EPA Seeks Nominations for the Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Federal Advisory Committee
WASHINGTON — Today, July 24, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a solicitation for nominations to serve on its Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Federal Advisory Committee (FRRCC). Established in 2008, the FRRCC provides independent policy advice, information, and recommendations to the EPA Administrator on a range of environmental issues and policies that are of importance to agriculture and rural communities.
“The FRRCC provides a venue for agricultural stakeholders to provide meaningful feedback to EPA regarding a range of policies and programs,” said Rod Snyder, Senior Agriculture Advisor to the Administrator. “The work of this committee is more important than ever as the FRRCC helps inform the priorities of EPA’s newly created Office of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.”
Earlier this year, the FRRCC issued policy recommendations to Administrator Michael S. Regan about how EPA’s programs and authorities can help support and accelerate U.S. agriculture’s climate goals. This includes partnership opportunities to support farmers and ranchers in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to more frequent extreme weather events. In response to the committee’s recommendations, Administrator Regan established EPA’s first-ever Office of Agriculture and Rural Affairs to ensure long-term collaboration with agricultural and rural stakeholders.
To build a broad and balanced representation of perspectives for the FRRCC, members will be selected from a variety of relevant sectors. Members may represent farmers, ranchers, and rural communities; allied industries, including farm groups, rural suppliers, marketers, and processors; academia and researchers; state, local, and tribal government; and nongovernmental organizations. EPA values and welcomes opportunities to increase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility on its federal advisory committees.
To be considered for an appointment to the FRRCC, nominations should be submitted to FRRCC@epa.gov by September 5, 2024, with the subject line “FRRCC Membership 2024.” Nominations should include a résumé or curriculum vitae and a statement of interest. Letters of support and recommendation will be accepted but are not mandatory.
“The FRRCC provides a venue for agricultural stakeholders to provide meaningful feedback to EPA regarding a range of policies and programs,” said Rod Snyder, Senior Agriculture Advisor to the Administrator. “The work of this committee is more important than ever as the FRRCC helps inform the priorities of EPA’s newly created Office of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.”
Earlier this year, the FRRCC issued policy recommendations to Administrator Michael S. Regan about how EPA’s programs and authorities can help support and accelerate U.S. agriculture’s climate goals. This includes partnership opportunities to support farmers and ranchers in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to more frequent extreme weather events. In response to the committee’s recommendations, Administrator Regan established EPA’s first-ever Office of Agriculture and Rural Affairs to ensure long-term collaboration with agricultural and rural stakeholders.
To build a broad and balanced representation of perspectives for the FRRCC, members will be selected from a variety of relevant sectors. Members may represent farmers, ranchers, and rural communities; allied industries, including farm groups, rural suppliers, marketers, and processors; academia and researchers; state, local, and tribal government; and nongovernmental organizations. EPA values and welcomes opportunities to increase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility on its federal advisory committees.
To be considered for an appointment to the FRRCC, nominations should be submitted to FRRCC@epa.gov by September 5, 2024, with the subject line “FRRCC Membership 2024.” Nominations should include a résumé or curriculum vitae and a statement of interest. Letters of support and recommendation will be accepted but are not mandatory.
EPA, Erie Water Works Celebrate Biden-Harris Administration Investment to Remove Lead from Drinking Water
Erie, Penn. – Today, in Erie, Pennsylvania, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Assistant Administrator for Water Bruno Pigott, Erie Mayor Joe Schember, and other officials celebrated federal funding and the water utility’s progress protecting its drinking water from lead. Since 2021, Erie Water Works has received $49 million of federal funding to replace lead pipes in environmental justice areas of the City of Erie. The Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provided more than $42 million of this investment.
“The science is clear that there is no safe level of lead in drinking water, which is why the Biden-Harris Administration is providing historic investment through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to replace lead pipes that deliver drinking water to homes, schools, and businesses,” said EPA Acting Assistant Administrator for Water Bruno Pigott. “Here in northwest Pennsylvania, I’m excited to see Erie Water Works investing these funds to protect public health and benefit environmental justice communities while creating local jobs and economic opportunity in the process.”
Of the funding Erie Water Works has received since 2021, nearly $40 million has been provided as grants, helping reduce project costs as the community accelerates its lead removal efforts. While the city does not have any lead service lines, they do have lead “goosenecks” or short sections of pipe that need to be replaced. Between 2022 and 2027, Erie Water Works anticipates replacing over 7,200 lead goosenecks and any associated galvanized service lines. These efforts bolster the economy of northwest Pennsylvania by creating jobs. Thus far, all of the contractors who have assisted on this project are based locally in Erie County.
“The City of Erie and Erie Water Works have been on the cutting edge for decades. We applaud the investment and the efforts of the EPA and Erie Water Works to remove the remaining lead goosenecks to ensure access to clean, safe drinking water. This is an unprecedented investment and an incredible project for our community,” said City of Erie Mayor Joe Schember.
“Erie Water Works is a prime example of how communities across Pennsylvania can leverage clean water project funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law through the State Revolving Fund,” said Brendan Linton, project specialist, Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST). “Since our founding in 1988, PENNVEST has provided over $12 billion for clean water infrastructure projects across the Commonwealth, including $312 million directly to projects in Erie County which protect public health, improve quality of life, and promote economic development.”
In addition to these efforts to protect the community from the impact of lead, Erie Water Works has invested $70 million in upgrading its primary water treatment plant to include structural and architectural enhancements, a state-of-the-art laboratory, new operations and training facilities, and more. Erie Water Works showcased the upgrades on a tour with Acting Assistant Administrator Pigott today.
Background
The Biden-Harris Administration and bipartisan Congressional action have delivered the single-largest investment in U.S. water infrastructure ever. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests more than $50 billion through EPA’s highly successful water infrastructure programs. With this funding, EPA, states, Tribes, and localities have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to strengthen and rebuild America’s water infrastructure. EPA is committed to ensuring that all communities, particularly disadvantaged and underserved communities, get their fair share of this federal water infrastructure investment. More information about the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is available at www.epa.gov/infrastructure.
“The science is clear that there is no safe level of lead in drinking water, which is why the Biden-Harris Administration is providing historic investment through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to replace lead pipes that deliver drinking water to homes, schools, and businesses,” said EPA Acting Assistant Administrator for Water Bruno Pigott. “Here in northwest Pennsylvania, I’m excited to see Erie Water Works investing these funds to protect public health and benefit environmental justice communities while creating local jobs and economic opportunity in the process.”
Of the funding Erie Water Works has received since 2021, nearly $40 million has been provided as grants, helping reduce project costs as the community accelerates its lead removal efforts. While the city does not have any lead service lines, they do have lead “goosenecks” or short sections of pipe that need to be replaced. Between 2022 and 2027, Erie Water Works anticipates replacing over 7,200 lead goosenecks and any associated galvanized service lines. These efforts bolster the economy of northwest Pennsylvania by creating jobs. Thus far, all of the contractors who have assisted on this project are based locally in Erie County.
“The City of Erie and Erie Water Works have been on the cutting edge for decades. We applaud the investment and the efforts of the EPA and Erie Water Works to remove the remaining lead goosenecks to ensure access to clean, safe drinking water. This is an unprecedented investment and an incredible project for our community,” said City of Erie Mayor Joe Schember.
“Erie Water Works is a prime example of how communities across Pennsylvania can leverage clean water project funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law through the State Revolving Fund,” said Brendan Linton, project specialist, Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST). “Since our founding in 1988, PENNVEST has provided over $12 billion for clean water infrastructure projects across the Commonwealth, including $312 million directly to projects in Erie County which protect public health, improve quality of life, and promote economic development.”
In addition to these efforts to protect the community from the impact of lead, Erie Water Works has invested $70 million in upgrading its primary water treatment plant to include structural and architectural enhancements, a state-of-the-art laboratory, new operations and training facilities, and more. Erie Water Works showcased the upgrades on a tour with Acting Assistant Administrator Pigott today.
Background
The Biden-Harris Administration and bipartisan Congressional action have delivered the single-largest investment in U.S. water infrastructure ever. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests more than $50 billion through EPA’s highly successful water infrastructure programs. With this funding, EPA, states, Tribes, and localities have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to strengthen and rebuild America’s water infrastructure. EPA is committed to ensuring that all communities, particularly disadvantaged and underserved communities, get their fair share of this federal water infrastructure investment. More information about the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is available at www.epa.gov/infrastructure.
EPA Region 7 Presents $500K Brownfields Check to Schuyler Community Development in Nebraska
LENEXA, KAN. (JULY 24, 2024) – Today at a brownfield site in Schuyler, Nebraska, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister presented a $500,000 ceremonial check to Schuyler Community Development as an EPA Brownfields Assessment Grant selectee.
EPA selected the organization to receive the grant through EPA’s Brownfields Multipurpose, Assessment, and Cleanup (MAC) Grants program. MAC Grant funds help transform once-polluted, vacant, and abandoned properties into community assets, while helping to create good jobs and spur economic revitalization in overburdened communities.
"EPA Region 7 is proud to deliver these Brownfields funding resources to the Schuyler community. Our rural communities face unique challenges in addressing brownfields, and many lack the resources to tackle the redevelopment of brownfields on their own," McCollister said. "With this grant, Schuyler Community Development can take another step toward turning blight into might."
This is the first time Schuyler Community Development has been selected for funding through the EPA Brownfields MAC Grants program. The target area for this grant is the Downtown Historic District of Schuyler. Priority sites include a former hotel, municipal power plant, and grain elevator.
“With the help of the City of Schuyler and stakeholders, including the Schuyler Area Chamber of Commerce, Center for Rural Affairs, CHI Health-Schuyler, and local business in Schuyler's Downtown Historic District, SCD greatly appreciates the opportunity to utilize EPA Brownfields funding to help assess and revitalize our historic downtown and other areas of town that have lacked sufficient resources in the past,” said Schuyler Community Development Economic Development Coordinator Brian Bywater. “Revitalization and redevelopment of the Downtown Historic District and the broader community through a strategic Brownfield Program will bring investment, jobs, beautification and, most importantly, a greater opportunity for Schuyler's residents.”
Grant funds will be used to conduct multiple Phase I and Phase II environmental site assessments. This funding will also be used to identify and prioritize additional sites; develop four cleanup plans; conduct three visioning sessions; prepare three site reuse assessments and one revitalization plan; and perform community engagement activities.
Background
EPA’s Brownfields program began in 1995 and has provided nearly $2.7 billion in Brownfields Grants to assess and clean up contaminated properties and return blighted properties to productive reuse. Prior to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this program made approximately $60 million available each year. Thanks to the President’s historic investments in America through this law, EPA has increased that yearly investment by nearly 400%.
More than half of the funding available for this grant cycle (approximately $160 million) comes from the historic $1.5 billion investment from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This investment has also allowed the MAC Grants’ maximum award amounts to increase significantly from $500,000 to a new maximum of $5 million per award.
To see the list of the fiscal year 2024 MAC applicants selected for funding, visit EPA’s webpage.
Learn more about EPA’s Brownfields program.
# # #
Learn more about EPA Region 7
View all Region 7 news releases
Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook and Instagram
Follow us on X: @EPARegion7
EPA selected the organization to receive the grant through EPA’s Brownfields Multipurpose, Assessment, and Cleanup (MAC) Grants program. MAC Grant funds help transform once-polluted, vacant, and abandoned properties into community assets, while helping to create good jobs and spur economic revitalization in overburdened communities.
"EPA Region 7 is proud to deliver these Brownfields funding resources to the Schuyler community. Our rural communities face unique challenges in addressing brownfields, and many lack the resources to tackle the redevelopment of brownfields on their own," McCollister said. "With this grant, Schuyler Community Development can take another step toward turning blight into might."
This is the first time Schuyler Community Development has been selected for funding through the EPA Brownfields MAC Grants program. The target area for this grant is the Downtown Historic District of Schuyler. Priority sites include a former hotel, municipal power plant, and grain elevator.
“With the help of the City of Schuyler and stakeholders, including the Schuyler Area Chamber of Commerce, Center for Rural Affairs, CHI Health-Schuyler, and local business in Schuyler's Downtown Historic District, SCD greatly appreciates the opportunity to utilize EPA Brownfields funding to help assess and revitalize our historic downtown and other areas of town that have lacked sufficient resources in the past,” said Schuyler Community Development Economic Development Coordinator Brian Bywater. “Revitalization and redevelopment of the Downtown Historic District and the broader community through a strategic Brownfield Program will bring investment, jobs, beautification and, most importantly, a greater opportunity for Schuyler's residents.”
Grant funds will be used to conduct multiple Phase I and Phase II environmental site assessments. This funding will also be used to identify and prioritize additional sites; develop four cleanup plans; conduct three visioning sessions; prepare three site reuse assessments and one revitalization plan; and perform community engagement activities.
Background
EPA’s Brownfields program began in 1995 and has provided nearly $2.7 billion in Brownfields Grants to assess and clean up contaminated properties and return blighted properties to productive reuse. Prior to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this program made approximately $60 million available each year. Thanks to the President’s historic investments in America through this law, EPA has increased that yearly investment by nearly 400%.
More than half of the funding available for this grant cycle (approximately $160 million) comes from the historic $1.5 billion investment from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This investment has also allowed the MAC Grants’ maximum award amounts to increase significantly from $500,000 to a new maximum of $5 million per award.
To see the list of the fiscal year 2024 MAC applicants selected for funding, visit EPA’s webpage.
Learn more about EPA’s Brownfields program.
# # #
Learn more about EPA Region 7
View all Region 7 news releases
Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook and Instagram
Follow us on X: @EPARegion7
House approves bill authorizing harbor projects in Baltimore, Oakland
The passage of the Water Resources Development Act in the House of Representatives brings Congress one step closer to authorizing major navigational projects at the two ports.
House approves bill authorizing harbor projects in Baltimore, Oakland
The passage of the Water Resources Development Act in the House of Representatives brings Congress one step closer to authorizing major navigational projects at the two ports.
Biden-Harris Administration Advances Early Wildfire Detection by Expanding Use of Satellites as Part of Investing in America agenda
WASHINGTON, July 23, 2024 — The Biden-Harris administration today announced it is taking additional steps to safeguard western communities in the face of increasingly dangerous and intense wildland fires by building advanced wildfire detection capabilities using satellite technology. The Department of the Interior and U.S.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Virginia DEQ Selection as Part of Coalitions to Receive Grants for Community-Driven Solutions to Cut Climate Pollution
PHILADELPHIA (July 23, 2024) – Today, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the general competition selection of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality to receive approximately $150 million through two Climate Pollution Reduction Grants to implement community-driven solutions that tackle the climate crisis, reduce air pollution, advance environmental justice, and accelerate America’s clean energy transition.
The Virginia DEQ’s selected application, submitted as a coalition with Virginia Energy, will receive more than $99 million through a competitive grant program for projects that will capture and convert or reuse methane emissions from coal mines and landfills. The selected application will also establish a partnership with other state agencies to fund a competitive grant program for food rescue and composting programs at agencies, colleges and university campuses across Virginia.
Additionally, the Virginia DEQ will also serve as a coalition member in another selected application led by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The coalition is set to receive more than $420 million, with approximately $50 million allocated for Virginia DEQ to reduce GHG emissions through carbon sequestration projects on natural and working lands, including coastal wetlands, peatlands, and forests.
“President Biden believes in the power of community-driven solutions to fight climate change, protect public health, and grow our economy. Thanks to his leadership, the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program will deliver unprecedented resources to states, local governments, and Tribes to fund the solutions that work best in their communities,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Selected recipients have put forward ambitious plans to advance sustainable agriculture, deploy clean industrial technologies, cut emissions and energy costs in homes and commercial buildings, and provide cost- and energy-efficient heating and cooling to communities, creating economic and workforce development opportunities along the way.”
"Investments such as this are paramount to ensuring communities across the region who are impacted the most have access to reduced climate and air pollution," said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “We need our partners to help us in tackling climate challenges. The work of these organizations will allow them to take the steps to ensure better quality air for future generations."
“I’m thrilled Virginia is receiving this nearly $100 million grant to reduce air pollution throughout the Commonwealth, including through a proposed project that will reduce methane emissions at coal mines and landfills,” said U.S. Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA). “In addition, I’m excited Virginia will serve as a coalition member in a multi-state regional application that was selected to receive more than $420 million to fund projects designed to reduce carbon emissions through natural climate solutions on natural and working lands, forested lands, wetlands, and coastal habitats.”
“Reducing methane emissions is critical to ensuring clean air and protecting our communities from the effects of climate change,” said U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA). “I’m glad this federal funding is headed to Virginia to reduce pollution, improve air quality, and protect our beautiful Commonwealth.”
“The Inflation Reduction Act continues to deliver for Virginia,” said U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-3). “This funding, through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program, will enable Virginia to curb heat-trapping methane emissions. This funding will reduce air pollution in some of the commonwealth’s most underserved communities while helping to combat the climate crisis.”
“The Biden-Harris Administration is leading an historic fight against climate change in the United States and across the globe,” said U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (VA-11). “Today’s announcement of $150 million for the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality is just the latest in a long line of investments this Administration has made to help communities like ours respond to and prepare for the threat of climate change. This funding will go a long way toward cleaning our air and reducing our emissions to the benefit of all Virginians. I can’t wait to see these dollars at work.”
“I am pleased that Virginia will be taking advantage of EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program – one of the successful climate initiatives to come out of the Biden-Harris Administration and the Inflation Reduction Act, which I strongly supported in Congress,” said U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (VA-8). “This investment will enable VADEQ to implement vital, community-driven solutions to reduce harmful methane emissions from landfills and coal mines while improving air quality and protecting public health, in addition to supporting food rescue and composting programs. I thank the EPA for their critical work to tackle greenhouse gases and harmful pollutants and help build a more sustainable America.”
“I was proud to vote to pass the Inflation Reduction Act — which made today’s grant announcement possible — to help our Commonwealth and our country invest in our clean energy future,” said U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger (VA-7). “As the only Virginian on the House Agriculture Committee and as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology, I’m focused on building a healthier environment for the next generation through voluntary conservation programs and responsible land management. This significant investment will further empower our Commonwealth to responsibly address climate change, and I look forward to seeing the on-the-ground impact of these federal dollars in Virginia.”
“I am pleased that the Inflation Reduction Act is once again delivering to create a cleaner and more sustainable future for our children here in Virginia,” said U.S. Rep. Jennifer Wexton (VA-10). “This grant, which was made possible by our work in Congress alongside the Biden-Harris administration, will improve air quality by helping to crack down on methane emissions from landfills and coal mines. I look forward to continuing to work to implement new ways to protect our environment for future generations.”
“For too long, marginalized communities have borne the brunt of our worsening climate crisis,” said U.S. Rep. Jennifer McClellan (VA-4). “Under the Biden-Harris Administration, we have made historic investments to address climate change and advance environmental justice. I am glad to see the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality's Priority Methane Reduction Project receive funding to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from landfills and coal mines. I commend EPA Administrator Regan for his leadership, and I look forward to our continued collaboration.”
EPA made its selections through a rigorous grants competition that was designed to be fair and impartial. The Agency reviewed nearly 300 applications that were submitted by entities from across the country and requested a total of nearly $33 billion in funding.
The 25 selected applications – from states, a Tribe, local governments, and coalitions of these entities – will receive federal funding to implement local and regional solutions. Many of these projects can be expanded and provide examples that other states, local governments, Tribes, and even businesses can replicate in their work to tackle the climate crisis.
Together, these selected projects will implement ambitious climate pollution reduction measures designed by states, Tribes and local governments that will achieve significant cumulative GHG reductions by 2030 and beyond.
When estimates provided by all selected applicants are combined, the proposed projects would reduce greenhouse gas pollution by as much as 971 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2050, roughly the emissions from 5 million average homes’ energy use each year for over 25 years.
EPA expects to announce up to an additional $300 million in selections under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program for Tribes, Tribal consortia, and territories later this summer.
State, Tribal, and local action is vital to deliver on the President’s commitment to reduce climate pollution by over 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions no later than 2050. The innovative measures contained in the selected applications, developed with input from local communities, are expected to achieve substantial public health benefits such as reducing exposure to extreme heat, improving air quality, reducing energy burden for lower income Americans, improving climate resilience, and providing workforce and economic development opportunities, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged communities.
The Climate Pollution Reduction Grants advance President Biden’s historic Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure 40% of the overall benefits of certain climate, clean energy, and other federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.
The grants will fund projects supporting the deployment of technologies and programs to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful pollution across the country and build the infrastructure, housing, industry, and competitive economy needed for a clean energy future.
These grants will also help businesses capitalize on new opportunities, spur economic growth and job creation in new and growing industries, and support development of training programs to prepare workers. EPA expects to award the funds later this year, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.
Many of the proposed projects contained in the selected applications announced today, as well as the $250 million in planning grant funding that EPA is providing under the CPRG program for development of Climate Action Plans by state, local, and Tribal governments across the country, will complement the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic federal actions and national climate strategies across sectors. Those include: the U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization, the Administration’s efforts to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2035 and make zero emissions construction common practice by 2030, the Industrial Decarbonization Roadmap, the U.S. Buildings Decarbonization Blueprint, the Administration’s climate-smart agriculture efforts and Nature Based Solutions Roadmap, the U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan, the National Climate Resilience Framework, and more.
Learn more about the selected applications
Learn more about the CPRG program
The Virginia DEQ’s selected application, submitted as a coalition with Virginia Energy, will receive more than $99 million through a competitive grant program for projects that will capture and convert or reuse methane emissions from coal mines and landfills. The selected application will also establish a partnership with other state agencies to fund a competitive grant program for food rescue and composting programs at agencies, colleges and university campuses across Virginia.
Additionally, the Virginia DEQ will also serve as a coalition member in another selected application led by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The coalition is set to receive more than $420 million, with approximately $50 million allocated for Virginia DEQ to reduce GHG emissions through carbon sequestration projects on natural and working lands, including coastal wetlands, peatlands, and forests.
“President Biden believes in the power of community-driven solutions to fight climate change, protect public health, and grow our economy. Thanks to his leadership, the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program will deliver unprecedented resources to states, local governments, and Tribes to fund the solutions that work best in their communities,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Selected recipients have put forward ambitious plans to advance sustainable agriculture, deploy clean industrial technologies, cut emissions and energy costs in homes and commercial buildings, and provide cost- and energy-efficient heating and cooling to communities, creating economic and workforce development opportunities along the way.”
"Investments such as this are paramount to ensuring communities across the region who are impacted the most have access to reduced climate and air pollution," said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “We need our partners to help us in tackling climate challenges. The work of these organizations will allow them to take the steps to ensure better quality air for future generations."
“I’m thrilled Virginia is receiving this nearly $100 million grant to reduce air pollution throughout the Commonwealth, including through a proposed project that will reduce methane emissions at coal mines and landfills,” said U.S. Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA). “In addition, I’m excited Virginia will serve as a coalition member in a multi-state regional application that was selected to receive more than $420 million to fund projects designed to reduce carbon emissions through natural climate solutions on natural and working lands, forested lands, wetlands, and coastal habitats.”
“Reducing methane emissions is critical to ensuring clean air and protecting our communities from the effects of climate change,” said U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA). “I’m glad this federal funding is headed to Virginia to reduce pollution, improve air quality, and protect our beautiful Commonwealth.”
“The Inflation Reduction Act continues to deliver for Virginia,” said U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-3). “This funding, through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program, will enable Virginia to curb heat-trapping methane emissions. This funding will reduce air pollution in some of the commonwealth’s most underserved communities while helping to combat the climate crisis.”
“The Biden-Harris Administration is leading an historic fight against climate change in the United States and across the globe,” said U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (VA-11). “Today’s announcement of $150 million for the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality is just the latest in a long line of investments this Administration has made to help communities like ours respond to and prepare for the threat of climate change. This funding will go a long way toward cleaning our air and reducing our emissions to the benefit of all Virginians. I can’t wait to see these dollars at work.”
“I am pleased that Virginia will be taking advantage of EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program – one of the successful climate initiatives to come out of the Biden-Harris Administration and the Inflation Reduction Act, which I strongly supported in Congress,” said U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (VA-8). “This investment will enable VADEQ to implement vital, community-driven solutions to reduce harmful methane emissions from landfills and coal mines while improving air quality and protecting public health, in addition to supporting food rescue and composting programs. I thank the EPA for their critical work to tackle greenhouse gases and harmful pollutants and help build a more sustainable America.”
“I was proud to vote to pass the Inflation Reduction Act — which made today’s grant announcement possible — to help our Commonwealth and our country invest in our clean energy future,” said U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger (VA-7). “As the only Virginian on the House Agriculture Committee and as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology, I’m focused on building a healthier environment for the next generation through voluntary conservation programs and responsible land management. This significant investment will further empower our Commonwealth to responsibly address climate change, and I look forward to seeing the on-the-ground impact of these federal dollars in Virginia.”
“I am pleased that the Inflation Reduction Act is once again delivering to create a cleaner and more sustainable future for our children here in Virginia,” said U.S. Rep. Jennifer Wexton (VA-10). “This grant, which was made possible by our work in Congress alongside the Biden-Harris administration, will improve air quality by helping to crack down on methane emissions from landfills and coal mines. I look forward to continuing to work to implement new ways to protect our environment for future generations.”
“For too long, marginalized communities have borne the brunt of our worsening climate crisis,” said U.S. Rep. Jennifer McClellan (VA-4). “Under the Biden-Harris Administration, we have made historic investments to address climate change and advance environmental justice. I am glad to see the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality's Priority Methane Reduction Project receive funding to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from landfills and coal mines. I commend EPA Administrator Regan for his leadership, and I look forward to our continued collaboration.”
EPA made its selections through a rigorous grants competition that was designed to be fair and impartial. The Agency reviewed nearly 300 applications that were submitted by entities from across the country and requested a total of nearly $33 billion in funding.
The 25 selected applications – from states, a Tribe, local governments, and coalitions of these entities – will receive federal funding to implement local and regional solutions. Many of these projects can be expanded and provide examples that other states, local governments, Tribes, and even businesses can replicate in their work to tackle the climate crisis.
Together, these selected projects will implement ambitious climate pollution reduction measures designed by states, Tribes and local governments that will achieve significant cumulative GHG reductions by 2030 and beyond.
When estimates provided by all selected applicants are combined, the proposed projects would reduce greenhouse gas pollution by as much as 971 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2050, roughly the emissions from 5 million average homes’ energy use each year for over 25 years.
EPA expects to announce up to an additional $300 million in selections under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program for Tribes, Tribal consortia, and territories later this summer.
State, Tribal, and local action is vital to deliver on the President’s commitment to reduce climate pollution by over 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions no later than 2050. The innovative measures contained in the selected applications, developed with input from local communities, are expected to achieve substantial public health benefits such as reducing exposure to extreme heat, improving air quality, reducing energy burden for lower income Americans, improving climate resilience, and providing workforce and economic development opportunities, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged communities.
The Climate Pollution Reduction Grants advance President Biden’s historic Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure 40% of the overall benefits of certain climate, clean energy, and other federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.
The grants will fund projects supporting the deployment of technologies and programs to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful pollution across the country and build the infrastructure, housing, industry, and competitive economy needed for a clean energy future.
These grants will also help businesses capitalize on new opportunities, spur economic growth and job creation in new and growing industries, and support development of training programs to prepare workers. EPA expects to award the funds later this year, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.
Many of the proposed projects contained in the selected applications announced today, as well as the $250 million in planning grant funding that EPA is providing under the CPRG program for development of Climate Action Plans by state, local, and Tribal governments across the country, will complement the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic federal actions and national climate strategies across sectors. Those include: the U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization, the Administration’s efforts to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2035 and make zero emissions construction common practice by 2030, the Industrial Decarbonization Roadmap, the U.S. Buildings Decarbonization Blueprint, the Administration’s climate-smart agriculture efforts and Nature Based Solutions Roadmap, the U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan, the National Climate Resilience Framework, and more.
Learn more about the selected applications
Learn more about the CPRG program
EPA announces $38 million to cut climate pollution, improve air quality, and advance environmental justice in Alaska
SEATTLE – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the general competition selection of the Southeast Conference of Alaska to receive a $38,646,534 Climate Pollution Reduction Grant. The Southeast Conference of Alaska (Alaskan Southern Coastal Communities) is among 25 selected applications to receive $4.3 billion in funding for community-driven solutions that tackle the climate crisis, reduce air pollution, and advance environmental justice.
Lead by the Southeast Conference (Alaskan Southern Coastal Communities), the Accelerating Clean Energy Savings in Alaska's Coastal Communities grant will provide advisory services and incentives to replace residential oil burning systems with energy-efficient heat pumps in 50 Alaskan communities.
“Every community is feeling the impacts of climate change, from heat waves and drought conditions to increased wildfire smoke and severe winter storms. We must act collaboratively to reduce carbon emissions and to address the adverse impacts on people’s health and our economic prosperity,” said EPA Regional Administrator Casey Sixkiller. “Through the Biden Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, EPA is partnering with states and local communities to make the largest investments ever in green buildings, clean energy transportation, and climate justice, and the Pacific Northwest continues to lead the way.”
"Southeast Conference has long worked with Alaska’s distressed coastal communities to displace imported fossil fuels and utilize clean, renewable resources,” said Southeast Conference Executive Director Robert Venables. “We are grateful for this award which will make transformational changes toward our shared mission of sustainable, vibrant communities with a healthy environment.”
EPA made its selections through a rigorous grant competition, reviewing nearly 300 applications to ensure the competition was fair and impartial. Applications were submitted by entities from across the country and requested a total of nearly $33 billion in funding.
The 25 selected applications – from states, a Tribe, local governments, and coalitions of these entities – will receive federal funding to implement local and regional solutions. Many of these projects can be expanded and provide examples and blueprints that other states, local governments, Tribes, and even businesses can replicate in their work to tackle the climate crisis.
These selected projects will implement ambitious climate pollution reduction measures designed by states, Tribes and local governments that will achieve significant cumulative GHG reductions by 2030 and beyond. Together, these grants are estimated to reduce greenhouse gas pollution by as much as 148 million metric tons by 2030 and by 971 million metric tons by 2050, based on estimates provided by the selected applicants. Learn more about the selected applications.
EPA expects to announce up to an additional $300 million in selections under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program for Tribes, Tribal consortia, and territories in the coming weeks. Learn more about the CPRG program.
The grants will fund projects supporting the deployment of technologies and programs to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful pollution across the country and build the infrastructure, housing, industry, and competitive economy needed for a clean energy future. These grants will also help businesses capitalize on new opportunities, spur economic growth and job creation by supporting new and growing industries, and support development of training programs to prepare workers. EPA expects to award the funds later this year, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.
Lead by the Southeast Conference (Alaskan Southern Coastal Communities), the Accelerating Clean Energy Savings in Alaska's Coastal Communities grant will provide advisory services and incentives to replace residential oil burning systems with energy-efficient heat pumps in 50 Alaskan communities.
“Every community is feeling the impacts of climate change, from heat waves and drought conditions to increased wildfire smoke and severe winter storms. We must act collaboratively to reduce carbon emissions and to address the adverse impacts on people’s health and our economic prosperity,” said EPA Regional Administrator Casey Sixkiller. “Through the Biden Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, EPA is partnering with states and local communities to make the largest investments ever in green buildings, clean energy transportation, and climate justice, and the Pacific Northwest continues to lead the way.”
"Southeast Conference has long worked with Alaska’s distressed coastal communities to displace imported fossil fuels and utilize clean, renewable resources,” said Southeast Conference Executive Director Robert Venables. “We are grateful for this award which will make transformational changes toward our shared mission of sustainable, vibrant communities with a healthy environment.”
EPA made its selections through a rigorous grant competition, reviewing nearly 300 applications to ensure the competition was fair and impartial. Applications were submitted by entities from across the country and requested a total of nearly $33 billion in funding.
The 25 selected applications – from states, a Tribe, local governments, and coalitions of these entities – will receive federal funding to implement local and regional solutions. Many of these projects can be expanded and provide examples and blueprints that other states, local governments, Tribes, and even businesses can replicate in their work to tackle the climate crisis.
These selected projects will implement ambitious climate pollution reduction measures designed by states, Tribes and local governments that will achieve significant cumulative GHG reductions by 2030 and beyond. Together, these grants are estimated to reduce greenhouse gas pollution by as much as 148 million metric tons by 2030 and by 971 million metric tons by 2050, based on estimates provided by the selected applicants. Learn more about the selected applications.
EPA expects to announce up to an additional $300 million in selections under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program for Tribes, Tribal consortia, and territories in the coming weeks. Learn more about the CPRG program.
The grants will fund projects supporting the deployment of technologies and programs to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful pollution across the country and build the infrastructure, housing, industry, and competitive economy needed for a clean energy future. These grants will also help businesses capitalize on new opportunities, spur economic growth and job creation by supporting new and growing industries, and support development of training programs to prepare workers. EPA expects to award the funds later this year, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.