EPA issues PFAS test order as part of National Testing Strategy
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued the fourth Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) test order requiring testing on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under EPA’s National PFAS Testing Strategy, the latest action taken under EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap to confront contamination from “forever chemicals” nationwide.
This action orders the 3M Company and Wacker Chemical Corporation to conduct and submit testing on the physical-chemical properties of 2-(N-Methylperfluoro-1-octanesulfonamido)ethanol (NMeFOSE) (Chemical Abstract Service Reference Number: 24448-09-7), including testing on the health effects following inhalation of this chemical. NMeFOSE has been used widely in products, including clothing and carpet treatments as well as furniture coatings (paint and varnish). NMeFOSE has been found in the air and in biosolids, which are a byproduct of the water treatment processes often used on agricultural fields as fertilizer. Studies have also demonstrated that NMeFOSE can accumulate in indoor dust and air, as well as in outdoor environmental media.
“Communities across the country need information about whether or not PFAS are in our air and water, and any health risks caused by these chemicals,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Michal Freedhoff. “This year, we’re continuing to use test orders to gather data about the health effects of PFAS so that we can take any necessary action to protect people and the environment.”
After thoroughly examining existing hazard and exposure data, EPA has concluded that NMeFOSE may present an unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment. The potential hazards from exposure to this chemical could include damage to the nervous system and immune system, as well as cancer. The test order will help EPA better understand the potential hazards and potential exposures associated with NMeFOSE.
The information EPA receives under this order will not only improve the Agency’s understanding of human health effects of NMeFOSE, but also potential health effects of more than 100 PFAS that are structurally similar to NMeFOSE and add to the agency’s overall understanding of this category of PFAS.
The companies subject to the test order may either conduct the tests as described in the order, or provide EPA with existing information that they believe EPA did not identify in its search, but which satisfies the order requirements.
EPA encourages companies to jointly conduct testing to avoid unnecessary duplication of tests and will also consider possible combinations of tests that cover all required endpoints to diminish the amount of time, animal subjects and costs required.
The order employs a tiered testing process, as TSCA requires. The order is effective today, March 25, 2024. The results of all the first-tier testing are required to be submitted to EPA within one year of the effective date of the order and will inform the decision as to which additional tests are necessary. The order and any data submitted in response to this order will be made publicly available on EPA’s website and in the applicable docket on the Regulations.gov page, subject to confidentiality considerations under TSCA section 14.
PFAS National Testing Strategy
In the National PFAS Testing Strategy, EPA assigned PFAS into smaller categories based on similarities in structure, physical-chemical properties, and existing toxicity data. EPA is issuing test orders for PFAS in specific categories that lack toxicity data to inform EPA’s understanding of the potential effects on human health and the environment.
As EPA continues to further develop this strategy, refine its universe and categorization of PFAS, and consider stakeholder feedback, the agency also plans to increase the weight it places on the potential for exposures when identifying specific PFAS that would require testing.
Section 4 Test Orders
Developing Section 4 test orders is a complex and resource-intensive process involving many scientific and regulatory considerations, as explained in this Overview of Activities Involved in Issuing a TSCA Section 4 Order. Given the complexity of the testing requirements, a broad spectrum of experts across the agency worked to determine testing methodology and needs, as well as address other details of drafting and issuing an order, such as assessing the economic burden of an order.
Additionally, one order often applies to multiple companies. EPA must identify these companies and their associated points of contact. To improve the transparency of the process, EPA also works to resolve confidential business information claims that could prevent EPA from publicly connecting the company to the chemical substance prior to issuing test orders.
View the test order issued today and other Section 4 test orders.
Learn more about the National PFAS Testing Strategy.
This action orders the 3M Company and Wacker Chemical Corporation to conduct and submit testing on the physical-chemical properties of 2-(N-Methylperfluoro-1-octanesulfonamido)ethanol (NMeFOSE) (Chemical Abstract Service Reference Number: 24448-09-7), including testing on the health effects following inhalation of this chemical. NMeFOSE has been used widely in products, including clothing and carpet treatments as well as furniture coatings (paint and varnish). NMeFOSE has been found in the air and in biosolids, which are a byproduct of the water treatment processes often used on agricultural fields as fertilizer. Studies have also demonstrated that NMeFOSE can accumulate in indoor dust and air, as well as in outdoor environmental media.
“Communities across the country need information about whether or not PFAS are in our air and water, and any health risks caused by these chemicals,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Michal Freedhoff. “This year, we’re continuing to use test orders to gather data about the health effects of PFAS so that we can take any necessary action to protect people and the environment.”
After thoroughly examining existing hazard and exposure data, EPA has concluded that NMeFOSE may present an unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment. The potential hazards from exposure to this chemical could include damage to the nervous system and immune system, as well as cancer. The test order will help EPA better understand the potential hazards and potential exposures associated with NMeFOSE.
The information EPA receives under this order will not only improve the Agency’s understanding of human health effects of NMeFOSE, but also potential health effects of more than 100 PFAS that are structurally similar to NMeFOSE and add to the agency’s overall understanding of this category of PFAS.
The companies subject to the test order may either conduct the tests as described in the order, or provide EPA with existing information that they believe EPA did not identify in its search, but which satisfies the order requirements.
EPA encourages companies to jointly conduct testing to avoid unnecessary duplication of tests and will also consider possible combinations of tests that cover all required endpoints to diminish the amount of time, animal subjects and costs required.
The order employs a tiered testing process, as TSCA requires. The order is effective today, March 25, 2024. The results of all the first-tier testing are required to be submitted to EPA within one year of the effective date of the order and will inform the decision as to which additional tests are necessary. The order and any data submitted in response to this order will be made publicly available on EPA’s website and in the applicable docket on the Regulations.gov page, subject to confidentiality considerations under TSCA section 14.
PFAS National Testing Strategy
In the National PFAS Testing Strategy, EPA assigned PFAS into smaller categories based on similarities in structure, physical-chemical properties, and existing toxicity data. EPA is issuing test orders for PFAS in specific categories that lack toxicity data to inform EPA’s understanding of the potential effects on human health and the environment.
As EPA continues to further develop this strategy, refine its universe and categorization of PFAS, and consider stakeholder feedback, the agency also plans to increase the weight it places on the potential for exposures when identifying specific PFAS that would require testing.
Section 4 Test Orders
Developing Section 4 test orders is a complex and resource-intensive process involving many scientific and regulatory considerations, as explained in this Overview of Activities Involved in Issuing a TSCA Section 4 Order. Given the complexity of the testing requirements, a broad spectrum of experts across the agency worked to determine testing methodology and needs, as well as address other details of drafting and issuing an order, such as assessing the economic burden of an order.
Additionally, one order often applies to multiple companies. EPA must identify these companies and their associated points of contact. To improve the transparency of the process, EPA also works to resolve confidential business information claims that could prevent EPA from publicly connecting the company to the chemical substance prior to issuing test orders.
View the test order issued today and other Section 4 test orders.
Learn more about the National PFAS Testing Strategy.
Counterfeit Kansas City Chiefs, Royals, and Kansas Jayhawks Championship Rings worth $2.71M Intercepted by Cincinnati CBP
CINCINNATI– Collectors and fans clamor for championship rings of their favorite collegiate and pro sports team, with some paying top dollar for the real thing. Unfortunately, third party retailers are selling counterfeit versions of these rings for…
EPA celebrates $3 billion in WIFIA loans, investing in America’s infrastructure this World Water Day
Today, March 22, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is celebrating World Water Day and releasing its 2023 Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) annual report. The report highlights $3 billion in water infrastructure investments across the country. These investments in local communities protect public health and the environment, create good-paying jobs, and help support affordable water bills compared to alternative financing options.
“This World Water Day, EPA is celebrating historic investments we’re making in the nation’s water infrastructure to secure the health and wellbeing of millions of Americans,” said EPA Acting Assistant Administrator for Water Bruno Pigott. “Last year, we committed $3 billion through our WIFIA loan program and more through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. These federal dollars are at work in your neighborhood, making drinking water safer and wastewater systems more effective while creating thousands of good-paying jobs.”
From Philadelphia (pdf) to St. Louis and San Francisco (pdf), WIFIA loans finalized in 2023 are benefiting communities across the country by providing lo w-interest loans for critical water infrastructure projects. In 2023, EPA closed $3 billion in WIFIA loans supporting water infrastructure in 10 states and strengthening drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater systems that support 16 million people. Through these loans, communities and water systems are saving approximately $1 billion while project construction and operation are creating nearly 20,000 jobs. In addition to loan closings, the WIFIA program made significant progress building the pipeline of future loans. The WIFIA program selected over 30 water infrastructure projects for future funding.
EPA’s WIFIA loan program is one of several ways EPA is investing in the nation’s water infrastructure, this World Water Day and year-round. Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is investing $50 billion in drinking water and wastewater infrastructure. To date, EPA has invested more than $13 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds across all 50 states and territories. Explore an interactive StoryMap highlighting water infrastructure success stories.
For more information about WIFIA’s 2023 successes, view the annual report or the WIFIA Fund Facts Dashboard.
Background:
Established by the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act of 2014, the WIFIA program is a federal loan program administered by EPA. The WIFIA program aims to accelerate investment in the nation’s water infrastructure by providing long-term, low-cost supplemental credit assistance for regionally and nationally significant projects. The WIFIA program has an active pipeline of pending applications for projects that will result in billions of dollars in water infrastructure investment and thousands of jobs.
EPA made the seventh round of WIFIA financing available and is currently accepting letters of interest for WIFIA and SWIFIA loans. $6.5 billion is available through WIFIA, and $1 billion is available through SWIFIA, which is a loan program exclusively for State infrastructure financing authority borrowers. EPA is currently accepting letters of interest for WIFIA and SWIFIA loans. Learn more about submitting a letter of interest for a WIFIA loan.
In addition to WIFIA loans, there are many federal funding resources available for communities and utilities to improve vital drinking water and wastewater resources. President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is a once-in-a-generation investment in our nation’s infrastructure and competitiveness. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides a historic $50 billion investment in upgrading critical water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure.
“This World Water Day, EPA is celebrating historic investments we’re making in the nation’s water infrastructure to secure the health and wellbeing of millions of Americans,” said EPA Acting Assistant Administrator for Water Bruno Pigott. “Last year, we committed $3 billion through our WIFIA loan program and more through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. These federal dollars are at work in your neighborhood, making drinking water safer and wastewater systems more effective while creating thousands of good-paying jobs.”
From Philadelphia (pdf) to St. Louis and San Francisco (pdf), WIFIA loans finalized in 2023 are benefiting communities across the country by providing lo w-interest loans for critical water infrastructure projects. In 2023, EPA closed $3 billion in WIFIA loans supporting water infrastructure in 10 states and strengthening drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater systems that support 16 million people. Through these loans, communities and water systems are saving approximately $1 billion while project construction and operation are creating nearly 20,000 jobs. In addition to loan closings, the WIFIA program made significant progress building the pipeline of future loans. The WIFIA program selected over 30 water infrastructure projects for future funding.
EPA’s WIFIA loan program is one of several ways EPA is investing in the nation’s water infrastructure, this World Water Day and year-round. Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is investing $50 billion in drinking water and wastewater infrastructure. To date, EPA has invested more than $13 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds across all 50 states and territories. Explore an interactive StoryMap highlighting water infrastructure success stories.
For more information about WIFIA’s 2023 successes, view the annual report or the WIFIA Fund Facts Dashboard.
Background:
Established by the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act of 2014, the WIFIA program is a federal loan program administered by EPA. The WIFIA program aims to accelerate investment in the nation’s water infrastructure by providing long-term, low-cost supplemental credit assistance for regionally and nationally significant projects. The WIFIA program has an active pipeline of pending applications for projects that will result in billions of dollars in water infrastructure investment and thousands of jobs.
EPA made the seventh round of WIFIA financing available and is currently accepting letters of interest for WIFIA and SWIFIA loans. $6.5 billion is available through WIFIA, and $1 billion is available through SWIFIA, which is a loan program exclusively for State infrastructure financing authority borrowers. EPA is currently accepting letters of interest for WIFIA and SWIFIA loans. Learn more about submitting a letter of interest for a WIFIA loan.
In addition to WIFIA loans, there are many federal funding resources available for communities and utilities to improve vital drinking water and wastewater resources. President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is a once-in-a-generation investment in our nation’s infrastructure and competitiveness. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides a historic $50 billion investment in upgrading critical water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure.
EPA Region 7 Partners with Jennings, Missouri, to Redevelop West Florissant Business Corridor
LENEXA, KAN. (MARCH 22, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that 10 communities will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities Program.
EPA and these local communities will pursue development strategies that expand upon existing Brownfields efforts to advance clean air, clean water, equitable development, and other local goals.
Jennings, Missouri, a city of 13,000 in the St. Louis metropolitan area, is one of the communities selected to receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks program. During the roughly eight months of the technical assistance project, EPA staff and EPA-hired consultants will work with the community to develop a process and identify next steps for the community to achieve its goals.
“I am very excited to announce that Jennings, Missouri, will represent Region 7 as a selectee in this year’s Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities Program,” said EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister. “The Building Blocks program has been instrumental in transforming over 200 communities across our nation to improve public health, protect the environment, expand economic opportunity, and improve the overall quality of life of community members. I am looking forward to seeing the outcome of our work with Jennings!”
“Residents often share their memories of what that corridor once was – a pillar of the community, and a place where residents could get everything they needed,” said Jennings Economic Development Coordinator Anni Dineen. "This opportunity will equip us to restore the thriving aspects of the corridor in an equitable and sustainable way.”
Jennings officials, as outlined in their technical assistance application, plan to use the technical assistance project to transform the West Florissant Business Corridor into a safe, walkable, and thriving business district. The city will convene local, regional, state, and federal organizations to coordinate efforts to address commercial vacancies in Jennings and rebuild the corridor to work best for residents and business owners.
Background
EPA’s Office of Community Revitalization selected communities through a targeted outreach effort, in partnership with EPA’s Office of Brownfields and Land Revitalization and Regional offices across the U.S. This technical assistance will help communities:
· Ensure that their development decisions address environmental justice concerns in underserved and overburdened communities.
· Preserve their natural resources and community character, while allowing for economic growth.
· Create vibrant, walkable, and revitalized neighborhoods.
In 2024, EPA staff will lead projects in 10 communities, including convening federal, state, regional, and local partners, and contractor support, for two-day in-person workshops. The projects will address development-oriented and equity issues on two topics: Planning for Equitable Development and Sustainable Strategies for Small Cities and Rural Communities.
“Many communities are looking to grow in ways that create economic opportunity and enhance quality of life, while also protecting the environment,” said EPA Associate Administrator for Policy Vicki Arroyo. “Our Building Blocks program provides assistance with proven development strategies to help communities plan for a healthier, more vibrant future."
Since 2011, the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities Program has provided assistance to over 200 communities in 47 states. With this assistance, community groups, local governments, and tribal governments across the nation have increased their capacity to protect the environment, improve public health, expand economic opportunity, prepare for the effects of climate change, and improve overall quality of life.
# # #
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 and these local communities will pursue development strategies that expand upon existing Brownfields efforts to advance clean air, clean water, equitable development, and other local goals.
Jennings, Missouri, a city of 13,000 in the St. Louis metropolitan area, is one of the communities selected to receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks program. During the roughly eight months of the technical assistance project, EPA staff and EPA-hired consultants will work with the community to develop a process and identify next steps for the community to achieve its goals.
“I am very excited to announce that Jennings, Missouri, will represent Region 7 as a selectee in this year’s Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities Program,” said EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister. “The Building Blocks program has been instrumental in transforming over 200 communities across our nation to improve public health, protect the environment, expand economic opportunity, and improve the overall quality of life of community members. I am looking forward to seeing the outcome of our work with Jennings!”
“Residents often share their memories of what that corridor once was – a pillar of the community, and a place where residents could get everything they needed,” said Jennings Economic Development Coordinator Anni Dineen. "This opportunity will equip us to restore the thriving aspects of the corridor in an equitable and sustainable way.”
Jennings officials, as outlined in their technical assistance application, plan to use the technical assistance project to transform the West Florissant Business Corridor into a safe, walkable, and thriving business district. The city will convene local, regional, state, and federal organizations to coordinate efforts to address commercial vacancies in Jennings and rebuild the corridor to work best for residents and business owners.
Background
EPA’s Office of Community Revitalization selected communities through a targeted outreach effort, in partnership with EPA’s Office of Brownfields and Land Revitalization and Regional offices across the U.S. This technical assistance will help communities:
· Ensure that their development decisions address environmental justice concerns in underserved and overburdened communities.
· Preserve their natural resources and community character, while allowing for economic growth.
· Create vibrant, walkable, and revitalized neighborhoods.
In 2024, EPA staff will lead projects in 10 communities, including convening federal, state, regional, and local partners, and contractor support, for two-day in-person workshops. The projects will address development-oriented and equity issues on two topics: Planning for Equitable Development and Sustainable Strategies for Small Cities and Rural Communities.
“Many communities are looking to grow in ways that create economic opportunity and enhance quality of life, while also protecting the environment,” said EPA Associate Administrator for Policy Vicki Arroyo. “Our Building Blocks program provides assistance with proven development strategies to help communities plan for a healthier, more vibrant future."
Since 2011, the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities Program has provided assistance to over 200 communities in 47 states. With this assistance, community groups, local governments, and tribal governments across the nation have increased their capacity to protect the environment, improve public health, expand economic opportunity, prepare for the effects of climate change, and improve overall quality of life.
# # #
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 partners with Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point to foster equitable Brownfields development strategies to reach environmental goals
BOSTON (MARCH 22, 2024) – Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point in Maine , will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program. Together, EPA and the Passamaquoddy Tribe will pursue development strategies that expand upon existing Brownfields efforts and advance clean air, clean water, equitable development, and other local goals.
"Many communities are looking to grow in ways that create economic opportunity and enhance quality of life, while also protecting the environment," said EPA Associate Administrator for Policy Vicki Arroyo. "Our Building Blocks program provides assistance with proven development strategies to help communities plan for a healthier, more vibrant future."
"The Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities partnership with our Brownfields Program is key to bringing together communities to explore new development possibilities that are both enriching and focused on the unique needs of the communities we work with," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash, "Congratulations to the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point, for earning this youth-centered opportunity to promote traditional activities."
EPA's Office of Community Revitalization selected communities through a targeted outreach effort in a partnership with the Office of Brownfields and Land Revitalization and Regional offices across the United States. This technical assistance will help communities:
Ensure their development decisions address environmental justice concerns in underserved and overburdened communities.
Preserve their natural resources and community character, while allowing for economic growth.
Create vibrant, walkable, and revitalized neighborhoods.
In 2024, EPA staff will lead projects in ten communities, including convening federal, state, regional and local partners, and contractor support, for two-day in-person workshops. The projects will address development-oriented and equity issues on two topics: Planning for Equitable Development and Sustainable Strategies for Small Cities and Rural Communities. The Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point is one of the ten communities selected.
The Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point, Maine, has worked with EPA's Brownfields program to remediate a site on their land and redevelop for the development and enrichment of Tribal youth, promoting traditional activities such as hunting, fishing and camping. "I'm extremely excited for this new opportunity for the youth! I work very closely in the community, and I have four boys myself. This is going to be an amazing venture for them," said Melissa Dana, member of the Passamaquoddy Tribe. "Coming as a parent of all boys who are all adventurous and spend half their time in the woods, this is definitely going to be utilized."
Since 2011, the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program has provided assistance to over 200 communities in 47 states. With this assistance, community groups, local governments and tribal governments across the nation have increased their capacity to protect the environment, improve public health, expand economic opportunity, prepare for the effects of climate change and improve overall quality of life.
Learn more about the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.
"Many communities are looking to grow in ways that create economic opportunity and enhance quality of life, while also protecting the environment," said EPA Associate Administrator for Policy Vicki Arroyo. "Our Building Blocks program provides assistance with proven development strategies to help communities plan for a healthier, more vibrant future."
"The Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities partnership with our Brownfields Program is key to bringing together communities to explore new development possibilities that are both enriching and focused on the unique needs of the communities we work with," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash, "Congratulations to the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point, for earning this youth-centered opportunity to promote traditional activities."
EPA's Office of Community Revitalization selected communities through a targeted outreach effort in a partnership with the Office of Brownfields and Land Revitalization and Regional offices across the United States. This technical assistance will help communities:
Ensure their development decisions address environmental justice concerns in underserved and overburdened communities.
Preserve their natural resources and community character, while allowing for economic growth.
Create vibrant, walkable, and revitalized neighborhoods.
In 2024, EPA staff will lead projects in ten communities, including convening federal, state, regional and local partners, and contractor support, for two-day in-person workshops. The projects will address development-oriented and equity issues on two topics: Planning for Equitable Development and Sustainable Strategies for Small Cities and Rural Communities. The Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point is one of the ten communities selected.
The Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point, Maine, has worked with EPA's Brownfields program to remediate a site on their land and redevelop for the development and enrichment of Tribal youth, promoting traditional activities such as hunting, fishing and camping. "I'm extremely excited for this new opportunity for the youth! I work very closely in the community, and I have four boys myself. This is going to be an amazing venture for them," said Melissa Dana, member of the Passamaquoddy Tribe. "Coming as a parent of all boys who are all adventurous and spend half their time in the woods, this is definitely going to be utilized."
Since 2011, the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program has provided assistance to over 200 communities in 47 states. With this assistance, community groups, local governments and tribal governments across the nation have increased their capacity to protect the environment, improve public health, expand economic opportunity, prepare for the effects of climate change and improve overall quality of life.
Learn more about the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.
EPA Partners with Austin, Minnesota to Foster Equitable Development Strategies to Reach Environmental Goals
WASHINGTON (March 22, 2024) – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that Austin, Minnesota will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.
“Many communities are looking to grow in ways that create economic opportunity and enhance quality of life, while also protecting the environment,” said EPA Associate Administrator for Policy Vicki Arroyo. “Our Building Blocks program provides assistance with proven development strategies to help communities plan for a healthier, more vibrant future."
Austin is a city with a large immigrant and refugee community that will focus their Building Blocks project on a commercial corridor facing some challenging redevelopment issues, including several Brownfield sites. The Equitable Development tool will help the city strengthen housing, health, equity and connectivity opportunities in partnership with community organizations and stakeholders.
“We look forward to encouraging proper redevelopment while addressing health and equity concerns in partnership with the Building Blocks team,” said City Administrator Craig Clark.
EPA’s Office of Community Revitalization selected communities through a targeted outreach effort in a partnership with the Office of Brownfields and Land Revitalization and Regional offices across the United States. This technical assistance will help communities:
Ensure their development decisions address environmental justice concerns in underserved and overburdened communities.
Preserve their natural resources and community character, while allowing for economic growth.
Create vibrant, walkable and revitalized neighborhoods.
In 2024, EPA staff will lead projects in ten communities, including convening federal, state, regional and local partners, and contractor support, for two-day in-person workshops. The projects will address development-oriented and equity issues on two topics: Planning for Equitable Development and Sustainable Strategies for Small Cities and Rural Communities.
Since 2011, the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program has provided assistance to over 200 communities in 47 states. With this assistance, community groups, local governments and tribal governments across the nation have increased their capacity to protect the environment, improve public health, expand economic opportunity, prepare for the effects of climate change and improve overall quality of life.
Learn more about the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.
“Many communities are looking to grow in ways that create economic opportunity and enhance quality of life, while also protecting the environment,” said EPA Associate Administrator for Policy Vicki Arroyo. “Our Building Blocks program provides assistance with proven development strategies to help communities plan for a healthier, more vibrant future."
Austin is a city with a large immigrant and refugee community that will focus their Building Blocks project on a commercial corridor facing some challenging redevelopment issues, including several Brownfield sites. The Equitable Development tool will help the city strengthen housing, health, equity and connectivity opportunities in partnership with community organizations and stakeholders.
“We look forward to encouraging proper redevelopment while addressing health and equity concerns in partnership with the Building Blocks team,” said City Administrator Craig Clark.
EPA’s Office of Community Revitalization selected communities through a targeted outreach effort in a partnership with the Office of Brownfields and Land Revitalization and Regional offices across the United States. This technical assistance will help communities:
Ensure their development decisions address environmental justice concerns in underserved and overburdened communities.
Preserve their natural resources and community character, while allowing for economic growth.
Create vibrant, walkable and revitalized neighborhoods.
In 2024, EPA staff will lead projects in ten communities, including convening federal, state, regional and local partners, and contractor support, for two-day in-person workshops. The projects will address development-oriented and equity issues on two topics: Planning for Equitable Development and Sustainable Strategies for Small Cities and Rural Communities.
Since 2011, the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program has provided assistance to over 200 communities in 47 states. With this assistance, community groups, local governments and tribal governments across the nation have increased their capacity to protect the environment, improve public health, expand economic opportunity, prepare for the effects of climate change and improve overall quality of life.
Learn more about the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.
EPA Partners with Manitowoc, Wisconsin to Foster Equitable Development Strategies to Reach Environmental Goals
WASHINGTON (March 22, 2024) – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that Manitowoc, Wisconsin will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.
“Many communities are looking to grow in ways that create economic opportunity and enhance quality of life, while also protecting the environment,” said EPA Associate Administrator for Policy Vicki Arroyo. “Our Building Blocks program provides assistance with proven development strategies to help communities plan for a healthier, more vibrant future."
Manitowoc is a small city with a strong maritime and industrial legacy located on the shores of Lake Michigan. It will use the Building Blocks process to focus on a neighborhood near the Manitowoc River that is experiencing disinvestment due to the departure of the aluminum manufacturing industry.
“Working with the Building Blocks team will provide residents and businesses an opportunity to meaningfully engage and shape a vision for this near downtown neighborhood and identify redevelopment opportunities that will have a positive impact,” said Mayor Justin M. Nickels.
The city plans to incorporate equity from the outset as they engage residents and work towards identifying redevelopment opportunities to best address the transportation, housing and other needs of the area.
EPA’s Office of Community Revitalization selected communities through a targeted outreach effort in a partnership with the Office of Brownfields and Land Revitalization and Regional offices across the United States. This technical assistance will help communities:
Ensure their development decisions address environmental justice concerns in underserved and overburdened communities.
Preserve their natural resources and community character, while allowing for economic growth.
Create vibrant, walkable and revitalized neighborhoods.
In 2024, EPA staff will lead projects in ten communities, including convening federal, state, regional and local partners, and contractor support, for two-day in-person workshops. The projects will address development-oriented and equity issues on two topics: Planning for Equitable Development and Sustainable Strategies for Small Cities and Rural Communities.
Since 2011, the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program has provided assistance to over 200 communities in 47 states. With this assistance, community groups, local governments and tribal governments across the nation have increased their capacity to protect the environment, improve public health, expand economic opportunity, prepare for the effects of climate change and improve overall quality of life.
Learn more about the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.
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“Many communities are looking to grow in ways that create economic opportunity and enhance quality of life, while also protecting the environment,” said EPA Associate Administrator for Policy Vicki Arroyo. “Our Building Blocks program provides assistance with proven development strategies to help communities plan for a healthier, more vibrant future."
Manitowoc is a small city with a strong maritime and industrial legacy located on the shores of Lake Michigan. It will use the Building Blocks process to focus on a neighborhood near the Manitowoc River that is experiencing disinvestment due to the departure of the aluminum manufacturing industry.
“Working with the Building Blocks team will provide residents and businesses an opportunity to meaningfully engage and shape a vision for this near downtown neighborhood and identify redevelopment opportunities that will have a positive impact,” said Mayor Justin M. Nickels.
The city plans to incorporate equity from the outset as they engage residents and work towards identifying redevelopment opportunities to best address the transportation, housing and other needs of the area.
EPA’s Office of Community Revitalization selected communities through a targeted outreach effort in a partnership with the Office of Brownfields and Land Revitalization and Regional offices across the United States. This technical assistance will help communities:
Ensure their development decisions address environmental justice concerns in underserved and overburdened communities.
Preserve their natural resources and community character, while allowing for economic growth.
Create vibrant, walkable and revitalized neighborhoods.
In 2024, EPA staff will lead projects in ten communities, including convening federal, state, regional and local partners, and contractor support, for two-day in-person workshops. The projects will address development-oriented and equity issues on two topics: Planning for Equitable Development and Sustainable Strategies for Small Cities and Rural Communities.
Since 2011, the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program has provided assistance to over 200 communities in 47 states. With this assistance, community groups, local governments and tribal governments across the nation have increased their capacity to protect the environment, improve public health, expand economic opportunity, prepare for the effects of climate change and improve overall quality of life.
Learn more about the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.
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EPA Pacific Southwest Region Announces New Toxics Release Inventory, Covering Expanded Sectors and Chemicals
SAN FRANCISCO — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has released its 2022 Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) National Analysis showing that environmental releases of TRI chemicals from facilities covered by the program were 21% lower in 2022 than 2013. This includes a 26% decrease in air releases.
During 2022, facilities in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, the Pacific Islands and 148 Tribal Nations (the Pacific Southwest Region, also referred to as Region 9) managed 902.5 million pounds of production-related waste, 47% of which was managed by preferred methods such as treatment, energy recovery and recycling. In 2022, 9% of facilities in Region 9 implemented new pollution prevention activities – higher than the nationwide average of 8% – with process and equipment modifications being the most common improvements.
Region 9 releases totaled 477.8 million pounds in 2022, which is a 14% decrease compared to 2021. This significant change in releases is mostly related to a decrease in metal mining sector releases, which account for 79% of the Region 9 TRI-reported releases in 2022. From 2013 to 2022, air emissions decreased by 18% in Region 9.
“The overall reduction in toxic releases in our country’s Pacific Southwest is something regulators, industry and communities in our region can be proud of,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “The expansion in sectors required to report for this year's inventory – as well as the increase in which chemicals had to be reported -- are a direct response to what we heard from our communities, especially those with environmental justice challenges.”
National TRI Data
During the 2013-2022 ten-year period, releases from manufacturing facilities nationwide decreased by 9% while the value added to the U.S. economy from manufacturing increased by 14%. While overall releases increased by 1% from 2021 to 2022, there was a 6.5% increase in the number of pollution prevention activities reported under the TRI program compared to 2021.
The 2022 TRI National Analysis summarizes environmental releases of TRI chemicals, as well as how facilities managed their waste. In 2022, facilities reported managing 88.5% of their TRI chemical waste through preferred practices such as recycling, energy recovery and treatment, while releasing 11.5% of their TRI chemical waste into the environment.
EPA, states and Tribes receive TRI data from facilities in sectors such as manufacturing, mining, hazardous waste management and electric utilities. Nationally, more than 21,000 facilities submitted reports on 522 of the 827 chemicals and chemical categories for which TRI reporting is required. The remaining 305 chemicals either were not manufactured, processed or used by facilities required to report to TRI or were not manufactured, processed or used in amounts large enough to trigger reporting.
The 2022 TRI National Analysis features visualizations and analytical tools to make data more useful and accessible to communities. Readers can view data by state, Tribe, metropolitan area, EPA region and watershed using the “Where You Live” mapping tool.
EPA is holding a public webinar on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at 2 p.m. ET to provide an overview of the 2022 TRI National Analysis. Register for the webinar.
PFAS Reporting
The TRI National Analysis includes reporting on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) as required by the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). A provision of the NDAA outlines criteria for additional PFAS to be automatically added for TRI reporting. For reporting year 2022, four PFAS met the criteria and were added to the reporting requirements for a total of 180 PFAS tracked by the TRI program. During 2022, 50 facilities managed 1.2 million pounds of these chemicals as waste, which represents an 8% decrease compared to 2021.
Pollution Prevention
Facilities implemented 3,589 total pollution prevention activities in 2022 with the most common being process and equipment modifications, followed by changes to operating practices and training. Through both existing programs and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA offers grant opportunities to state and Tribal technical assistance providers to help prevent pollution.
Key Expansions to TRI Reporting
Important expansions to TRI reporting went into effect for reporting year 2022. Some contract sterilization facilities, which are contracted to sterilize products or equipment for hospitals and other facilities, were required to report to TRI for the first time on their management of ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol as waste. These facilities managed 6.3 million pounds of ethylene oxide waste, nearly all of which was treated.
Reporting year 2022 was also the first year of expanded reporting for the natural gas processing sector. The 305 facilities in this sector that reported to TRI managed 115 million pounds of TRI chemicals in waste and disposed of 81% of TRI chemicals in underground injection wells.
View the 2022 TRI National Analysis, including local data.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook and X.
During 2022, facilities in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, the Pacific Islands and 148 Tribal Nations (the Pacific Southwest Region, also referred to as Region 9) managed 902.5 million pounds of production-related waste, 47% of which was managed by preferred methods such as treatment, energy recovery and recycling. In 2022, 9% of facilities in Region 9 implemented new pollution prevention activities – higher than the nationwide average of 8% – with process and equipment modifications being the most common improvements.
Region 9 releases totaled 477.8 million pounds in 2022, which is a 14% decrease compared to 2021. This significant change in releases is mostly related to a decrease in metal mining sector releases, which account for 79% of the Region 9 TRI-reported releases in 2022. From 2013 to 2022, air emissions decreased by 18% in Region 9.
“The overall reduction in toxic releases in our country’s Pacific Southwest is something regulators, industry and communities in our region can be proud of,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “The expansion in sectors required to report for this year's inventory – as well as the increase in which chemicals had to be reported -- are a direct response to what we heard from our communities, especially those with environmental justice challenges.”
National TRI Data
During the 2013-2022 ten-year period, releases from manufacturing facilities nationwide decreased by 9% while the value added to the U.S. economy from manufacturing increased by 14%. While overall releases increased by 1% from 2021 to 2022, there was a 6.5% increase in the number of pollution prevention activities reported under the TRI program compared to 2021.
The 2022 TRI National Analysis summarizes environmental releases of TRI chemicals, as well as how facilities managed their waste. In 2022, facilities reported managing 88.5% of their TRI chemical waste through preferred practices such as recycling, energy recovery and treatment, while releasing 11.5% of their TRI chemical waste into the environment.
EPA, states and Tribes receive TRI data from facilities in sectors such as manufacturing, mining, hazardous waste management and electric utilities. Nationally, more than 21,000 facilities submitted reports on 522 of the 827 chemicals and chemical categories for which TRI reporting is required. The remaining 305 chemicals either were not manufactured, processed or used by facilities required to report to TRI or were not manufactured, processed or used in amounts large enough to trigger reporting.
The 2022 TRI National Analysis features visualizations and analytical tools to make data more useful and accessible to communities. Readers can view data by state, Tribe, metropolitan area, EPA region and watershed using the “Where You Live” mapping tool.
EPA is holding a public webinar on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at 2 p.m. ET to provide an overview of the 2022 TRI National Analysis. Register for the webinar.
PFAS Reporting
The TRI National Analysis includes reporting on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) as required by the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). A provision of the NDAA outlines criteria for additional PFAS to be automatically added for TRI reporting. For reporting year 2022, four PFAS met the criteria and were added to the reporting requirements for a total of 180 PFAS tracked by the TRI program. During 2022, 50 facilities managed 1.2 million pounds of these chemicals as waste, which represents an 8% decrease compared to 2021.
Pollution Prevention
Facilities implemented 3,589 total pollution prevention activities in 2022 with the most common being process and equipment modifications, followed by changes to operating practices and training. Through both existing programs and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA offers grant opportunities to state and Tribal technical assistance providers to help prevent pollution.
Key Expansions to TRI Reporting
Important expansions to TRI reporting went into effect for reporting year 2022. Some contract sterilization facilities, which are contracted to sterilize products or equipment for hospitals and other facilities, were required to report to TRI for the first time on their management of ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol as waste. These facilities managed 6.3 million pounds of ethylene oxide waste, nearly all of which was treated.
Reporting year 2022 was also the first year of expanded reporting for the natural gas processing sector. The 305 facilities in this sector that reported to TRI managed 115 million pounds of TRI chemicals in waste and disposed of 81% of TRI chemicals in underground injection wells.
View the 2022 TRI National Analysis, including local data.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook and X.