and on the job training for workers related to shore power, zero-emission vehicles, and charging stations. The grants are funded by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act — the largest investment in combating climate change and promoting clean energy in history— and will advance environmental justice by reducing diesel air pollution from U.S. ports and near surrounding communities while promoting good-paying and union jobs that help America’s ports thrive. “Our goal is to build a foundation for the port sector to transition over time to fully zero-emissions operations,” said Acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. “EPA is positioning ports to serve as a catalyst for transformational change across the freight sector.” “Senator Warnock and I continue working to upgrade Georgia’s port infrastructure and establish Georgia as the national leader in advanced energy technology. Today we are delivering new resources through the EPA's Clean Ports program to upgrade the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick with vessel shore power systems and install new electric charging infrastructure,” said Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA). “This is a win-win for our economy and for local communities. I thank President Biden, Vice President Harris, and EPA Administrator Regan for their assistance and support." “As a son of coastal Georgia, I know the importance of Georgia’s ports and its workers to our state and national economies. As we continue moving toward a clean energy economy, it is critical Georgia and its workers remain on the frontlines of these federal investments and reap the benefits of our hard work in Washington, which is why I was proud to champion this award for the Georgia Ports Authority,” said Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA). “Senator Ossoff and I will continue delivering investments for Georgia’s ports to keep our state at the forefront of the nation’s clean energy economy.” Ports are vital to the U.S. economy and are responsible for moving goods and people throughout the country. The funds announced today will improve air quality at ports across the country by installing clean, zero-emission freight and ferry technologies along with associated infrastructure, eliminating more than 3 million metric tons of carbon pollution, equivalent to 391,220 homes' energy use for one year. In February 2024, EPA announced two separate funding opportunities for U.S. ports – a Zero-Emission Technology Deployment Competition to directly fund zero-emission equipment and infrastructure to reduce mobile source emissions and a Climate and Air Quality Planning Competition to fund climate and air quality planning activities. The competitions closed in May 2024 with over $8 billion in requests from applicants across the country seeking to advance next-generation, clean technologies at U.S. ports. After a thorough and rigorous grant application review process, EPA selected 55 applications in total to receive this historic investment. Applications to the Clean Ports Program were evaluated in part on their workforce development efforts, to ensure that projects will expand access to high-quality jobs. Grant selections also align with the Administration’s national goal for a zero-emission freight sector, the National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization and the ‘all-of government’ National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy. Selected projects cover a wide range of human operated and human maintained equipment used at and around ports, with funds supporting the purchase of battery-electric and hydrogen-powered equipment, including over 1,500 units of cargo handling equipment, 1,000 drayage trucks, 10 locomotives, and 20 vessels, as well as shore power systems, battery-electric and hydrogen vehicle charging and fueling infrastructure, and solar power generation. Initial estimates of tailpipe reductions from this new equipment are estimated to be over 3 million metric tons of CO2, 12 thousand short tons of NOx, and 200 short tons of PM2.5 in the first 10 years of operation. These estimates are based on initial counts of proposed zero-emission equipment and shore power installations and do not consider benefits from retiring older vehicles, among other factors. These simplified estimates were prepared using national default emissions and activity factors and will be refined over time with more detailed information from selectees. In addition to protecting human health and the environment, the program will protect and grow good-paying and union port jobs, create new good-paying and union jobs in the domestic clean energy sector, and enhance U.S. economic competitiveness through the innovation, installation, maintenance, and operation of zero-emissions equipment and infrastructure. The program’s historic investment in zero-emission port technology will also help promote and ensure the U.S. position as a global leader in clean technologies. EPA’s Clean Ports Program advances President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. Disadvantaged communities will benefit from cleaner air and access to high quality jobs that will be created to operate zero emissions technologies at ports. EPA ensured that near-port community engagement and equity considerations were at the forefront of the Clean Ports Program’s design, including by evaluating applications on the extent and quality of their projects’ community engagement efforts. The program will also help to ensure that meaningful community engagement and emissions reduction planning become a part of port industry standard practices by building on the successes of EPA’s Ports Initiative and the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act programs. These programs have previously invested over $196 million to implement 207 diesel emissions reduction projects at ports with an additional $88 million to multi-sector projects that involve ports and have encouraged strong community-port collaboration. The agency anticipates making awards once all legal, statutory, and administrative requirements are satisfied. Selectees will work with EPA over the coming months to finalize project plans before receiving final awards and moving into the implementation phase. Project implementation will occur over the next three to four years depending on the scope of each project. To learn more about the Clean Ports Program tentatively selected applications, please visit the Clean Ports Program Selections webpage. Left to right: Chatham County Chairman Chester Ellis, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle, Savannah Mayor Van R. Johnson, and GPA President and CEO Griff Lynch.###

EPA Announces $254,000 in Grants to Help Businesses Prevent Pollution in NY as Part of Investing in America Agenda

LENEXA, KAN. (NOV. 8, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the filing of a settlement agreement with three parties requiring the cleanup of contamination at the Iowa-Nebraska Light & Power Company Superfund Site in Norfolk, Nebraska.The settlement was filed in the United States District Court of the District of Nebraska and is subject to a 30-day public comment period and final court approval. The public comment period ends Dec. 9, 2024.Under the terms of the settlement, the parties – Brightspeed Kansas Holdings LLC, Nebraska Public Power District, and Black Hills-Nebraska Gas LLC – will complete a cleanup action that was approved by EPA in 2022.The cleanup activity will include in-place treatment of contamination, accompanied by environmental monitoring, to ensure that the cleanup meets its goals and is protective of human health and the environment. All work at the site will be subject to EPA review and approval. The settling parties will be responsible for reimbursing EPA for costs incurred in reviewing the work.The Iowa-Nebraska Light & Power Company Superfund Site includes areas where a manufactured gas plant operated until the 1940s. Generally, these types of plants produced fuel by heating coal. Soil and groundwater contamination at the site has included coal tars, compounds found in motor oils, and metals. EPA has been overseeing investigation and cleanup at the site since the 1990s.Information about how to submit a public comment is available on the Federal Register.Read more about the Iowa-Nebraska Light and Power Company Superfund Site.# # #Learn more about EPA Region 7View all Region 7 news releasesVisit the Region 7 Media pageConnect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook and InstagramFollow us on X: @EPARegion7

EPA Emergency Order Compels Havasu Water Company to Act to Protect Public Health, Ensure Safe Drinking Water

Rochester, NY – (November 11, 2024) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has selected the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) and the New York State Pollution Prevention Institute at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) to receive nearly $254,000 in grants to provide technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention (P2) practices in local communities.NYSDEC will partner with the New York State Pollution Prevention Institute at RIT to provide technical assistance to chemical manufacturing, processing, and formulation businesses. Using EPA’s Toxics Release Inventory, NYSDEC has identified businesses releasing toxic chemicals (e.g., xylene, toluene, methanol, heavy metals, nitrates) and will focus on green chemistry alternatives and training workers."By working collaboratively with NYSDEC and RIT, we are promoting sustainable practices in New York’s chemical industry,” said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia "This project not only fosters innovation but also prioritizes the health and well-being of communities that are often most affected by pollution."The project will provide comprehensive technical assistance designed to improve environmental practices during product design, manufacturing, marketing, and distribution. Key components of the initiative include: A series of workshops focused on green chemistry principles tailored for industry professionals. An industry-specific green chemistry webinar will be offered to expand reach and accessibility.Customized projects will be conducted at individual companies to implement green chemistry practices effectively.This initiative will benefit NY communities by reducing the release of toxic chemicals into the air, water, and land. By applying green chemistry principles, participants will mitigate environmental hazards and enhance human health outcomes in these vulnerable areas.The New York State Pollution Prevention Institute at RIT will foster sustainable practices in industries across New York through education, research, and technical assistance.The application of green chemistry is crucial for reducing air, water, and land releases of toxic chemicals as reported under the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) program. This initiative will not only benefit industry stakeholders but also contribute to healthier communities and a cleaner environment.In total, EPA announced 48 selectees across the country that will collectively receive nearly $19 million in grants to support states, Tribal Nations, and U.S. territories in providing technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention (P2) practices in local communities. Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, nearly half of the funds awarded this year were made available with no cost share/match requirement.Pollution prevention, also known as P2 or source reduction, is any practice that reduces, eliminates, or prevents pollution at its source prior to recycling, treatment, or disposal. Preventing pollution at the source rather than managing waste afterwards is an important way to support American business’ efforts to reduce costs, while protecting communities from exposure to toxic chemicals and conserving natural resources. The grants funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will be fully funded upon being awarded, with individual grant awards as high as $350,000. Grants that are a part of the traditional P2 grants program will be funded over a two-year funding cycle and require a cost share/match of fifty percent. EPA’s Pollution Prevention Grant Program advances President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative which set a goal to deliver 40% of the overall benefits from certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. The full list of selections can be found below, and the selected project summaries can be found on EPA’s Pollution Prevention website.BackgroundPresident Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law made a historic $100 million investment in EPA’s P2 Program, more than doubling the funding for P2 grants. The first round of 39 awards funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was announced in September 2022 and the second round of 24 awards was announced October 2023.The list of selections can be found below, and the selected project summaries can be found on EPA’s Pollution Prevention website.Read more about P2 and EPA’s P2 Grant Program.Follow EPA Region 2 on X and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.24-106

EPA Issues Compliance Order to Baltimore Metal Shredding Operation to Address Air Violations

SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an Emergency Administrative Order under the authority of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) to the Havasu Water Company. The Order, based on EPA’s mission to protect human health, comes after frequent water outages that may endanger public health because of the high potential for bacteria or other disease-causing organisms to be introduced into the company’s water distribution system.“Ensuring the safety and reliability of drinking water across all communities, regardless of their size or economic status, is a primary focus for our agency,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. "We will continue to use our full authority to protect public health and ensure compliance with drinking water standards."The emergency order compels the Havasu Water Company to make alternative water available during any incident where EPA requires distribution of Boil Water Notices, such as water outages. Since March 2022, Havasu Water Company has been under a Boil Water Notice for approximately 300 days due to water line breaks, power outages, or other incidents causing water outages and loss of pressure.The company must also develop standard operating procedures to appropriately respond to pressure loss incidents, have a third-party contractor assess the water distribution system and correct major deficiencies, and ensure certified personnel conduct essential operator duties.The order also requires Havasu Water Company to issue EPA-approved Boil Water Notices in accordance with EPA regulations and during any loss of pressure incident. During four previous water outage incidents the company did not issue such a notice, even though there was a loss of pressure in the system. The company failed to issue a timely Boil Water Notice to all customers on both occasions where EPA explicitly required it. In several instances, the company distributed misinformation to customers by using language that nullified the purpose of the required notice and by physically covering a notice posted in a public place with a letter with misinformation, despite EPA providing a template and direction for the issuance of a Boil Water Notice.This emergency action follows an administrative order issued by EPA to the Havasu Water Company on May 28, 2024, for violations of the SDWA’s National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. These violations included exceedance of the maximum contaminant level for total trihalomethanes, which are byproducts that may form during the disinfection process. The regulations set a maximum contaminant level for total trihalomethanes at 80 micrograms per liter. Long-term exposure to levels above that may lead to increased risk of cancer, along with liver, kidney, or central nervous problems. Additional Havasu Water Company violations included the company’s failure to have qualified personnel operate the water system, failure to provide required public notifications, failure to correct significant deficiencies with the system, and failure to report appropriate surface water treatment data.The Havasu Water Company is a privately-owned community water system located along the western shore of Lake Havasu and within the boundaries of the Chemehuevi Indian Reservation. The system relies on surface water filtration treatment and chlorination to serve drinking water to approximately 361 people.EPA can issue an Emergency Administrative Order to address public health endangerments concerning public water systems and underground sources of drinking water. For more information about this order and EPA’s actions, visit this website about regulatory oversight.For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations, visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.Learn about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

EPA Releases Proposed Plan for Motorola 52nd Street Superfund Cleanup in Phoenix

PHILADELPHIA (Nov. 07, 2024) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today that it has issued an administrative order on consent to Sims ARG Inc., a scrap metal shedding and recycling facility located at 3000 Vera Street, in Baltimore, Maryland. The order alleged that the facility did not obtain the necessary permit required by the federal Clean Air Act and the Maryland State Air Permitting Program.The permit is required in order to limit emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) which can contribute to ground-level ozone that can be harmful to human health. The young, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions such as asthma are especially vulnerable to the effects of ground-level ozone pollution. Test data has shown that metal shredding operations emit VOCs at rates up to 200 pounds per hour.“For far too long, metal shredding and recycling facilities have polluted the air, especially in underserved communities in urban areas,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “This action demonstrates that EPA will hold facilities accountable when they fail to take the actions necessary to meet health-based air quality standards.” The order requires the company to submit a complete permit application to the State of Maryland within 60 days of the effective date of the order.Get more information about reducing pollution from metal recycling facilities.

EPA Further Extends Public Comment Period for Proposed Final Cleanup Plan at Newark’s Diamond Alkali Superfund Site, Lister Ave. Portion

Phoenix – In a significant milestone for this Superfund cleanup, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released a proposed plan to address contaminants in the groundwater at the Motorola, Inc. 52nd Street Superfund site. The agency is seeking public input on the plan, which focuses on cleanup at a section of the site know as Operable Unit 3 (OU3). OU3 is bordered by McDowell Road to the north, 20th Street to the east, Buckeye Road to the south, and 7th Avenue to the west in Central Phoenix, Arizona. The proposed plan summarizes the risks of the contamination for human health and the environment and identifies the EPA’s preferred option for the cleanup of the contamination. It describes six cleanup options to remove contaminants that are unsafe to drink and gives the community an opportunity to review and submit comments on the EPA’s plan, including all six options. The options in this proposed plan for OU3 were formed based on current and anticipated future land use conditions within OU3, including potential future use of groundwater as drinking water.“The EPA encourages people to provide input on the proposed cleanup plan for the Motorola 52nd St. Superfund site,” said EPA Director of Region 9 Superfund and Emergency Management Division Michael Montgomery. “This is a big step forward to protect groundwater and ensure a future supply of safe drinking water for the Phoenix community.”Industrial and commercial activities caused groundwater contamination at the site. These included dry cleaning; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment manufacturing; railroad activities; semiconductor manufacturing; and aerospace and jet engine design. Releases of chemicals from these types of facilities have impacted groundwater at the site. The contaminants in groundwater at OU3 include trichloroethene (TCE), 1,4-dioxane, 1,1-dichloroethane (DCA), 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, and naphthalene. The 45-day public comment period for the proposed plan began on November 1, 2024. The EPA will host a public meeting to discuss the Proposed Plan on November 13, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm at the Burton Barr Central Library, Nina Mason Pulliam Auditorium, First Floor at 1221 N. Central Ave. in Phoenix, Arizona.Interested parties can visit EPA’s Motorola site webpage for more details on how to attend the meeting in person or online.Learn more about EPA's Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

FRIDAY: EPA to announce shore power grant award for Georgia Ports

Newark, N.J. - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has extended the public comment period for its proposal to finalize a cleanup plan for the 80-120 Lister Ave. portion of the Diamond Alkali Superfund Site in Newark, N.J. In response to community request, the deadline for submitting public comments has been extended from Nov. 12 to Nov. 26, 2024. The EPA held a public meeting on Sept. 19 to outline details of the plan and address questions from residents and stakeholders. The proposed plan calls for continued operation of the existing remedy, with improvements including reinstalling and reactivating a total of seven groundwater pumps, upgrading the current groundwater treatment system, and making any necessary repairs to the existing cap covering contaminated materials. This approach builds on the previously completed work and would avoid the short-term risks associated with other options such as digging up and removing the contaminated material outright. Written comments on the proposed plan may be submitted until Nov. 26, 2024, to Eugenia Naranjo, Remedial Project Manager, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 290 Broadway – 18th Floor, New York, NY 10007 or via email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. For additional background and to see the proposed cleanup plan, visit the Diamond Alkali Superfund site page. Follow EPA Region 2 on X and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website. 24-107

Colorado, Montana and Utah to receive over $1.6M in EPA grants to prevent pollution

SAVANNAH, Ga. (November 6, 2024) – Local media are invited to hear comments from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle, GPA President and CEO Griff Lynch and local officials at 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 8, at the Port of Savannah, Garden City Terminal. Acting Regional Administrator Gettle will announce the amount of a federal grant that will help cover the cost of providing electric power to vessels calling on the Port of Savannah. The project will give vessel operators the option of shutting off vessel engines at dock to significantly reduce carbon emissions. Media are invited to attend the announcement and interview officials. Due to the nature of this event, we ask that all media arrive at the event location no later than 10 a.m. Nov. 8. Members of the media should gather at the GPA Administrative Office, 2 Main St., Garden City, GA 31408. A port escort will guide reporters to the on-terminal event site. WHO: EPA Acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle GPA President and CEO Griff Lynch Mayor Van R. Johnson II, Mayor of Savannah Chester A. Ellis, Chatham County, Chairman WHAT: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Grant Announcement WHEN: 11 a.m., FRIDAY, NOV. 8 (Media arrival 10 a.m.) WHERE: 2 Main St., Garden City, GA 31408 MEDIA: Media representatives, please RSVP to Edward Fulford at 912.964.3806 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. ###

Biden-Harris Administration announces nearly $40 million of Clean Ports investments in Connecticut as part of Investing in America agenda

Contact: Honor Morgan, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. DENVER (November 4, 2024) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment (CDPHE), Montana State University (MSU) and University of Utah have been selected to receive over $1.6 million in grant funding to support pollution prevention practices in communities. “We’re proud to support projects that continue to help businesses develop and implement strategies to reduce hazardous material usage and improve energy and water efficiency, all while lowering business costs,” said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. “These projects highlight the important work of small businesses and the positive impact they have in preventing pollution in their communities.” Under the traditional Pollution Prevention (P2) grant program, CDPHE will receive $507,118 and partner with the Colorado Green Business Network to provide technical assistance on hazardous material reduction, energy and water efficiency, emissions reduction and waste minimization to businesses in local communities. “I’m pleased that the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment will be able to harness this funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help businesses across our state prevent pollution, avoid waste, and lower their energy costs,” said U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO). “Preventing pollution starts at the local level. Our businesses already know the importance of reducing waste, increasing energy efficiency, and emitting less,” said U.S. Senator Hickenlooper (D-CO). “Now, our BIL is helping make it all easier and more cost effective!” “Colorado has long been a leader in sustainability, and today’s announcement will drive us even closer to a pollution-free future,” said U.S. Representative Diana DeGette (CO-01). “I applaud the EPA and the Biden-Harris Administration for their commitment to Colorado’s environmental goals and for investing in the health and well-being of our communities. Together, we’re building a stronger, cleaner Colorado for generations to come." MSU will receive $406,882 under the tradition P2 grant program to provide support to food and beverage manufacturing and processing businesses with their P2 summer college intern program. Interns will provide businesses with P2 best practices and will gain valuable real-world experience in implementing P2 principles to minimize environmental impacts. Montana State University was also selected to receive $349,727 under the BIL funded P2 grant program to organize a summit of Native Science Advisors to lead and improve air quality in American Indian communities using both western science and Traditional Indigenous knowledge. The funding will also be used to continue their Ecostar award program that recognizes small businesses for their P2 efforts. Under the P2 grant program funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), the University of Utah’s (UoU) Department of Chemical Engineering will receive $350,000 to assist businesses in reducing the use of hazardous chemicals, water consumption and air emissions for a cleaner, safer and more sustainable environment. In collaboration with the Utah Department of Energy's Intermountain Industrial Assessment Center, they will provide technical assistance, resources, and training in P2 strategies. In total, EPA announced 48 selectees across the country that will collectively receive nearly $19 million in grants to support states, Tribal Nations and U.S. territories in providing technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention practices in local communities. Thanks to President Biden’s BIL, nearly half of the funds awarded this year were made available with no cost share/match requirement. Pollution prevention, also known as P2 or source reduction, is any practice that reduces, eliminates or prevents pollution at its source prior to recycling, treatment or disposal. Preventing pollution at the source rather than managing waste afterwards is an important way to support American business’ efforts to reduce costs while protecting communities from exposure to toxic chemicals and conserving natural resources. These practices are essential for protecting health, improving environmental conditions–including in and around disadvantaged communities–and preserving natural resources like wetlands, groundwater sources and other critical ecosystems. Between 2011-2022, EPA’s P2 program issued over 500 grants totaling more than $54 million, which have helped businesses identify, develop and adopt P2 approaches. These approaches have resulted in 31.9 billion kilowatts-hour in energy savings, eliminated 20.8 million metric tons of greenhouse gases, saved 52 billion gallons of water, reduced 1 billion pounds of hazardous materials and saved businesses more than $2.3 billion. Background President Biden’s BIL made a historic $100 million investment in EPA’s P2 Program, more than doubling the funding for P2 grants. The first round of 39 awards funded by BIL was announced in September 2022 and the second round of 24 awards was announced October 2023. The selected project summaries can be found on EPA’s Pollution Prevention website. Read more about P2 and EPA’s P2 Grant Program.

Will invigorated climate action hold global warming to 1.5 degrees?

BOSTON (Nov. 1, 2024) — Today, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with federal, state, and local partners celebrated that Gateway Terminal in partnership with the New Haven Port Authority, and the Connecticut Port Authority have been selected to receive nearly $40 million in total through EPA's Clean Ports Program to support the deployment of zero-emission port equipment and infrastructureEnstructure New Haven Holdings' Gateway Terminal, in partnership with the New Haven Port Authority in Connecticut, has been selected to receive an anticipated $34,032,340 for the purchase and deployment of zero-emission cargo handling equipment with supporting charging infrastructure, as well as rooftop solar generation and battery energy storage systems to supplement grid power for the mobile equipment. The project also includes scrapping several pieces of diesel-powered cargo handling equipment to reduce air pollution at the port and in the surrounding area. Training on the all-electric equipment will be provided to the existing workforce, and the community will be engaged in project implementation and in sourcing workers for new good-paying jobs. Gateway recently joined Green Marine, a voluntary environmental benchmarking and continuous improvement program, which requires participants to annually measure, certify and publish their performance indicators, including emissions reduction and community relations.The Connecticut Port Authority has been selected to receive an anticipated $5,357,103 to acquire a mobile shore power unit and install supporting shore power infrastructure at the New London State Pier. The project will reduce diesel emissions by providing power to vessels at berth, enabling docked marine vessels to connect to the local electric grid to power onboard services instead of running their diesel engines, thereby decreasing health risks and noise pollution for port workers and the near-port communities. The State Pier was recently upgraded to enable it to serve as a marshalling port for offshore wind facility operations. CPA will engage stakeholders in New London to increase public awareness education, and ongoing communication. A workforce training program developed in coordination with unions and other stakeholders will help prepare the local labor force to fill high-quality jobs created by this project.The grants are funded by President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act—the largest investment in combating climate change and promoting clean energy in history—and will advance environmental justice by reducing diesel air pollution from U.S. ports and near surrounding communities while promoting good-paying and union jobs that help America's ports thrive."Our nation's ports are critical to creating opportunity here in America, offering good-paying jobs, moving goods, and powering our economy," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "Today's historic $3 billion investment builds on President Biden's vision of growing our economy while ensuring America leads in globally competitive solutions of the future. Delivering cleaner technologies and resources to U.S. ports will slash harmful air and climate pollution while protecting people who work in and live nearby ports communities.""Ports are vital to our economy, and are often communities that are most overburdened by pollution. Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, we are helping to ensure that our New England ports remain strong drivers of economic growth and workforce development, while cutting diesel pollution, tackling climate change, and improving community health," said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Whether it's deploying zero-emission equipment in Connecticut or planning the best path forward to a zero-emissions future in Maine or Massachusetts, these investments will improve the air we breathe, protect the health of our families, and support good-paying jobs for America's workers.""This milestone investment will make our ports cleaner and healthier – using zero-emission equipment. Stopping air pollution while modernizing and enhancing port facilities is a gigantic win for both our environment and economy. Communities around the ports will have better air and jobs," said U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal."Our ports are the driving force behind Connecticut's blue economy, but the diesel-powered equipment we use to move goods through them is polluting nearby communities and taking a toll on public health. By replacing aging, polluting equipment with cleaner, zero-emission alternatives, this $39 million in federal funding will help keep ports in New Haven and New London running smoothly while improving quality of life, creating good-paying jobs, and moving us closer to achieving our climate goals," said U.S. Senator Chris Murphy."I am pleased to announce that Gateway Terminals and the Connecticut Port Authority will receive vital grant funding that will reduce diesel emissions, lower health risks and noise pollution for port workers and near-port communities, and decrease pollution in the Long Island Sound," said U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro. "In New Haven, Gateway Terminal will be using this funding to replace four aging diesel-powered cranes with all-electric machines, deploy 10 all-electric tractors for terminal drayage services, and install solar infrastructure. These efforts will reduce their reliance on the electric grid and the need for fossil fuel dependency while greatly improving air quality for residents of the City.""The redevelopment and modernization of State Pier New London in 2019 dramatically increased its square footage and weight bearing capacity, with an eye to both increased cargo activity, as well as wind turbine assembly. With this $5 million new federal investment funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, the pier can now install zero-emission power equipment so that docked ships can power onboard services. This upgrade will keep New London State Pier competitive with the maritime industry and protect water quality in the Thames River," said U.S. Representative Joe Courtney."This transformative grant will accelerate our transition to clean, electric-powered equipment and infrastructure at the Gateway Terminal. This investment will allow us to reduce diesel consumption and position our terminal at the forefront of sustainable port operations," said Enstructure Co-CEO's Philippe De Montigny and Matthew Satnick. "This investment is pivotal in advancing our terminal's efficiency and a cleaner future for the entire New Haven community. We would like to thank our partners at the New Haven Port Authority, the Environmental Protection Agency, Senators Blumenthal and Murphy, and Representative DeLauro for their support on this critical effort.""The Connecticut Port Authority, Ørsted and Gateway are thrilled to be selected by the EPA's Clean Ports Program to help bring our shore power project to life at New London State Pier," said Paul Whitescarver, Board Chair of the Connecticut Port Authority. "Working together, we've transformed the State Pier into a state-of-the-art offshore wind hub and put hundreds of Connecticut residents to work. Now, by allowing docked vessels to connect directly to the local power grid, this project will further modernize the facility while decreasing emissions and improving local air quality. We thank our local partners and supporters of this project, and we look forward to continuing our investments in Connecticut's economy and clean energy future."Ports are vital to the U.S. economy and are responsible for moving goods and people throughout the country. At the same time, the port and freight equipment responsible for moving goods—including trucks, locomotives, marine vessels, and cargo-handling equipment—contribute to significant levels of diesel air pollution at and near port facilities. This pollution is especially harmful to nearby communities' health and contributes to climate change. The funds announced today will improve air quality at ports across the country by installing clean, zero-emission freight and ferry technologies along with associated charging infrastructure, eliminating more than 3 million metric tons of carbon pollution, equivalent to 391,220 homes' energy use for one year.In February 2024, EPA announced two separate funding opportunities for U.S. ports—a Zero-Emission Technology Deployment Competition to directly fund zero-emission equipment and infrastructure to reduce mobile source emissions, and a Climate and Air Quality Planning Competition to fund climate and air quality planning activities. The competitions closed in May 2024 with over $8 billion in requests from applicants across the country seeking to advance next-generation, clean technologies at U.S. ports.After a thorough and rigorous grant application review process, EPA selected 55 applications in total to receive this historic investment. Applications to the Clean Ports Program were evaluated in part on their workforce development efforts, to ensure that projects will expand access to high-quality jobs. Grant selections also align with the Administration's national goal for a zero-emission freight sector, the National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization, and the 'all-of government' National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy.Selected projects cover a wide range of human-operated and human-maintained equipment used at and around ports, with funds supporting the purchase of battery-electric and hydrogen-powered equipment, including over 1,500 units of cargo handling equipment, 1,000 drayage trucks, 10 locomotives, and 20 vessels, as well as shore power systems to reduce vessel emissions at berth, battery-electric and hydrogen vehicle charging and fueling infrastructure, and solar power generation.Initial estimates of tailpipe reductions from this new equipment are estimated to be over 3 million metric tons of CO2, 12 thousand short tons of NOx, and 200 short tons of PM2.5 in the first 10 years of operation. These estimates are based on initial counts of proposed zero-emission equipment and shore power installations and do not consider benefits from retiring older vehicles, among other factors. These simplified estimates were prepared using national default emissions and activity factors and will be refined over time with more detailed information from selectees.In addition to protecting human health and the environment, the program will protect and grow good-paying and union port jobs, create new good-paying and union jobs in the domestic clean energy sector, and enhance U.S. economic competitiveness through innovation, installation, maintenance, and operation of zero-emissions equipment and infrastructure. The program's historic investment in zero-emission port technology will also help promote and ensure the U.S. position as a global leader in clean technologies.EPA's Clean Ports Program advances President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. Disadvantaged communities will benefit from cleaner air and access to high quality jobs that will be created to operate zero emissions technologies at ports.EPA ensured that near-port community engagement and equity considerations were at the forefront of the Clean Ports Program's design, including by evaluating applications on the extent and quality of their projects' community engagement efforts. The program will also help to ensure that meaningful community engagement and emissions reduction planning become a part of port industry standard practices by building on the successes of EPA's Ports Initiative and the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act programs. These programs have previously invested over $196 million to implement 207 diesel emissions reduction projects at ports with an additional $88 million to multi-sector projects that involve ports and have encouraged strong community-port collaboration.The agency anticipates making awards once all legal, statutory, and administrative requirements are satisfied. Selectees will work with EPA over the coming months to finalize project plans before receiving final awards and moving into the implementation phase. Project implementation will occur over the next three to four years depending on the scope of each project.To learn more about the Clean Ports Program tentatively selected applications, please visit the Clean Ports Program Selections webpage.

Texas Climate News

Katharine Hayhoe named chief scientist at the Nature Conservancy

Everything will have to go right to confine atmospheric heating to that desired limit and avoid harsher impacts, climate scientists say. But even coming close to 1.5 C would mean a much better future for life on the planet.

How Texas froze: Neglect of power-grid and climate warnings set the icy stage

The Texas Tech faculty member, a prominent climate-change researcher and communicator, will also be responsible for the international nonprofit’s “wider portfolio of global climate advocacy and adaptation work.”

What to make of old-fashioned Texas cold, snow in a 21st-century climate?

State officials’ repeated failure to act on deeply researched advice for averting grid catastrophes paralleled Texas’ years-long non-response to experts’ repeated warnings about the dangers of climate change.

Houston-Galveston’s record overnight temps typified global warming in 2020

A winter storm warning covered all of Texas on Valentine's Day. Science deniers have cited such episodes to cast doubt on global warming. But extremely cold temperatures still occur in a generally warming world.

Biden moves quickly to begin undoing Trump’s climate and energy policies

2020 basically tied with 2016 as Earth's hottest year on record. Troubling implications for people's health were evident in Texas and many other places. More research underscored health concerns about the climate crisis.

Federal rules, international pressure may finally snuff methane flaring

From rejoining the Paris Climate Agreement to canceling the Keystone pipeline to halting leasing in Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife refuge, the new administration embarked on a bold turn-around for the country.

From our archives: The impact of historic December images of Earth

Texas regulators have consistently allowed the controversial practice at oil and gas wells, which contributes to manmade climate change. Voters in November rejected a Democratic candidate who called for tougher state regulation.

Governo Biden-Harris anuncia mais de US$ 325 milhões em subsídios para mudanças comunitárias na justiça ambiental e climática

The period around the Winter Solstice has been an occasion for reflection and celebration for millennia. In recent times, it was also when astronauts took photos of Earth that helped animate planetary consciousness.

Climate Change from EPA

EPA Announces Nearly $20 Million in Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grants for Tribes in the Midwest

WASHINGTON – Hoje, dia 25 de julho de 2024, a Agência de Proteção Ambiental dos EUA anunciou mais de US$ 325 milhões em financiamento para 21 projetos aprovados para ajudar comunidades menos favorecidas a enfrentar desafios de justiça ambiental e climática. Os projetos visam reduzir a poluição, aumentar a resiliência climática das comunidades e fortalecer a capacitação da comunidade. Viabilizado pela Lei de Redução da Inflação do Presidente Biden, o Programa de Subsídios para a Mudança Comunitária é o maior investimento em justiça ambiental e climática da história. O anúncio da alocação dos recursos de hoje é a primeira parte dos quase US$ 2 bilhões do programa, que foi elaborado com base nas contribuições da comunidade para conceder subsídios de forma contínua.Essas propostas selecionadas são as primeiras a serem contempladas pelo processo de inscrição em fluxo contínuo do Programa de Subsídios para a Mudança Comunitária. Elaborado com base em um sólido envolvimento das partes interessadas e no feedback da comunidade, o processo inovador de inscrições em fluxo contínuo garantirá que os candidatos tenham tempo suficiente para se preparar e usufruir dessa oportunidade histórica. A Notificação de Oportunidade de Financiamento (NOFO), do Programa de Subsídios para Mudança Comunitária, administrado pelo Gabinete de Justiça Ambiental e Direitos Civis Externos, ainda está aceitando inscrições até o dia 21 de novembro de 2024. A EPA continuará analisando as solicitações e anunciando os projetos selecionados de forma contínua. “Nossa capacidade de oferecer resultados concretos para as comunidades depende de ouvir suas necessidades e desenvolver soluções inovadoras por meio de um engajamento inclusivo com as partes interessadas”, afirmou o Gestor da EPA, Michael S. Regan. “Hoje, graças à Lei de Redução da Inflação do presidente Biden, a EPA selecionou o primeiro grupo de parcerias comunitárias para resolver desafios atuais e de longa data relacionados à justiça ambiental e climática.” “Os subsídios de presente colocam as comunidades no comando da jornada para corrigir os erros ambientais do passado e construir, de forma autônoma, um futuro voltado para a energia limpa”, declarou John Podesta, Conselheiro Sênior do Presidente para Política Climática Internacional.“A iniciativa Investindo na América, do presidente Biden, ampliou nossos esforços para proporcionar justiça ambiental às comunidades que foram negligenciadas por muito tempo”, comentou Brenda Mallory, presidente do Conselho de Qualidade Ambiental da Casa Branca. “Como parte da Iniciativa Justice40, do Presidente, esses subsídios ajudarão comunidades menos favorecidas a enfrentar os desafios de justiça ambiental e climática que enfrentam, reduzindo a poluição, aumentando a resiliência aos impactos das mudanças climáticas e fortalecendo a capacidade das comunidades para levar esses projetos adiante.”A Lei de Redução da Inflação destina US$ 3 bilhões à EPA para conceder subsídios que auxiliam comunidades menos favorecidas e proporcionam auxílio técnico. Com esses subsídios, a EPA está cumprindo essa missão. Os Subsídios para Mudança Comunitária também cumprem o compromisso do Presidente Biden de promover a igualdade e a justiça em todo os EUA por meio da Iniciativa Justice40, que visa garantir que 40% dos benefícios totais de certos investimentos federais sejam destinados a comunidades menos favorecidas, que convivem com a falta de investimentos e com os efeitos nocivos da poluição. Alguns exemplos de subsídios desta primeira etapa seleção são:Quase US$ 20 milhões para a Associação de Recursos Energéticos Tribais do Meio-Oeste (MTERA, na sigla em inglês) e para a Grid Alternatives para a implementação de projetos de melhorias de eficiência energética e climatização em 35 comunidades de povos originários de Michigan, Minnesota e Wisconsin, melhorando a qualidade do ar em ambientes fechados para as famílias e oferecendo treinamento de desenvolvimento de liderança para os Campeões da Energia dos Povos Originários indicados. Em maio, a MTERA também recebeu um subsídio de US$ 62 milhões do programa Energia Solar Para Todos (em inglês, Solar for All), da EPA.US$ 20 milhões para a Aliança para o Desenvolvimento Comunitário Responsável e para o Instituto Técnico-Comercial de Los Angeles para desenvolver treinamentos em justiça ambiental para redução de chumbo, soldagem, manutenção de veículos híbridos e elétricos, climatização de ambientes residenciais e auditorias de energia residencial. Com a concessão desse subsídio, espera-se que os projetos aprovados concluam ações de redução de chumbo em mais de 600 unidades residenciais no sul de Los Angeles. Mais de US$ 14 milhões para a Universidade Texas A&M e para o Programa de Águas Residuais Não Incorporadas do Cinturão Negro destinados à instalação local de sistemas de tratamento de águas residuais em 17 condados do Cinturão Negro, no Alabama. Regan, Gestor da EPA, já havia visitado o Condado de Lowndes, no Alabama, onde as fossas sépticas com defeito e o esgoto canalizado das casas para os quintais provocaram uma crise de saúde pública na região. Essa comunidade também recebeu um empréstimo 100% subsidiado de US$ 8,7 milhões da Lei de Infraestrutura Bipartidária para enfrentar os problemas graves de esgoto que afetam as famílias que moram na região. Aproximadamente US$ 14 milhões para o Núcleo de Conservação de Pittsburgh e para o PowerCorpsPHL, para expandir os programas de capacitação profissional relacionados à silvicultura urbana e à redução de resíduos de madeira, expandindo a cobertura de árvores na Filadélfia e em Pittsburgh e evitando que os resíduos de madeira sejam depositados em aterros sanitários. Este subsídio também inclui recursos para utilizar biochar na redução da poluição por chumbo nos solos de Pittsburgh. A Fase I do programa, denominada Investimentos Comunitários para a Mudança, deve conceder aproximadamente US$ 1,96 bilhões para 150 projetos, com valores entre US$ 10 e 20 milhões cada. Os 17 candidatos da Fase I que estão implementando projetos em escala comunitária para enfrentar desafios de justiça ambiental e climática são:A Universidade A&M do Texas e o Programa de Águas Residuais Não Incorporadas de Black Belt (condados de Wilcox/Hale/Lowndes, AL)O município de Bakersfield e a iniciativa Construindo Comunidades Saudáveis, em Kern (Bakersfield, CA)O Centro de Aconselhamento La Familia S/A e Projeto de Recursos Comunitários (Sacramento, CA)A Aliança para o Desenvolvimento Comunitário Responsável e Faculdade Técnica de Comércio de Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA)A Fundação San Diego e a Aliança de Saúde Ambiental (San Diego, CA)Day One e Active SGV (San Gabriel Valley, CA)A Cidade de Pocatello e a Fundação Portneuf Greenway (Pocatello, ID)A Universidade de Dillard e a United Way of Southeast Louisiana (Southeast LA)A Cidade de Springfield e o Instituto de Saúde Pública do Oeste de Massachusetts (Springfield, MA)A Associação de Recursos Energéticos dos Povos Originários do Meio-Oeste e a Grid Alternatives (MI, MN, WI)O Sistema MetroHealth e a Soluções de Habitação Comunitária (Cleveland, OH)Condado de Lane, Oregon e a United Way do Condado de Lane (Condado de Lane, OR)O Núcleo de Conservação de Pittsburgh e o PowerCorpsPHL (Pittsburgh/Filadélfia, PA)A Associação para Terras Públicas e Cidade de Chattanooga (Chattanooga, TN)A Cidade de Houston e a National Black United Fund (Houston, TX)A Associação da Universidade Gonzaga e a Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners (Spokane, WA)Fundação Nacional de Habitação e Centro do Direito da Criança de Washington, D.C. (Washington, D.C.)Já na Modalidade II, Envolvimento significativo para governança equitativa, espera-se que sejam concedidos aproximadamente US$ 40 milhões para 20 projetos de US$ 1 a 3 milhões cada. Os candidatos da Fase II que facilitarão a participação individual e comunitária nos processos de tomada de decisão governamental são:Insight Garden Program e Ella Baker Center for Human Rights (vários locais na Califórnia)O The Trust for Public Land e o See You At The Top (Cleveland, OH)O Special Service for Groups, Inc. e o Center for Asian Americans United for Self Empowerment (Los Angeles, CA)A Bronx River Alliance, Inc. e o Youth Ministries for Peace and Justice (Condado do Bronx, NY)Dos 21 projetos aprovados, três são para Áreas de Investimento-alvo identificadas na NOFO. O subsídio de Áreas de Investimento-alvo tem como objetivo garantir que o financiamento do Programa Subsídios para a Mudança Comunitária seja direcionado a comunidades menos favorecidas com situações, circunstâncias geográficas e necessidades únicas.Consulte a lista completa das 21 organizações que começaram a receber um subsídio do CCGP e saiba mais sobre o CCGP.Como o Programa de Subsídios para a Mudança Comunitária ainda está aceitando inscrições até o dia 21 de novembro de 2024, a EPA incentiva os candidatos a submeterem seus projetos para apreciação assim que atenderem completamente aos requisitos do NOFO. A EPA fará selecionará outros projetos em um fluxo de inscrições contínuo até o fim de 2024. A EPA também incentiva os candidatos interessados a solicitar auxílio técnico o mais rápido possível, pois o último dia para solicitar novo auxílio técnico é o dia 16 de agosto de 2024.Leia o NOFO do Programa de Subsídios para a Mudança Comunitária na página do Programa de Subsídios para Mudança Comunitária da Lei de Redução da Inflação da EPA. Para saber mais sobre os Subsídios para Mudança Comunitária e a sobre o Auxílio Técnico, acesse a página do Programa de Subsídios para a Mudança Comunitária da Lei de Redução da Inflação da EPA.Para saber mais sobre o tema da justiça ambiental na EPA, acesse a página de Justiça ambiental da EPA. Para obter informações atualizadas sobre o NOFO, inclusive informações sobre os webinars, cadastre-se no listserv do Gabinete de Justiça Ambiental e Direitos Civis Externos enviando um e-mail em branco para: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Acompanhe nossas atualizações no X (antigo Twitter): @EPAEnvJustice.

EPA Announces Nearly $1 Million to Support Involving South Bronx Communities in Climate Resiliency Planning

Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced $19,760,488 in funding for Midwest Tribal Energy Resources Association Inc. to help disadvantaged communities tackle environmental and climate justice challenges through projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity. Made possible by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, the Community Change Grants Program is the single largest investment in environmental and climate justice in history. The funding announcement today is the first of nearly $2 billion from the program that was designed based on community input to award grants on a rolling basis. MTERA and other selected applications are the first to come under the Community Change Grants Program’s rolling application process. Informed by robust stakeholder engagement and community feedback, the innovative rolling application process will ensure that applicants have ample time to prepare and take advantage of this historic resource. The Community Change Grants Program notice of funding opportunity, administered through EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights, is still accepting applications through November 21. EPA will continue to review applications and announce selections on a rolling basis.  “Our ability to deliver tangible results for communities depends on listening to them and developing innovative solutions through inclusive stakeholder engagement,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Today, thanks to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, EPA has selected the first cohort of community partnerships to solve emerging and longstanding environmental and climate justice challenges.” “Engaging communities on the front lines of climate and environmental issues is a cornerstone of EPA’s commitment to Environmental Justice,” said EPA Regional Administrator Debra Shore. “These communities have been overburdened for too long and that divide is only growing as climate change worsens. These grants are an opportunity to work together and address core environmental issues for our EJ communities.” MTERA and Grid Alternatives will work with 35 federally recognized Tribes in Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin to support energy efficiency and weatherization upgrades in homes to improve indoor air quality and lower energy costs. They will invest in leadership development training for “Tribal energy champions” to build their Tribes’ capacity to access additional funding sources and implement projects to strengthen climate resilience and reduce pollution. “Tribal communities are the original stewards of this land, who better to lead environmental innovation? This money will help Tribes in Minnesota build on their track record of innovation and their commitment to caring for our environment through helping people achieve better indoor air quality in their homes, lower energy costs, and training on how to build a healthier, more resilient community,” said Senator Tina Smith. “Michigan’s native tribes deserve equitable access to resources that will ensure their communities thrive. I am so pleased the Midwest Tribal Energy Resources Association, which includes tribes from Michigan, are among the recipients of a Community Change Grant through the Inflation Reduction Act,” said Rep. Hillary Scholten. “This grant will help tribes combat the effects of climate change with support for energy efficiency and weatherization upgrades, cutting costs and keeping money in our communities. Our tribes will be more equipped with the tools they need to forge a more climate conscious tomorrow.” "We have long recognized that building Tribal staffing capacity is crucial for successful Tribal energy development,” said MTERA Chairman Daniel Wiggins Jr. “However, most grants focus solely on infrastructure deployment. This grant from the EPA is truly transformative, allowing us to invest in Tribal capacity development while simultaneously unlocking new energy efficiency projects for our Tribal communities. We are deeply grateful for the EPA's support in empowering Tribes.” The Inflation Reduction Act provides $3 billion to EPA to award grants that help disadvantaged communities and offer technical assistance. With these grants, EPA is delivering on this mission. The Community Change Grants also deliver on President Biden’s commitment to advance equity and justice throughout the United States through his Justice40 Initiative to ensure that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments go to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. Track I of the program, Community-Driven Investments for Change, is expected to award approximately $1.96 billion for 150 projects for $10-20 million each. Track II, Meaningful Engagement for Equitable Governance, is expected to award approximately $40 million for 20 projects for $1-3 million each. Track II applicants who will facilitate individual and community participation in governmental decision-making processes are: See the full listing of the initial 21 organizations receiving a CCGP grant and learn more about CCGP. The Community Change Grants Program is still accepting applications through November 21, so EPA encourages applicants to submit applications as soon as they completely meet the NOFO requirements. EPA will be making additional selections on a rolling basis for the remainder of 2024. EPA also encourages interested applicants to apply for technical assistance as soon as possible, as the last day to request new technical assistance is August 16, 2024. Read the Community Change Grants NOFO here: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/inflation-reduction-act-community-change-grants-program. To learn more about the Community Change Grants and Technical Assistance: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/inflation-reduction-act-community-change-grants-program To learn more about environmental justice at EPA, visit: https://www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice For up-to-date information, including information on webinars, subscribe to the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights’ listserv by sending a blank email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): @EPAEnvJustice.

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $13.9 million to Pennsylvania in Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grants

NEW YORK— Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced close to $1 million in funding for one selected application to help environmentally over-burdened communities tackle environmental and climate justice challenges through projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity. Made possible by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, the Community Change Grants Program is the single largest investment in environmental and climate justice in history. The funding announcement today is the first tranche of nearly $2 billion from the program that was designed based on community input to award grants on a rolling basis.  In this first round, EPA has selected the Bronx River Alliance with Youth Ministries for Peace and Justice as a partner to receive almost $1 million to convene a Bronx Climate Justice Task Force to ensure that communities have a voice in decisions made that will shape the future of climate resiliency in the Bronx. The taskforce will ensure that disadvantaged communities in the Bronx will be able to fully participate in planning and implementation decisions about coastal adaptation, habitat restoration, and related local, state, and federal infrastructure projects.      “Our ability to deliver tangible results for communities depends on listening to them and developing innovative solutions through inclusive stakeholder engagement,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Today, thanks to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, EPA has selected the first cohort of community partnerships to solve emerging and longstanding environmental and climate justice challenges.”   “We congratulate the Bronx River Alliance and their partner Youth Ministries for Peace and Justice for being selected as a recipient of the Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grants to continue advancing and shaping climate justice and resiliency in the Bronx,” said Lisa F. Garcia, EPA Regional Administrator. “This grant of nearly 1 million dollars will create a Bronx Climate Justice Task Force that will help residents fully engage in planning processes and decisions related to adaptation, infrastructure projects, and more.”  New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “The Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act is making a difference in the lives of New Yorkers most affected by pollution and climate change. The investments complement the critical work DEC and our many partners are doing to help ensure equity and justice in the Bronx and across the state. We applaud EPA administrator Regan and Regional Administrator Garcia for this latest $1 million to help support environmental justice organizations on the front lines of creating positive change in their community.”  “This critical federal grant, made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act I led to passage, will help the Bronx River Alliance, in partnership with Youth Ministries for Peace and Justice, convene a Bronx Climate Justice Task Force that will ensure disadvantaged communities in the Bronx have a voice in climate justice projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. “I’m proud to have fought for the Inflation Reduction Act, the single largest investment in environmental and climate justice in history, and for funding opportunities like this, to give environmentally over-burdened communities a boost in the urgent fight against climate change.” “I want to wish a heartfelt congratulations to The Bronx River Alliance and Youth Ministries for Peace and Justice on receiving this crucial federal funding! This recognition of their work underscores the importance of collaborative initiatives in advancing climate resilience within our community. This effort not only addresses immediate climate-related challenges faced by Bronxites; it lays a foundation for future generations by implementing systemic solutions. Today's news is a significant stride towards shaping a sustainable and thriving future for all in the Bronx,” said Representative Ritchie Torres (NY-15).    "We are incredibly thankful and excited to be a recipient of President Biden’s EPA Community Change awards. With this federal funding, we will be able to uplift longstanding environmental needs of under-resourced and disadvantaged communities in a borough of 1.5 million residents,” said The Bronx River Alliance Executive Director Siddhartha Sánchez. We will prioritize investments that build our community’s resilience to climate change through catalytic ecological restoration projects throughout the Bronx. By convening a Bronx Climate Justice Task Force to spearhead these initiatives, Bronx communities will be given a meaningful voice in government decision-mating processes, addressing historical gaps in equity and mitigating critical environmental and climate injustices."  The selected application is the first to come under the Community Change Grants Program’s rolling application process to New York City.  The innovative rolling application process will ensure that applicants have ample time to prepare and take advantage of this historic resource. The Community Change Grants Program Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), administered through EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights, is still accepting applications through November 21, 2024. EPA will continue to review applications and announce selections on a rolling basis.   The Community Change Grants also deliver on President Biden’s commitment to advance equity and justice throughout the United States through his Justice40 Initiative to ensure that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments go to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.  See the full listing of the initial 21 organizations receiving a CCGP grant and learn more about CCGP.  The Community Change Grants Program is still accepting applications through November 21, 2024, so EPA encourages applicants to submit applications as soon as they completely meet the NOFO requirements.  EPA will be making additional selections on a rolling basis for the remainder of 2024. EPA also encourages interested applicants to apply for technical assistance as soon as possible, as the last day to request new technical assistance is August 16, 2024.  Read the Community Change Grants NOFO here: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/inflation-reduction-act-community-change-grants-program.   To learn more about the Community Change Grants and Technical Assistance: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/inflation-reduction-act-community-change-grants-program  To learn more about environmental justice at EPA, visit: https://www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice  For up-to-date information about the NOFO, including information on the webinars, subscribe to the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights’ listserv by sending a blank email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): @EPAEnvJustice.  Follow EPA Region 2 on X and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website. 24-059

EPA announces $16 million environmental and climate justice community change grant to Pocatello, ID

PHILADELPHIA— Today, July 25, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced $13.9 million in funding coming to Pennsylvania to help disadvantaged communities tackle environmental and climate justice challenges through projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity. Made possible by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, the Community Change Grants Program is the single largest investment in environmental and climate justice in history. The funding announcement today is the first tranche of nearly $2 billion from the program that was designed based on community input to award grants on a rolling basis.In Pennsylvania, nearly $14 million is being awarded to the Pittsburgh Conservation Corps and PowerCorpsPHL to work in disadvantaged neighborhoods in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia to expand and create critical infrastructure for upcycling and commercializing materials from urban tree waste. The project will offer workforce development and training for area residents to provide career pathways in land stewardship services and wood products.These selected applications are the first to come under the Community Change Grants Program’s rolling application process. Informed by robust stakeholder engagement and community feedback, the innovative rolling application process will ensure that applicants have ample time to prepare and take advantage of this historic resource. The Community Change Grants Program Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), administered through EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights, is still accepting applications through November 21, 2024. EPA will continue to review applications and announce selections on a rolling basis. “Our ability to deliver tangible results for communities depends on listening to them and developing innovative solutions through inclusive stakeholder engagement,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Today, thanks to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, EPA has selected the first cohort of community partnerships to solve emerging and longstanding environmental and climate justice challenges.” "These organizations recognized a need and took the steps to make their communities stronger now and in the future. This funding is a boost towards a cleaner environment while also building community capacity and addressing environmental justice”, said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. "We will continue to partner with these groups and look forward to watching the progress that will be made."The Community Change Grants also deliver on President Biden’s commitment to advance equity and justice throughout the United States through his Justice40 Initiative to ensure that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments go to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. See the full listing of the initial 21 organizations receiving a CCGP grant and learn more about CCGP here: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/community-change-grants-selections. The Community Change Grants Program is still accepting applications through November 21, 2024, so EPA encourages applicants to submit applications as soon as they completely meet the NOFO requirements. EPA will be making additional selections on a rolling basis for the remainder of 2024. EPA also encourages interested applicants to apply for technical assistance as soon as possible, as the last day to request new technical assistance is August 16, 2024.Read the Community Change Grants NOFO here: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/inflation-reduction-act-community-change-grants-program. To learn more about the Community Change Grants and Technical Assistance: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/inflation-reduction-act-community-change-grants-programTo learn more about environmental justice at EPA, visit: https://www.epa.gov/environmentaljusticeFor up-to-date information about the NOFO, including information on the webinars, subscribe to the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights’ listserv by sending a blank email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): @EPAEnvJustice.###

바이든-해리스 행정부, 환경 기후 정의 지역사회 변화 보조금으로 3억 2,500만 달러 이상 발표

SEATTLE — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced $16,465,618 in environmental and climate justice community change grant funding for the City of Pocatello, Idaho and Portneuf Greenway Foundation. Pocatello’s grant application is among 21 applications selected to receive funding to help disadvantaged communities tackle environmental and climate justice challenges through projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity. The City of Pocatello and Portneuf Greenway Foundation plan to implement a series of projects to revitalize the city’s South 5th Avenue corridor. They will invest in water infrastructure by installing sewer lines in unsewered neighborhoods and more than 50 drinking water stations. They plan to transform three miles of South 5th Avenue into a “complete street” and install a 6-mile trail connecting South 5th Avenue to existing green space. They also will expand tree canopy and invest in stormwater management at local parks. “We’re proud to announce the first round of Community Change grant selections to support environmental justice and more equitable communities,” said EPA Regional Administrator Casey Sixkiller. “This funding from the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act will help improve water quality, support new tree canopy, and provide new recreational opportunities. By funding these community-driven solutions, we are supporting local environmental priorities that will make a meaningful difference in supporting public health and environmental quality.” “The City of Pocatello is excited to receive this grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to make vital improvements along our South 5th corridor,” said Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad. “We look forward to implementing these community-driven projects that will help transform one of our disadvantaged neighborhoods and bring opportunities to Pocatello as a whole.” These selected applications are the first to come under the Community Change Grants Program’s rolling application process designed to ensure that applicants have ample time to prepare and take advantage of this historic resource. The Community Change Grants Program Notice of Funding Opportunity is still accepting applications through November 21. EPA will continue to review applications and announce selections on a rolling basis and encourages applicants to submit applications as soon as they completely meet the program requirements. EPA will be making additional selections for the remainder of 2024. EPA also encourages interested applicants to apply for technical assistance as soon as possible, as the last day to request new technical assistance is August 16. Learn more about the Community Change Grants and Technical Assistance: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/inflation-reduction-act-community-change-grants-program For up-to-date information about the NOFO, including information on the webinars, subscribe to the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights’ listserv by sending a blank email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): @EPAEnvJustice.

EPA to Complete Major Phase of Cleanup at Former Unimatic Manufacturing Corp. Building

워싱턴 – 오늘, 2024년 7월 25일, 미국 환경보호국은 빈곤한 지역사회가 오염을 줄이고 지역사회의 기후 회복력을 높이며 지역사회 역량을 구축하는 프로젝트를 통해 환경 및 기후 정의 문제를 해결할 수 있도록 지원하기 위해 선정된 21개 신청에 대해 3억 2,500만 달러 이상의 자금을 지원한다고 발표했습니다. 바이든 대통령의 인플레이션 감축 법안으로 가능해진 지역사회 변화 보조금 프로그램은 환경 및 기후 정의에서 역사상 단일 최대 투자입니다. 오늘 자금 지원 발표는 신청한 지역사회에 선착순으로 보조금을 지급하도록 설계된 프로그램에서 거의 20억 달러에 달하는 첫 번째 트란쉐입니다.이렇게 선정된 신청은 지역사회 변화 보조금 프로그램의 선착순 신청 프로세스를 따르는 첫 번째 신청입니다. 확고한 이해관계자의 참여와 지역사회의 피드백에 따라 혁신적인 선착순 신청 프로세스는 신청자가 이 역사적인 자원을 준비하고 활용할 충분한 시간을 갖도록 보장합니다. 환경 정의 및 외부 시민권 부서를 통해 관리되는 지역사회 변화 보조금 프로그램 재정지원공고(NOFO)는 2024년 11월 21일까지 계속 신청을 받고 있습니다. EPA는 계속해서 신청을 검토하고 선착순으로 선정을 발표할 것입니다.EPA의 Michael S. Regan 행정관은 "지역사회에 실체적인 결과를 제공할 수 있는 당국의 역량은 지역사회의 의견을 듣고 포괄적인 이해관계자의 참여를 통해 혁신적인 해결책을 개발하는 데 달려 있습니다."라고 말하면서, "오늘, EPA는 바이든 대통령의 인플레이션 감축 법안 덕분에 새롭게 부상하고 오래 동안 계속되는 환경 및 기후 정의 문제를 해결하기 위한 최초의 지역사회 협력군을 선정했습니다."라고 했습니다.국제 기후 정책의 대통령 수석 고문, John Podesta는 "오늘의 보조금은 지역사회가 과거의 환경적 잘못을 바로잡고 그들 만의 깨끗한 에너지 미래를 구축하는 길에서 운전석에 앉도록 합니다."라고 말했습니다."바이든 대통령의 미국 투자 의제는 너무 오랫동안 소외되어 왔던 지역사회를 위해 환경 정의를 전달하기 위한 정부의 노력을 가속화했습니다"라고 Brenda Mallory 백악관 환경질위원회 위원장은 말하면서, "대통령의 Justice40 Initiative(저스티스40 이니셔티브) 일환으로, 이러한 보조금은 오염을 줄이고, 기후 변화의 영향에 대한 회복력을 높이며, 이러한 프로젝트를 완수할 수 있는 지역사회 역량을 구축함으로써 빈곤한 지역사회가 직면한 환경 및 기후 정의 문제에 대처하는 데 도움이 될 것입니다."하고 말했습니다.인플레이션 감축 법안은 EPA에 빈곤한 지역사회를 돕고 기술적 문제를 제공하기 위한 보조금을 수여하도록 30억 달러를 제공합니다. EPA는 이러한 보조금을 이용해서, 이 임무를 수행하고 있습니다.또한 지역사회 변화 보조금은 Justice40 Initiative(저스티스40 이니셔티브)를 통해 미국 전역에서 형평성과 정의를 증진시키겠다는 바이든 대통령의 공약을 이행하여 특정 연방 투자의 전체 혜택의 40%를 투자 부족으로 소외되고 오염으로 과도한 부담을 지고 있는 불우한 지역사회에 돌아갈 수 있도록 합니다.이 초기 선정군의 보조금 예는 다음과 같습니다.미시간, 미네소타, 위스콘신의 35개 부족에 주택 내후화 및 에너지 효율 업그레이드를 설치하여 가족을 위한 실내 공기질을 개선하고 임명된 부족 에너지 챔피언에게 리더십 개발 교육을 제공하기 위해 중서부지역 부족 에너지 자원 협회(MTERA)와 그리드 얼터너티브(Grid Alternatives)에 거의 2천만 달러 지원. MTERA는 지난 5월 EPA Solar for All 프로그램에서 6천 2백만 달러의 상금도 받았습니다.납 제거, 용접, 하이브리드 및 전기 자동차 유지보수, 주택 내후화 및 주택 에너지 감사를 위한 환경 정의 인력 개발 교육을 구축하기 위해 책임 있는 지역사회 개발을 위한 연합 및 로스앤젤레스 무역 기술 대학교에 2천만 달러 지원. 이 보조금을 통해 선정된 신청자들은 남부 로스앤젤레스 전역의 600가구 이상에 대한 납 제거 작업을 완료할 수 있을 것으로 예상됩니다. 앨라배마주 17개 블랙벨트 카운티 전역에 현장 폐수 처리 시스템을 설치하기 위해 텍사스 A&M 대학과 블랙벨트 비법인 폐수 프로그램에 1,400만 달러 이상 지원. Regan 행정관은 이전에 오물정화조가 작동하지 않아 가정에서 마당으로 직관을 통해 하수가 흘러나와 지역 공중보건 위기가 발생했던 앨라배마주 론데스 카운티를 방문했습니다. 또한 이 지역사회는 가족에 영향을 미치는 심각한 폐수 문제를 해결하기 위해 양당기반시설법에 따라 100% 취소 가능한 차관 형태의 870만 달러도 받았습니다. 도시 숲 가꾸기와 목재 폐기물 감소를 중심으로 인력 프로그램을 확대하고, 필라델피아와 피츠버그의 숲 지붕층을 확대하며 목재 폐기물이 매립되지 않도록 방지하는 사업을 추진하기 위해 피츠버그 자연보호단과 PowerCorpsPHL에 약 1,400만 달러 지원. 이 보조금에는 피츠버그 토양의 납 오염을 줄이는데 바이오차(biochar)를 활용하기 위한 자금도 포함되어 있습니다. 변화에 대한 지역사회 주도 투자인 프로그램의 트랙 1은 프로젝트 150개 각각에 1~2천만 달러, 대략 총 19억 6천만 달러가 수여됩니다. 환경 및 기후 정의 문제를 해결하기 위해 지역사회 규모의 프로젝트를 시행하고 있는 17개 트랙 I 신청자는 다음과 같습니다.텍사스 A&M 대학과 블랙벨트 비법인 폐수 프로그램(윌콕스/헤일/론디스 카운티, AL)베이커즈필드시와 건강한 지역사회 만들기 케른(베이커스필드, CA)La Familia Counseling Center, Inc.와 지역사회 자원 프로젝트(새크라멘토, CA)책임있는 지역사회 개발을 위한 연합과 로스앤젤레스 무역 기술 대학교(로스앤젤레스, CA)샌디에이고 재단과 환경보건 연합(샌디에이고, CA)데이원과 액티브SGV(산 가브리엘 밸리, CA)포커텔로시와 포르뇌프 그린웨이 재단(포커텔로, ID)딜라드 대학교와 루이지애나주 남동부의 유나이티드웨이(남동부 LA)스프링필드시와 서부 매사추세츠주 공중보건원(스프링필드, MA)중서부지역 부족 에너지 자원 협회와 그리드 얼터너티브(Grid Alternatives)(MI, MN, WI)메트로헬스 시스템(MetroHealth System)과 지역사회 주택 솔루션(클리블랜드, OH)레인 카운티 오리건과 레인 카운티의 유나이티드웨이(레인 카운티, OR)피츠버그 자연보호단과 PowerCorpsPHL(피츠버그/필라델피아, PA)공공토지신탁과 채터누가시(채터누가, TN)휴스턴시와 텍사스 블랙유나이티드펀드(휴스턴, TX)곤자가 대학교와 스포캔 네이버후드액션파트너(SNAP)(스포캔, WA)국가주택신탁과 D.C. 아동법률센터(워싱턴, D.C.)공정 관리에 대한 유의미한 참여인 트랙 2는 프로젝트 20개 각각에 1~3백만 달러, 대략 총 4천만 달러가 수여됩니다. 정부의 의사결정 과정에서 개인과 지역사회의 참여를 촉진할 트랙 II 신청자는 다음과 같습니다.인사이트 가든 프로그램과 엘라 베이커 인권 센터(C.A.에 있는 여러 곳)공공토지신탁과 씨유앳더탑(See You At The Top)(클레블렌드, OH)SSG(Special Service for Groups, Inc.)와 CAUSE(Center for Asian Americans United for Self Empowerment: 아시아계 미국인 연합 스스로 강해지기 센터)(로스앤젤레스, CA)브롱스리버얼라이언스(Bronx River Alliance, Inc.)와 평화와 정의를 위한 청소년 선교회(브롱스 카운티, NY)선정된 21개 중 3개는 NOFO에서 확인된 목표 투자 지역을 위한 것입니다. 목표 투자 지역 자금은 지역사회 변화 보조금 프로그램 자금이 특이한 상황, 지리 및 요구를 가진 불우한 지역사회를 향하도록 보장하기 위한 것입니다.CCGP 보조금을 받는 초기 21개 조직의 전체 목록을 보고 CCGP에 대해 자세히 알아보십시오.지역사회 변화 보조금 프로그램은 2024년 11월 21일까지 계속 신청을 받기 때문에 EPA는 신청자가 NOFO 요건을 완전히 충족하는 즉시 신청서를 제출할 것을 독려합니다. EPA는 2024년 남은 기간 동안 선착순으로 추가 선정을 할 예정입니다. 또한 EPA는 새로운 기술 지원을 요청하는 마지막 날이 2024년 8월 16일이므로 관심 있는 신청자가 가능한 빨리 기술 지원을 신청할 것을 권장합니다.EPA의 인플레이션 감축 법안 지역사회 변화 보조금 프로그램 웹페이지에서 지역사회 변화 보조금 NOFO를 읽으십시오.지역사회 변화 보조금 및 기술 지원에 대해 자세히 알아보려면 EPA의 인플레이션 감축 법안 지역사회 변화 보조금 프로그램 웹페이지를 방문하십시오.EPA의 환경 정의에 대해 자세히 알아보려면 EPA의 환경 정의 웹페이지를 방문하십시오.웨비나 정보 등 NOFO에 대한 최신 정보는 빈 이메일을 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 주소로 전송해 환경 정의 및 외부 시민권 부서의 리스트서브를 구독해 알아보십시오. X(구 Twitter)에서 EPA 환경 정의 계정 (@EPAEnvJustice)을 팔로우하세요.

EPA Begins Oversight of Cleanup at Amphenol/Franklin Power Products Site in Franklin, Indiana

Fairfield, N.J. (July 26, 2024) - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that it is delivering on its promise to Invest in America and clean up Superfund sites that have been waiting for funding. Using a total of about $30 million in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA has demolished the heavily contaminated building at the Unimatic Manufacturing Corp. Superfund site in Fairfield, N.J. and has finished removing contaminated soil from the site. In September, U.S. Army Corps contractors will dig up and remove sediment in wetlands and streams downstream from this site and will also monitor groundwater. EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia and U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill joined state and local partners at the site today to celebrate the milestone and mark the beginning of the next phase of cleanup also funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “Three years ago, I stood at this very site and made a promise that the EPA would use funding from the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to clean up legacy pollution at our country’s most toxic sites,” said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “Today we have delivered on that promise here in Fairfield, with a cleaned-up property and the opportunity to redevelop it and make it into something better for the community.”“This investment of $30 million in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is a monumental step forward for Fairfield and for communities across New Jersey affected by toxic pollution,” said Senator Cory Booker. “New Jersey is home to the most Superfund sites in the nation, and I’m proud to see federal, state, and local partners come together to secure urgently needed funding for the cleanup of this heavily contaminated site. Addressing industrial pollution and transforming this site into a safer place for the community will pave the way for a healthier, more sustainable future for New Jersey residents.”“I was proud to fight hard to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which is not only funding construction of the Gateway Tunnel, but is helping us clean up toxic chemicals from former manufacturing plants across the Garden State – including the Unimatic Superfund Site. I first visited this site back in 2019, and it is so exciting to be back to see how our federal tax dollars continue to be used to clean up Unimatic and improve the quality of life for New Jerseyans. Thank you to the EPA and all who are working to remediate the Unimatic Superfund Site,” said Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11).“I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration, our Congressional delegation, the EPA, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for their commitment to making New Jersey safer as they continue work to clean up the former Unimatic Manufacturing Corp. site,” said Governor Phil Murphy. "I am pleased by the ongoing progress of this project and to see this work enter the next phase of sediment and groundwater cleanup. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are continuing to make strides toward our goal of building a cleaner, greener future for New Jersey.”“The DEP thanks the Biden-Harris Administration, the EPA and Representative Mikie Sherrill for securing Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds to accelerate cleanup efforts that will ultimately allow the community to repurpose this former industrial site to better serve their needs,” said New Jersey Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette. “New Jersey has a long history of industrial pollution, and BIL funds have made it possible for communities across the state to start fresh and make transformational investments that enhance residents’ quality of life and the environment we share.” “The cleanup of this Superfund site is a great example of how the community and the EPA work together to alleviate the concerns of our residents by eliminating dangerous chemicals from our Township. There have been approximately 50 thousand tons of hazardous material removed from Fairfield. This has been accomplished through the oversight of the EPA without increasing the local tax one penny,” said Mayor of Fairfield Township William Galese. “On behalf of the grateful residents of Fairfield, I would like to thank the EPA for eliminating this threat from our town.”The Unimatic Manufacturing Corporation site is one of 115 Superfund sites in New Jersey. The metals molding facility operated machines using lubricating oil that contained polychlorinated biphenyls, also referred to as PCBs. Wastewater from the facility contaminated the on-site building, soil and groundwater, including the soil on three nearby properties. As a result, EPA placed the Unimatic Manufacturing Corporation site on the Superfund Program’s National Priorities List in May 2014.Prior to EPA’s involvement, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection oversaw the removal of approximately 5,000 tons of PCB-contaminated soil from the Unimatic property, which reduced some risk associated with the site. However, widespread PCB- and pesticide-contaminated soil remained in the subsurface, both underneath and outside the building footprint.In 2021, EPA announced the cleanup at the site would advance as part of the first wave of sites to benefit from the $3.5 billion in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help clean up polluted Superfund sites in communities.EPA initiated the cleanup in 2023, demolishing the former Unimatic building in May and beginning to dig up and remove contaminated soil in October of that year. To date, EPA has removed over 50,000 tons of PCB and pesticide contaminated soil and replaced it with clean soil. In September, this first phase of the cleanup will come to an end and EPA will begin the second phase of cleanup work downstream of the site. EPA will dig up and remove PCB-contaminated sediment in wetlands and streams downstream from the site and monitor groundwater. In 1980, Congress passed the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, known as Superfund. The law gave EPA the authority and funds to hold polluters accountable for cleaning up the most contaminated sites across the country. When no viable responsible party is found or cannot afford the cleanup, EPA steps in to address risks to human health and the environment using funds appropriated by Congress, like the funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.Visit the Unimatic Manufacturing Corporation Superfund Site profile page for additional background and site documents.Follow EPA Region 2 on X and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.24-060

Biden-Harris Administration Announces Over $100 Million in Seven California Environmental Justice Community Change Grants

On July 15, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency began oversight of barrier installation to reduce contamination concentrations in groundwater at the Franklin Power Products/Amphenol site in Franklin, Indiana. EPA will hold an open house on Wednesday, August 7, to answer residents’ questions about the cleanup and construction work at the site, anticipated to take 1-2 months.To break down the remaining contamination at the site, crews are installing “permeable reactive barriers” along Forsythe Street and Hamilton Avenue. These barriers will treat affected soil and groundwater. Long-term monitoring of groundwater will continue after construction is completed to track the performance of the barriers. Residents may see increased truck traffic and heavy equipment around the site during this time. The open house will be an opportunity for residents with questions to meet Agency staff and learn about site work. Please note this event does not have a virtual component.When: Wednesday, August 7, 5:30 to 7 p.m.Where: Johnson County Public Library, Franklin Branch Historical Room401 State St.Franklin, IndianaFor information and updates, please visit the EPA’s Amphenol website.

La Administración Biden-Harris anuncia más de $325 millones en subvenciones para el Cambio Comunitario sobre Justicia Ambiental y Climática

SAN FRANCISCO — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $100,541,769 in funding for seven selected applications to help disadvantaged California communities tackle environmental and climate justice challenges. The investment will fund projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity. Made possible by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, the Community Change Grants Program is the single largest investment in environmental and climate justice in history. “For too long, communities with environmental justice challenges have been overburdened with pollution and have been disinvested in. And that’s why the Biden-Harris Administration is committing to robust enforcement and, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, historical investments in these communities,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “We are so proud today to be selecting these seven exemplary California community partnerships and investing in a historic way in solving environmental and climate justice challenges.”The five California Community-Driven Investments for Change (Track I) applicants expected to each receive $10-$20 million in grants for community-scale projects are:City of Bakersfield and Building Healthy Communities Kern (Bakersfield, CA)La Familia Counseling Center, Inc. and Community Resource Project (Sacramento, CA)Coalition for Responsible Community Development and Los Angeles Trade -Technical College (Los Angeles, CA)The San Diego Foundation and The Environmental Health Coalition (San Diego, CA)Day One and Active SGV (San Gabriel Valley, CA)California Meaningful Engagement for Equitable Governance (Track II) applicants expected to receive grants of $1-3 million each for facilitating individual and community participation in governmental decision-making processes are:Insight Garden Program and Ella Baker Center for Human Rights (multiple CA locations)Special Service for Groups, Inc., and Center for Asian Americans United for Self Empowerment (Los Angeles, CA)Elected Leaders Applaud Today’s Announcement:“Today’s historic announcement from the Biden-Harris Administration makes it clear that local communities are best equipped to develop solutions that address decades-long environmental and climate-related injustices,” said U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (CA). “That’s why, as we crafted the Inflation Reduction Act, I fought so hard to ensure that disadvantaged communities are directly eligible for this type of assistance. As we work to tackle the climate crisis, we must continue prioritizing resources for innovative, locally driven solutions to support historically disadvantaged communities.” “Efforts to address climate change need to include all communities, especially neighborhoods that have historically been underfunded. The nearly $20 million in Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change grant money coming to San Diego will fund much-needed improvements to air quality, expand access to clean public transportation, and provide green space that will mitigate extreme heat and beautify neighborhoods. This is another great example of how the Biden-Harris administration’s Inflation Reduction Act is truly helping all Americans,” said Representative Scott Peters (CA-50). “Our youth have the most at stake when it comes to the climate crisis—but they also have the most agency to combat it. I was proud to help secure $21.2 million in EPA Community Change Grants for two projects in South LA that will equip young Angelenos with the tools to fight the climate crisis through workforce development, leadership training, and community engagement initiatives,” said Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37). “The futures of our planet and young people are intertwined, and these programs will play a vital role in empowering our youth to create a clean, sustainable future.” “Today’s announcement is welcome news for families in San Diego and across the region. This funding demonstrates our continued commitment to addressing long-standing environmental and climate justice challenges and investing in the health and wellbeing of our communities,” said Representative Juan Vargas (CA-52). “I’m proud to have voted for the Inflation Reduction Act to support projects just like this one and look forward to seeing the positive impacts to come.”“Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act continues to deliver key climate investments for communities nationwide, and I’m thrilled that today’s announcement includes $20,000,000 to reduce pollution, increase water sustainability, and promote active transportation right here in the San Gabriel Valley,” said Representative Judy Chu (CA-28). “Thanks to years of leadership and collaboration amongst everyone at Active SGV, Day One, and their partners, this funding will be used to implement seven local, innovative projects that meet our communities’ most pressing transportation and sustainability challenges.”“I am so pleased that California is receiving over $100 million for efforts that will reduce pollution, support climate resiliency, and address environmental justice challenges,” said Representative Pete Aguilar (CA-33). “These investments will help us tackle climate change while creating green jobs and lowering the cost of living. I’m proud to have pushed for the Inflation Reduction Act, which has already supported so many projects across our state, and I will continue to push for comprehensive solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change as we forge a healthier, more sustainable future.”“President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, which I was honored to support in Congress, provides the largest single investment in environmental justice in history,” said Representative Ted Lieu (CA-36). “A key part of tackling the climate crisis is empowering and equipping disadvantaged communities with the tools they need to address longstanding environmental challenges. Through the Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grant program, many communities across California and the country will breathe cleaner air, drink cleaner water, and become more resilient to climate disasters.”Representative Barbara Lee (CA-12) shared, "This investment for community-based environmental and climate Justice efforts in the East Bay is monumental and will go a long way toward not only combatting the climate crisis but achieving our environmental justice goals for marginalized communities. I applaud the Biden-Harris administration, Administrator Regan, and the EPA for their leadership in piloting the largest environmental justice investment in history. "“La Familia is a community pillar – providing comprehensive services from mental health resources to job training and youth programs for over 40 years. Our Sacramento community relies on La Familia’s transformative work,” said Representative Doris Matsui (CA-7). “Climate change continues to be the defining fight of our lives, but air pollution and extreme heat are not experienced in the same way across Sacramento’s communities. This infusion of federal dollars will allow La Familia to once again use its innovative ideas and knowledge of the community to develop a community resilience hub, assist its neighbors with energy-efficient upgrades, and create new, much-needed green space. I’m proud to be a strong advocate for La Familia and their forward-thinking approach to bring resources, training, and sustainable programming where it is needed most.”Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44) declared she is “Thrilled for California to receive over $100 million from the Biden-Harris Administration in the first round of EPA Community Change grants, based on funding I worked to secure in the Inflation Reduction Act. Under-resourced communities of South Los Angeles and surrounding areas will benefit directly as the Coalition for Responsible Community Development and Los Angeles Trade Tech College receive funding to develop workforce training programs to reduce indoor air pollution, expand clean energy and transportation infrastructure, and create good-paying jobs for residents.”Hear from the Selectees:"Thanks to our coalition of partners and our community-driven approach, San Diego is positioned to receive this transformational support from the Environmental Protection Agency to fund much-needed projects that will improve the health and lives of residents in our central historic barrios and build a healthier, more vibrant and resilient community," said Mark Stuart, President & CEO of the San Diego Foundation.Day One’s Executive Director Christy Zamani shared, “The Green SGV Collaborative is thrilled to receive federal support to realize healthier, more sustainable communities in the San Gabriel Valley. Our project is designed to help some of the most pollution-burdened communities in the United States, whose residents deserve a healthier environment.”“La Familia is extremely honored to have the opportunity to impact Sacramento’s North Franklin neighborhood sustainably,” shared Executive Director Rachel Rios. “Our “Greening North Franklin” project brings together multiple partners to provide this community with the environmental investments to improve health outcomes for many children, families, and businesses, such as through a new Resilience Hub Opportunity Center, planting new green spaces, and creating a green jobs workforce, to name a few. We are grateful to the EPA for its inclusiveness in partnering with non-profits to do this vital work to transform disadvantaged communities. City of Bakersfield City Manager Christian Clegg shared, "We are excited and grateful that the EPA has selected Bakersfield's Southeast Strong project for a Community Change Grant. This grant underscores our city's dedication to fostering inclusive growth and creating a healthier, more sustainable future for our vibrant community." “Special Service for Groups, Inc. and Asian Pacific Islander Forward Movement is thrilled to bring this historic investment from the US EPA’s Community Change Grant program to mobilize the next generation of environmental justice youth leaders in the West San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles County and to partner with the Center for Asian Americans United for Self-Empowerment to elevate youth voices and increase opportunities for equitable governance to improve the region’s climate resilience and build toward President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative,” said Co-Directors Kyle Tsukahira and Heng Lam Foong in a joint statement. "As a community-based, coalition-driven organization, CRCD [Coalition for Responsible Community Development] is committed to being a catalyst for positive change in South Los Angeles. This substantial federal funding from the EPA allows us and our partners to implement impactful initiatives to address environmental justice and economic empowerment,” said Mark Wilson, President and CEO of CRCD. “Together, we are ensuring South LA not only benefits from these resources but also thrives through sustainable and inclusive development. Being awarded this EPA grant is a testament to the power of collaboration and the unwavering dedication to uplift our community.”Community Change Grants BackgroundThe Inflation Reduction Act provides $3 billion to EPA to award grants that help disadvantaged communities and offer technical assistance. With the 21 grants nationwide being announced today, the EPA is delivering on this mission. The Community Change Grants also deliver on President Biden’s commitment to advancing equity and justice throughout the United States through his Justice40 Initiative. This initiative aims to ensure that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments go to disadvantaged communities marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. Today's funding announcement is the first tranche of nearly $2 billion, which, based on community input, will be delivered via grants awarded on a rolling basis.Informed by robust stakeholder engagement and community feedback, the innovative rolling application process will ensure that applicants have ample time to prepare and take advantage of this historic resource. The Community Change Grants Program (CCGP) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), administered through EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights, accepts applications through November 21, 2024. EPA will continue to review applications and announce selections on a rolling basis. See the complete national list of the initial 21 organizations receiving a CCGP grant and learn more about CCGP.Click here to learn more about the Community Change Grants and Technical Assistance. To learn more about environmental justice at EPA, visit the Environmental Justice webpage. For up-to-date information about the NOFO, including details on the webinars, subscribe to the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights’ listserv by sending a blank email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): @EPAEnvJustice.Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region on our Instagram, Facebook, X, and website.

City of Springfield, Mass., selected to receive a nearly $20 million Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grant

WASHINGTON – Hoy, 25 de julio de 2024, la Agencia de Protección Ambiental de EE. UU. (EPA, por sus siglas en inglés) anunció más de $325 millones en fondos para 21 solicitudes seleccionadas para ayudar a las comunidades desventajadas a enfrentar los retos ambientales y de justicia climática a través de proyectos que reducen la contaminación, aumentan la resiliencia climática de la comunidad y desarrollan la capacidad de la comunidad. Gracias a la Ley de Reducción de la Inflación del Presidente Biden, el Programa de Subvenciones para el Cambio Comunitario es la mayor inversión en justicia ambiental y climática de la historia. El anuncio de financiamiento de hoy es la primera etapa de casi $2 mil millones del programa que fue diseñado en base a los aportes de la comunidad para otorgar subvenciones de manera continua.Estas solicitudes seleccionadas son las primeras que se incluyen en el proceso de solicitud continua del Programa de Subvenciones para el Cambio Comunitario. El innovador proceso de solicitud continua, basado en la sólida participación de las partes interesadas y los comentarios de la comunidad, garantizará que los solicitantes tengan tiempo suficiente para prepararse y aprovechar este recurso histórico. El Aviso de Oportunidad de Financiamiento (NOFO) del Programa de Subvenciones para el Cambio Comunitario, administrado a través de la Oficina de Justicia Ambiental y Derechos Civiles Externos, todavía está aceptando solicitudes hasta el 21 de noviembre de 2024. La EPA continuará revisando las solicitudes y anunciando las selecciones de manera continua. “Nuestra capacidad de ofrecer resultados tangibles para las comunidades depende de escucharlas y desarrollar soluciones innovadoras a través de la participación inclusiva de las partes interesadas,” señalo el administrador de la EPA, Michael S. Regan. “Hoy, gracias a la Ley de Reducción de la Inflación del Presidente Biden, la EPA ha seleccionado el primer conjunto de socios comunitarias para resolver los desafíos ambientales y de justicia climática emergentes.” “Las subvenciones de hoy ponen en control a las comunidades para corregir los errores ambientales del pasado y construir su propio futuro de energía limpia”, comentó John Podesta, Asesor Principal del Presidente para Política Climática Internacional. “La agenda de Inversión en Estados Unidos del Presidente Biden ha acelerado nuestros esfuerzos para brindar justicia ambiental a las comunidades que han quedado atrás durante demasiado tiempo,” indicó Brenda Mallory, presidenta del Consejo de Calidad Ambiental de la Casa Blanca. “Como parte de la Iniciativa Justice40 del Presidente, estas subvenciones ayudarán a las comunidades desventajadas a enfrentar los desafíos de justicia ambiental y climática al reducir la contaminación, aumentar la resiliencia a los impactos del cambio climático y desarrollar la capacidad de la comunidad para llevar a cabo estos proyectos”. La Ley de Reducción de la Inflación proporciona $3 mil millones a la EPA para otorgar subvenciones que ayuden a las comunidades desventajadas y brinden asistencia técnica. Con estas subvenciones, la EPA está cumpliendo con esta misión. Las Subvenciones para el Cambio Comunitario también cumplen con el compromiso del Presidente Biden de promover la equidad y la justicia en todo Estados Unidos a través de su Iniciativa Justice40 para asegurar que el 40 por ciento de los beneficios generales de ciertas inversiones federales sean destinadas a las comunidades desventajadas que se ven marginadas por la falta de inversión y sobrecargadas por la contaminación. Ejemplos de subvenciones de este conjunto inicial seleccionado incluyen:Casi $20 millones a la Asociación de Midwest Tribal Energy Resources Association (MTERA) y Grid Alternatives para instalar mejoras de climatización y eficiencia energética en el hogar en 35 tribus en Michigan, Minnesota y Wisconsin, mejorando la calidad del aire interior para las familias y brindando capacitación en desarrollo de liderazgo para los Campeones Tribales de Energía designados. La MTERA también recibió una adjudicación de $62 millones del programa Solar para Todos de la EPA en mayo.$20 millones a la Coalition for Responsible Community Development y el Los Angeles Trade-Technical College para crear capacitaciones de desarrollo de la fuerza laboral de justicia ambiental destinadas a la reducción de plomo, soldadura, mantenimiento de vehículos híbridos y eléctricos, climatización del hogar y auditorías de energía residencial. A través de esta subvención, se prevé que los solicitantes seleccionados completen la reducción de plomo para más de 600 hogares en todo el sur de Los Ángeles. Más de $14 millones para la Texas A&M University y el Black Belt Unincorporated Wastewater Program a fin de instalar sistemas de tratamiento en sitio de aguas residuales en 17 condados de la zona Black Belt en Alabama. El administrador Regan visitó previamente el condado de Lowndes, Alabama, cuyas fosas sépticas defectuosas y las tuberías rectas de aguas residuales de las casas a los patios crearon una crisis de salud pública en la región. Esta comunidad también recibió un préstamo 100% condonable de $8.7 millones de la Ley Bipartidista de Infraestructura para abordar los desafíos críticos de aguas residuales que afectan a las familias. Aproximadamente $14 millones para el Pittsburgh Conservation Corps y PowerCorpsPHL destinados a expandir los programas de fuerza laboral en torno a la silvicultura urbana y la reducción de desechos de madera, expandir el dosel de los árboles en Filadelfia y Pittsburgh y mantener los desechos de madera fuera de los vertederos. Esta subvención también incluye fondos para aprovechar el biocarbón a fin de reducir la contaminación por plomo en los suelos de Pittsburgh. Se espera que la Vía I del programa, Inversiones Impulsadas por la Comunidad para el Cambio, otorgue aproximadamente $1.96 mil millones para 150 proyectos por $10-20 millones cada uno. Los 17 solicitantes de la Vía I que están implementando proyectos a escala comunitaria para abordar los desafíos ambientales y de justicia climática son:Texas A&M University y Black Belt Unincorporated Wastewater Program (Wilcox/Hale/Lowndes Counties, AL)City of Bakersfield y Building Healthy Communities Kern (Bakersfield, CA)La Familia Counseling Center, Inc. y Community Resource Project (Sacramento, CA)Coalition for Responsible Community Development y Los Angeles Trade -Technical College (Los Angeles, CA)The San Diego Foundation y The Environmental Health Coalition (San Diego, CA)Day One y Active SGV (San Gabriel Valley, CA)City of Pocatello y Portneuf Greenway Foundation (Pocatello, ID)Dillard University y United Way of Southeast Louisiana (Southeast LA)City of Springfield y Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts (Springfield, MA)Midwest Tribal Energy Resources Association y Grid Alternatives (MI, MN, WI)The MetroHealth System y Community Housing Solutions (Cleveland, OH)Lane County Oregon y United Way of Lane County (Lane County, OR)Pittsburgh Conservation Corps y PowerCorpsPHL (Pittsburgh/Philadelphia, PA)The Trust for Public Land y City of Chattanooga (Chattanooga, TN)City of Houston y Black United Fund of Texas (Houston, TX)Corporation of Gonzaga University y Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners (Spokane, WA)National Housing Trust y D.C. Children’s Law Center (Washington, D.C.)Se espera que la Vía II, Participación Significativa para la Gobernanza Equitativa otorgue aproximadamente $40 millones para 20 proyectos de $1 a $3 millones cada uno. Los solicitantes de la Vía II que facilitarán la participación individual y comunitaria en los procesos de toma de decisiones gubernamentales son:Insight Garden Program y Ella Baker Center for Human Rights (multiple locations in CA)The Trust for Public Land y See You At The Top (Cleveland, OH)Special Service for Groups, Inc. y Center for Asian Americans United for Self Empowerment (Los Angeles, CA)Bronx River Alliance, Inc. y Youth Ministries for Peace and Justice (Bronx County, NY)De las 21 selecciones, tres son para Áreas de Inversión Objetivo identificadas en el NOFO. El financiamiento del Área de Inversión Objetivo está destinado a garantizar que los fondos del Programa de Subvenciones para el Cambio Comunitario se dirijan a comunidades desventajadas con circunstancias, geografía y necesidades únicas.Vea el listado completo de las 21 organizaciones iniciales que reciben una subvención de CCGP y obtenga más información sobre CCGP.Dado que el Programa de Subvenciones para el Cambio Comunitario sigue aceptando solicitudes hasta el 21 de noviembre de 2024, la EPA anima a los solicitantes a presentar solicitudes tan pronto como cumplan plenamente con los requisitos del NOFO. La EPA hará selecciones adicionales de forma continua durante el resto de 2024. La EPA también anima a los solicitantes interesados a solicitar asistencia técnica lo antes posible, ya que el último día para solicitar nueva asistencia técnica es el 16 de agosto de 2024.Lea el NOFO de Subvenciones para el Cambio Comunitario en la página web Programa de Subvenciones para el Cambio Comunitario según la Ley de Reducción de la Inflación de la EPA. Para obtener más información sobre las Subvenciones para el Cambio Comunitario y la Asistencia Técnica, visite: la página web Inflation Reduction Act Community Change Grants Programa de Subvenciones para el Cambio Comunitario según la Ley de Reducción de la Inflación de la EPA.Para obtener más información sobre la justicia ambiental en la EPA, visite la página web de Justicia Ambiental de la EPA. Para obtener información actualizada sobre el NOFO, incluida la información sobre los seminarios web, suscríbase a la lista de correo electrónico de la Oficina de Justicia Ambiental y Derechos Civiles Externos enviando un correo electrónico en blanco a: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Síganos en X (antes Twitter): @EPAEnvJustice.

EPA Announces More Than $20 Million in Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grants in Ohio

BOSTON (JULY 25, 2024)— Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that the City of Springfield, and its partner Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts, were selected to receive nearly $20 million in funding to help disadvantaged communities tackle environmental and climate justice challenges through projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity. Made possible by President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, the Community Change Grants Program is the single largest investment in environmental and climate justice in history. The funding announcement today is the first tranche of nearly $2 billion from the program that was designed based on community input to award grants on a rolling basis.These selected applications are the first to come under the Community Change Grants Program's rolling application process. Informed by robust stakeholder engagement and community feedback, the innovative rolling application process will ensure that applicants have ample time to prepare and take advantage of this historic resource. The Community Change Grants Program Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), administered through EPA's Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights, is still accepting applications through November 21, 2024. EPA will continue to review applications and announce selections on a rolling basis. "Our ability to deliver tangible results for communities depends on listening to them and developing innovative solutions through inclusive stakeholder engagement," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "Today, thanks to President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, EPA has selected the first cohort of community partnerships to solve emerging and longstanding environmental and climate justice challenges.""The City of Springfield and its residents have shared their vision for change—retrofitting homes and removing lead hazards, converting city buildings to clean energy and expanding the tree canopy, and investing in community solar and workforce training programs. Today we are helping to turn that vision into a reality by providing the community with the necessary resources to make that happen," said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "This funding from the Inflation Reduction Act is a pivotal step in meeting our commitment to environmental and climate justice across New England. By listening to and collaborating with communities, we are ensuring that the benefits of this historic investment reach those who need it most.""With this nearly $20 million grant, Springfield will be able invest in safer and more resilient homes, restart its electric bikeshare program, plant hundreds of new trees, and so much more. All thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration's Inflation Reduction Act and my 15% minimum tax on big corporations," said U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren."Residents and advocates in Springfield are taking action to undo generations of pollution, and bringing to life a vision for the future that includes clean air to breathe, safe housing to live in, and green, renewable energy to power it all," said U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey. "Their coalition of community organizations, local government agencies, and those most affected by environmental injustice embodies the mission of the Community Change Grant Program, coming together to get the job done. I thank the EPA for awarding nearly $20 million from the Inflation Reduction Act, which I fought hard for in Congress, to directly enable community-led action in Western Massachusetts.""My administration is proud of our collaborative efforts, led by our Development Services Division, along with other city departments and dedicated partner agencies, to receive this significant grant award. On behalf of our Springfield, thank you to the EPA for selecting us for this nearly $20 million grant. This funding, which was made possible thanks to President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, the largest climate investment in our nation's history, will provide tangible benefits to our community including improved indoor and outdoor air quality and reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions," said City of Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno. "I am also grateful to Congressman Neal for his continued leadership and advocacy on behalf of our Springfield and his support of our application for an EPA Community Change Grant. This is a critical time for cities like our Springfield to continue our efforts to reduce pollution and enhance our climate resilience, and also address environmental and climate justice challenges. Springfield has a long history of being a regional leader in successful and effective climate action and we are looking forward to continuing to build upon our resilience.""We are building on our decades of collaboration with the City of Springfield on various community health issues and at this pivotal point addressing climate change. Together we will deepen strategies that are already in place and determined critical by community members as well as innovate new opportunities that will advance Springfield's commitment to climate justice," said Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts Executive Director Jessica Collins. "We are excited and honored to be funded to partner with the Live Well Springfield coalition members, the City of Springfield and so many Springfield organizations in this project. We feel sure that our collaborative efforts will inform national action."Track I of the program, Community-Driven Investments for Change, is expected to award approximately $1.96 billion for 150 projects of $10-20 million each. Track I applicants will implement community-scale projects to address environmental and climate justice challenges. The City of Springfield's application has been selected under Track I, and is the only selectee from New England in this initial selection cohort:Nearly $20 million to the City of Springfield and to the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts for "Green and Resilient Springfield." The selectees will support the transformation of a post-industrial city toward resilience with this multi-faceted project. They will invest in a community solar project; retrofit 30 one- to four-unit homes to reduce energy use and improve indoor air quality; and complete home rehabilitation projects to remove lead and other pollution hazards. They will convert two city-owned buildings to non-grid clean energy sources and expand their use as community resilience hubs and emergency shelter locations. They also will expand tree canopy by planting 1,500 trees; restart a city e-bikeshare program; support a workforce development program for HVAC-R technicians; and complete other activities.Track II, Meaningful Engagement for Equitable Governance, is expected to award approximately $40 million for 20 projects for $1-3 million each. Track II applicants will facilitate individual and community participation in governmental decision-making processes.See the full listing of the initial 21 organizations receiving a CCGP grant and learn more about CCGP.The Inflation Reduction Act provides $3 billion to EPA to award grants that help disadvantaged communities and offer technical assistance. With these grants, EPA is delivering on this mission.The Community Change Grants also deliver on President Biden's commitment to advance equity and justice throughout the United States through his Justice40 Initiative to ensure that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments go to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.The Community Change Grants Program is still accepting applications through November 21, 2024, so EPA encourages applicants to submit applications as soon as they completely meet the NOFO requirements. EPA will be making additional selections on a rolling basis for the remainder of 2024.EPA also encourages interested applicants to apply for technical assistance as soon as possible, as the last day to request new technical assistance is August 16, 2024.Read the Community Change Grants NOFO here: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/inflation-reduction-act-community-change-grants-program.To learn more about the Community Change Grants and Technical Assistance: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/inflation-reduction-act-community-change-grants-programTo learn more about environmental justice at EPA, visit: https://www.epa.gov/environmentaljusticeFor up-to-date information about the NOFO, including information on the webinars, subscribe to the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights' listserv by sending a blank email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): @EPAEnvJustice.

Chính Quyền Biden-Harris Công Bố Hơn $325 Triệu Đô La Tài Trợ Cho Sự Thay Đổi Cộng Đồng Về Công Lý Môi Trường và Khí Hậu

Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced The MetroHealth System and The Trust for Public Land in Ohio will receive $17,191,775 and $3,000,000 respectively to help disadvantaged communities tackle environmental and climate justice challenges through projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity. Made possible by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, the Community Change Grants Program is the single largest investment in environmental and climate justice in history. The funding announcement today is the first of nearly $2 billion from the program that was designed based on community input to award grants on a rolling basis. These two groups and other selected applications are the first to come under the Community Change Grants Program’s rolling application process. Informed by robust stakeholder engagement and community feedback, the innovative rolling application process will ensure that applicants have ample time to prepare and take advantage of this historic resource. The Community Change Grants Program notice of funding opportunity, administered through EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights, is still accepting applications through November 21. EPA will continue to review applications and announce selections on a rolling basis.  “Our ability to deliver tangible results for communities depends on listening to them and developing innovative solutions through inclusive stakeholder engagement,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Today, thanks to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, EPA has selected the first cohort of community partnerships to solve emerging and longstanding environmental and climate justice challenges.” “Engaging communities on the front lines of climate and environmental issues is a cornerstone of EPA’s commitment to Environmental Justice,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “These communities have been overburdened for too long and that divide is only growing as climate change worsens. These grants are an opportunity to work together and address core environmental issues for our EJ communities.” MetroHealth, along with partner Community Housing Solutions, will identify 1,200 Cleveland-area households with at least one resident with asthma and work with them to reduce indoor air pollution. They will replace gas ranges with electric ranges, upgrade kitchen electrical systems as needed, and improve kitchen ventilation. They also will offer households financial incentives to switch to a cleaner electricity supplier and will install EV chargers upon request. All project activities will include extensive community outreach. Trust for Public Land, along with partner See You at the Top, will work with the city of Cleveland and the Cleveland Parks and Greenspace Coalition to engage residents of eight historically disadvantaged neighborhoods in municipal decision-making and planning processes related to parks and greenspaces. “The Inflation Reduction Act continues to deliver for Northeast Ohio. I’m excited to join the EPA in announcing two federal grant awards to MetroHealth and The Trust for Public Land. These grants will make a tangible difference for local families, helping thousands of residents with asthma upgrade their homes and giving residents a voice in developing greenspace. We all deserve clean air, indoors and outdoors, and these grants help us move toward that goal,” said Rep. Shontel Brown. "Trust for Public Land and Syatt are grateful for the opportunity to create system-wide change in Cleveland via the Cleveland Parks & Greenspace Coalition. This award will center community residents in the development of the new Parks and Recreation Department and implementation of the city-wide parks and greenspace comprehensive plan. The equity-driven, environmental, and climate justice community work in this grant award will encourage two-way communication between the City and residents, becoming a watershed event for a more resilient Cleveland,” said Sean Terry, Ohio State Director at Trust for Public Land. “We are excited to work on this project which has the potential to reduce indoor air pollution, improve asthma control, and improve quality of life,” Dr. Ashwini Sehgal of MetroHealth Systems. “This project will help participants to miss fewer days of work or school, increase their property values, and reduce their energy costs. We are grateful for this opportunity to help our local community in Cleveland, where asthma affects 1 in every 5 people."The Inflation Reduction Act provides $3 billion to EPA to award grants that help disadvantaged communities and offer technical assistance. With these grants, EPA is delivering on this mission. The Community Change Grants also deliver on President Biden’s commitment to advance equity and justice throughout the United States through his Justice40 Initiative to ensure that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments go to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. Track I of the program, Community-Driven Investments for Change, is expected to award approximately $1.96 billion for 150 projects for $10-20 million each. Track II, Meaningful Engagement for Equitable Governance, is expected to award approximately $40 million for 20 projects for $1-3 million each. Track II applicants who will facilitate individual and community participation in governmental decision-making processes are: See the full listing of the initial 21 organizations receiving a CCGP grant and learn more about CCGP. The Community Change Grants Program is still accepting applications through November 21, so EPA encourages applicants to submit applications as soon as they completely meet the requirements. EPA will be making additional selections on a rolling basis for the remainder of 2024. EPA also encourages interested applicants to apply for technical assistance as soon as possible, as the last day to request new technical assistance is August 16, 2024. Read the Community Change Grants notice of funding opportunity here: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/inflation-reduction-act-community-change-grants-program. To learn more about the Community Change Grants and technical assistance: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/inflation-reduction-act-community-change-grants-program To learn more about environmental justice at EPA, visit: https://www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice For up-to-date information, including information on webinars, subscribe to the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights’ listserv by sending a blank email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): @EPAEnvJustice.

EPA and U.S. Army Announce Joint Sampling Project to Identify PFAS Contamination Near Army Installations

WASHINGTON – Hôm nay, ngày 25 Tháng Bảy, 2024, Cơ Quan Bảo Vệ Môi Trường Hoa Kỳ đã công bố tài trợ hơn $325 triệu đô la cho 21 ứng dụng được chọn để giúp các cộng đồng có hoàn cảnh khó khăn giải quyết các thách thức về công lý môi trường và khí hậu thông qua các dự án giảm ô nhiễm, gia tăng khả năng phục hồi của cộng đồng về khí hậu và xây dựng năng lực cộng đồng. Được thực hiện nhờ Đạo Luật Giảm Lạm Phát của Tổng Thống Biden, Chương Trình Tài Trợ Thay Đổi Cộng Đồng là khoản đầu tư duy nhất và lớn nhất vào công lý môi trường và khí hậu trong lịch sử. Thông báo tài trợ hôm nay là đợt tài trợ đầu tiên trị giá gần $2 tỷ đô la từ chương trình được thiết kế dựa trên ý kiến đóng góp của cộng đồng để trao các khoản tài trợ trên cơ sở luân phiên.Những đơn đăng ký được chọn này là những đơn đăng ký đầu tiên nằm trong quy trình đăng ký luân phiên của Chương Trình Tài Trợ Thay Đổi Cộng Đồng. Được thông báo bởi sự tham gia mạnh mẽ của các bên liên quan và phản hồi của cộng đồng, quy trình đăng ký luân phiên đổi mới sẽ đảm bảo rằng người nộp đơn có nhiều thời gian để chuẩn bị và tận dụng nguồn tài nguyên lịch sử này. Thông Báo Về Cơ Hội Tài Trợ Của Chương Trình Tài Trợ Thay Đổi Cộng Đồng (NOFO), được quản lý thông qua Văn Phòng Công Lý Môi Trường và Quyền Dân Sự Bên Ngoài, vẫn đang nhận đơn đăng ký cho đến ngày 21 Tháng Mười Một, 2024. EPA sẽ tiếp tục xem xét các đơn đăng ký và thông báo các lựa chọn trên cơ sở luân phiên.“Khả năng của chúng tôi trong việc mang lại kết quả rõ ràng cho cộng đồng phụ thuộc vào việc lắng nghe họ và phát triển các giải pháp đổi mới thông qua sự tham gia toàn diện của các bên liên quan,” Quản trị viên EPA Michael S. Regan cho biết. “Hôm nay, nhờ Đạo Luật Giảm Lạm Phát Của Tổng Thống Biden, EPA đã chọn nhóm hợp tác cộng đồng đầu tiên để giải quyết những thách thức công lý về môi trường và khí hậu đang nổi lên và lâu dài.”“Các khoản tài trợ ngày nay đặt cộng đồng vào vị trí điều khiển trên con đường khắc phục những sai lầm về môi trường trong quá khứ và xây dựng tương lai năng lượng sạch của riêng họ,” John Podesta nói, Cố Vấn Cấp Cao Của Chủ Tịch về Chính Sách Khí Hậu Quốc Tế cho Biết.“Chương trình nghị sự Đầu tư vào Hoa Kỳ của Tổng Thống Biden đã đẩy nhanh nỗ lực của chúng tôi nhằm mang lại công bằng môi trường cho các cộng đồng đã bị bỏ lại phía sau quá lâu,” Brenda Mallory, Chủ Tịch Hội Đồng Nhà Trắng về Chất Lượng Môi Trường cho Biết. “Là một phần của Sáng Kiến Justice40 của Tổng Thống, các khoản tài trợ này sẽ giúp các cộng đồng có hoàn cảnh khó khăn giải quyết các thách thức về công lý môi trường và khí hậu mà họ gặp phải bằng cách giảm ô nhiễm, gia tăng khả năng phục hồi trước các tác động từ biến đổi khí hậu, và xây dựng năng lực cộng đồng để xem xét các dự án này một cách thông suốt.”Đạo Luật Giảm Lạm Phát cung cấp $3 tỷ đô la cho EPA để trao các khoản tài trợ nhằm giúp đỡ các cộng đồng có hoàn cảnh khó khăn và cung cấp hỗ trợ kỹ thuật. Với những khoản tài trợ này, EPA đang thực hiện sứ mệnh này.Khoản Tài Trợ Thay Đổi Cộng Đồng cũng thực hiện cam kết của Tổng Thống Biden nhằm thúc đẩy công bằng và công lý trên khắp Hoa Kỳ thông qua Sáng Kiến Justice40 để đảm bảo rằng 40 phần trăm lợi ích tổng thể của một số khoản đầu tư liên bang nhất định sẽ đến tay các cộng đồng có hoàn cảnh khó khăn bị thiệt thòi do thiếu đầu tư và phải chịu gánh nặng quá mức do ô nhiễm.Các khoản trợ cấp ví dụ từ nhóm lựa chọn ban đầu này bao gồm:Gần $20 triệu đô la cho Hiệp Hội Tài Nguyên Năng Lượng Bộ Lạc Trung Tây (MTERA) và Giải Pháp Thay Thế Lưới Điện để lắp đặt các nâng cấp về thời tiết tại nhà và hiệu quả sử dụng năng lượng trên 35 Bộ lạc ở Michigan, Minnesota, và Wisconsin, cải thiện chất lượng không khí trong nhà cho các gia đình và cung cấp đào tạo phát triển khả năng lãnh đạo cho Nhà Vô Địch về Năng Lượng Bộ Lạc được chỉ định . MTERA cũng đã nhận được khoản trợ cấp trị giá $62 triệu đô la từ chương trình EPA Solar for All vào Tháng Năm.$20 triệu đô la cho Liên Minh Phát Triển Cộng Đồng có Trách Nhiệm và Trường Cao Đẳng Thương Mại-Kỹ Thuật Los Angeles để xây dựng các chương trình đào tạo phát triển lực lượng lao động công lý môi trường về loại bỏ chì, hàn, bảo dưỡng xe hybrid và xe điện, kiểm tra thời tiết tại nhà, và kiểm toán năng lượng dân cư. Thông qua khoản tài trợ này, những người nộp đơn được chọn dự kiến sẽ hoàn thành việc loại bỏ chì cho hơn 600 ngôi nhà trên khắp miền Nam Los Angeles. Hơn $14 triệu đô la cho Đại Học Texas A&M và Chương Trình Nước Thải Chưa Hợp Nhất Vành Đai Đen để lắp đặt hệ thống xử lý nước thải tại chỗ trên khắp 17 quận Vành Đai Đen ở Alabama. Quản trị viên Regan trước đây đã đến thăm Quận Lowndes, Alabama—nơi mà bể tự hoại và đường ống dẫn nước thải thẳng từ nhà vào sân bị hỏng đã tạo ra một cuộc khủng hoảng sức khỏe cộng đồng trong khu vực. Cộng đồng này cũng đã nhận được khoản vay trị giá $8.7 triệu đô la được hoàn trả 100% từ Luật Cơ Sở Hạ Tầng Lưỡng Đảng để giải quyết những thách thức nghiêm trọng về nước thải ảnh hưởng đến các gia đình. Khoảng $14 triệu đô la cho Quân Đoàn Bảo Tồn Pittsburgh và PowerCorpsPHL để mở rộng các chương trình lực lượng lao động xung quanh việc giảm thiểu chất thải gỗ và lâm nghiệp đô thị, mở rộng tán cây ở Philadelphia và Pittsburgh và loại bỏ chất thải gỗ khỏi các bãi chôn lấp. Khoản tài trợ này cũng bao gồm các quỹ để tận dụng than sinh học trong việc giảm ô nhiễm chì ở đất Pittsburgh. Phần I của chương trình, Đầu tư vì sự thay đổi dựa vào cộng đồng, dự kiến sẽ trao khoảng $1.96 tỷ đô la cho 150 dự án, mỗi dự án trị giá $10-20 triệu đô la. 17 ứng viên Track I đang thực hiện các dự án quy mô cộng đồng nhằm giải quyết các thách thức về công lý môi trường và khí hậu là:Đại Học Texas A&M và Chương Trình Nước Thải Chưa Hợp Nhất Của Vành Đai Đen (Các Hạt Wilcox/Hale/Lowndes, AL)Thành Phố Bakersfield và Xây Dựng Cộng Đồng Lành Mạnh Kern (Bakersfield, CA)Trung Tâm Tư Vấn La Familia, Inc. và Dự Án Nguồn Lực Cộng Đồng (Sacramento, CA)Liên Minh Phát Triển Cộng Đồng có Trách Nhiệm và Trường Cao Đẳng Kỹ Thuật - Thương Mại Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA)Quỹ San Diego và Liên Minh Y Tế Môi Trường (San Diego, CA)Ngày Đầu Tiên và SGV Tích Cực (Thung Lũng San Gabriel, CA)Quỹ Thành Phố Pocatello và Portneuf Greenway (Pocatello, ID)Đại Học Dillard và United Way of Southeast Louisiana (Đông Nam LA)Thành Phố Springfield và Viện Y Tế Công Cộng Tây Massachusetts (Springfield, MA)Hiệp Hội Tài Nguyên Năng Lượng Bộ Lạc Trung Tây và Các Giải Pháp Thay Thế Lưới Điện (MI, MN, WI)Hệ Thống Metrohealth và Giải Pháp Nhà Ở Cộng Đồng (Cleveland, OH)Quận Lane Oregon và United Way của Quận Lane (Hạt Lane, OR)Quân Đoàn Bảo Tồn Pittsburgh và PowerCorpsPHL (Pittsburgh/Philadelphia, PA)Quỹ Tín Thác Đất Công và Thành Phố Chattanooga (Chattanooga, TN)Thành Phố Houston và Quỹ Liên Hiệp Người Da Đen Texas (Houston, TX)Tập Đoàn Đại Học Gonzaga và Các Đối Tác Hành Động Khu Phố Spokane (Spokane, WA)Ủy Ban Nhà Ở Quốc Gia và Trung Tâm Luật Trẻ Em D.C. (Washington, D.C.)Track II, Sự Tham Gia Có Ý Nghĩa để Quản Trị Công Bằng, dự kiến sẽ trao khoảng $40 triệu đô la cho 20 dự án, mỗi dự án trị giá $1-3 triệu đô la. Những người đăng ký Track II sẽ tạo điều kiện cho cá nhân và cộng đồng tham gia vào quá trình ra quyết định của chính phủ là:Chương Trình Insight Garden và Trung Tâm Nhân Quyền Ella Baker (nhiều địa điểm ở CA)Niềm Tin Dành Cho Đất Công và Hẹn Gặp Bạn Ở Đỉnh Cao (Cleveland, OH)Dịch Vụ Đặc Biệt Dành cho Groups, Inc. và Trung Tâm Dành cho Người Mỹ Gốc Á Thống Nhất Để Trao Quyền cho Bản Thân (Los Angeles, CA)Bronx River Alliance, Inc. và Bộ Thanh Niên vì Hòa Bình và Công Lý (Quận Bronx, NY)Trong số 21 lựa chọn, có ba lựa chọn dành cho Lĩnh Vực Đầu Tư Mục Tiêu được xác định trong NOFO. Việc Tài Trợ Cho Khu Vực Đầu Tư Mục Tiêu nhằm đảm bảo rằng nguồn tài trợ của Chương Trình Tài Trợ Thay Đổi Cộng Đồng được hướng tới các cộng đồng có hoàn cảnh khó khăn với hoàn cảnh, địa lý, và nhu cầu đặc biệt.Xem danh sách đầy đủ của 21 tổ chức ban đầu nhận được trợ cấp CCGP và tìm hiểu thêm về CCGP.Vì Chương Trình Tài Trợ Thay Đổi Cộng Đồng vẫn đang chấp nhận đơn đăng ký cho đến ngày 21 Tháng Mười Một, 2024, EPA khuyến khích người đăng ký nộp đơn ngay khi họ đáp ứng đầy đủ các yêu cầu của NOFO. EPA sẽ thực hiện các lựa chọn bổ sung luân phiên trong thời gian còn lại của năm 2024. EPA cũng khuyến khích những người đăng ký nào quan tâm nên nộp đơn xin hỗ trợ kỹ thuật càng sớm càng tốt vì ngày cuối cùng để yêu cầu hỗ trợ kỹ thuật mới là ngày 16 Tháng Tám, 2024.Đọc Tài Trợ Thay Đổi Cộng Đồng NOFO trên trang web Chương Trình Tài Trợ Thay Đổi Cộng Đồng Theo Đạo Luật Giảm Lạm Phát của EPA .Để tìm hiểu thêm về Trợ Cấp Thay Đổi Cộng Đồng và Hỗ Trợ Kỹ Thuật, hãy truy cập trang web Chương Trình Tài Trợ Thay Đổi Cộng Đồng Theo Đạo Luật Giảm Lạm Phát của EPA .Để tìm hiểu thêm về công lý môi trường tại EPA, hãy truy cập trang web Công Lý Môi Trường của EPA . Để biết thông tin cập nhật về NOFO, bao gồm thông tin về các hội thảo trên web, hãy đăng ký danh sách của Văn Phòng Công Lý Môi Trường và Quyền Dân Sự Bên Ngoài bằng cách gửi một email trống tới: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Theo dõi chúng tôi trên X (trước đây là Twitter): @EPAEnvJustice.

Administrasyon Biden-Harris la Anonse Plis Pase 325 Milyon Dola nan Sibvansyon pou Chanjman Kominotè Konsènan Jistis Anviwònmantal ak Klimatik

WASHINGTON – Today, July 26, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army announced today a joint project to conduct sampling and testing of private drinking water wells located near Army installations for the presence of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This effort will inform Army remedial actions if results indicate that PFAS is found in drinking water, because PFAS contamination has spread and may potentially be impacting the drinking water wells of nearby residents.The joint EPA-Army sampling and testing project, which is being implemented nationally, has identified a priority list of nine installations out of 235 locations. As initial work is completed, EPA and the Army will evaluate additional installations for expansion of the pilot. EPA and the Army are working in partnership to identify next steps to ensure the public remains safe from exposure to PFAS potentially originating from these installations. This initial joint program is another step in EPA’s efforts to protect people from the health risks posed by exposure to “forever chemicals” in communities across the country.The installations scheduled for sampling under the program are: Fort Novosel (Alabama)Fort Hunter Liggett – Parks Reserve Forces Training Area (California)Fort Stewart (Georgia)Fort Stewart – Hunter Army Airfield (Georgia)Blue Grass Army Depot (Kentucky)Fort Campbell (Kentucky & Tennessee)Fort Liberty (North Carolina)Fort Sill (Oklahoma)McAlester Army Ammunition Plant (Oklahoma)“PFAS pose significant risks to drinking water supplies and public health, which is why the EPA and the Army are testing water from wells in communities near Army installations to determine if these dangerous forever chemicals are polluting drinking water,” said David M. Uhlmann, EPA’s Assistant Administrator for Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “Members of the military, their families, and surrounding communities deserve access to clean, safe drinking water. EPA welcomes the opportunity to share our expertise and work with the Army on this important project, which will help advance EPA’s PFAS National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative.”“The Army commenced a comprehensive program in 2017 to identify potential PFAS releases at hundreds of Army and Army National Guard installations across the country. These initial investigations, completed by the Army in 2023, were instrumental in narrowing the focus to 235 locations where we will proceed with more in-depth investigations.” said Rachel Jacobson, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy, and Environment. “For the nine installations that are part of our joint pilot program with EPA, the Army has already begun more in-depth investigations. The Army welcomes EPA’s collaboration as it continues to evaluate whether PFAS from past Army activities has impacted our neighboring communities and if so, takes steps to mitigate those impacts.”If the sampling indicates that PFAS is present in groundwater or drinking water above the new Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) established by EPA, then the Army will work with EPA and state regulators to assess what additional actions are necessary to mitigate exposure.PFAS are widely used, long-lasting chemicals, components of which break down very slowly over time. Because of their widespread use and their persistence in the environment, many PFAS are being found worldwide. PFAS have been found in groundwater and soil at many federal facilities, including at military sites. The Army has used PFAS in various operations, including in foam to extinguish fires. EPA and the Army will share information and update both EPA’s and DoD’s PFAS websites as information becomes available. For more information about PFAS, please visit EPA’s or DoD’s PFAS websites. Please visit EPA’s National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative website: Addressing Exposure to PFAS to learn more about EPA’s PFAS enforcement. Residents with concerns about PFAS in drinking water can also consult EPA’s guidance on the use of home filters to reduce PFAS levels.Biden-⁠Harris Administration Takes Critical Action to Protect Communities from PFASIn addition to efforts across the government, EPA has taken action under the agency’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap to control PFAS at its sources, hold polluters accountable, ensure science-based decision making, advance environmental justice, and address the impacts on disadvantaged communities. Since launching the Roadmap in 2021, EPA has taken a suite of actions to protect communities from exposure to “forever chemicals” including:Established first-ever national legally enforceable drinking water standard for PFAS: In April 2024, EPA finalized National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for six PFAS which will protect 100 million people from PFAS exposure, prevent tens of thousands of serious illnesses, and save lives. This action complements the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to combatting PFAS pollution and delivering clean water.Dedicated $10 billion in funding to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants in water: President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law secured the largest-ever investment in tackling PFAS pollution in water, including $9 billion for drinking water and $1 billion for clean water investments. An additional $12 billion in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law supports general drinking water investments, including PFAS treatment. The investments are part of the Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities. Designated Two PFAS as Hazardous Substances: In April 2024, EPA finalized a critical rule to designate two widely used PFAS as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, also known as Superfund. This step improves transparency and accountability to clean up PFAS contamination in communities. In addition to the final rule, EPA issued a separate CERCLA enforcement discretion policy that makes clear that EPA will focus enforcement on parties who significantly contributed to the release of PFAS chemicals into the environment.Guidance on Destroying and Disposing of PFAS: In April 2024, EPA released updated Interim Guidance which outlines the best-available science on techniques and treatments that may be used to destroy or dispose of PFAS and PFAS-containing materials from non-consumer products, including aqueous film-forming foam for firefighting, and highlights innovation and emerging technologies that warrant further evaluation.Addressing on-going uses of PFAS: In January 2024, EPA finalized a rule that prevents companies from starting or resuming the manufacture or processing of 329 PFAS; released three methods to better measure PFAS in the environment; and announced the addition of seven PFAS to the list of chemicals covered by the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI), consistent with the Fiscal Year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act.