Hill Brothers to Pay Penalty, Improve Safety to Resolve Claims of Clean Air Act Violations at California and Arizona Facilities
SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced a settlement with Hill Brothers Chemical Company to resolve claims of violations of the Clean Air Act’s chemical accident prevention provisions at facilities in the City of Industry, California and in Phoenix, Arizona. Under the settlement, Hill Brothers will pay a civil penalty of $205,000. The chemical accident provisions of the Clean Air Act are designed to ensure the safe manufacture, use, storage, and handling of flammable and toxic substances.
“Reducing risks from accidental releases of toxic substances is a top priority for EPA,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “This settlement demonstrates that EPA will be vigilant in holding accountable companies that fail to comply with environmental laws, thereby putting our communities in harm’s way.”
The two facilities in question manage a range of chemical substances. The City of Industry facility receives and repackages anhydrous ammonia and manufactures aqueous ammonia, and also receives chlorine and other chemicals. The Phoenix facility receives and repackages chlorine and receives and distributes sulfur dioxide and anhydrous ammonia. The Phoenix facility also manufactures sodium hypochlorite (bleach) from chlorine and caustic.
During a 2016 EPA inspection of the Phoenix facility and a 2017 EPA inspection of the City of Industry facility and subsequent investigation, EPA found that Hill Brothers did not have adequate information to show that its pressure safety devices were discharging to a safe location or were adequately sized according to industry standards. EPA also determined that Hill Brothers needed to conduct additional preventative maintenance inspections and tests on its equipment, had missing operating procedures, did not check the safety performance history of its contractors before selection, had inconsistencies in employee training, and needed to implement the recommendations from its analysis of its chemical processes and incident investigations. Hill Brothers addressed these concerns pursuant to an EPA order issued on consent in March 2021 and is currently in compliance.
EPA’s Clean Air Act Risk Management Program (RMP) regulations work to prevent accidental chemical releases in our communities and the environment. Facilities holding more than a threshold quantity of a regulated toxic substance, such as the anhydrous ammonia or chlorine present at Hill Brothers, are required to comply with EPA’s RMP regulations. Anhydrous ammonia can cause serious, often irreversible health effects when released. In addition to potential impacts from inhalation or skin contact with this substance, it is highly flammable. Chlorine is a greenish-yellow gas with a pungent, irritating odor. Exposure to chlorine can result in nose, throat, and eye irritation, damage to the lungs, or death. The RMP regulations require owners or operators to develop and implement a risk management program to manage regulated toxic substances safely.
Learn about the National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative on reducing risks of accidental releases at industrial and chemical facilities.
For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations, visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on X.
“Reducing risks from accidental releases of toxic substances is a top priority for EPA,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “This settlement demonstrates that EPA will be vigilant in holding accountable companies that fail to comply with environmental laws, thereby putting our communities in harm’s way.”
The two facilities in question manage a range of chemical substances. The City of Industry facility receives and repackages anhydrous ammonia and manufactures aqueous ammonia, and also receives chlorine and other chemicals. The Phoenix facility receives and repackages chlorine and receives and distributes sulfur dioxide and anhydrous ammonia. The Phoenix facility also manufactures sodium hypochlorite (bleach) from chlorine and caustic.
During a 2016 EPA inspection of the Phoenix facility and a 2017 EPA inspection of the City of Industry facility and subsequent investigation, EPA found that Hill Brothers did not have adequate information to show that its pressure safety devices were discharging to a safe location or were adequately sized according to industry standards. EPA also determined that Hill Brothers needed to conduct additional preventative maintenance inspections and tests on its equipment, had missing operating procedures, did not check the safety performance history of its contractors before selection, had inconsistencies in employee training, and needed to implement the recommendations from its analysis of its chemical processes and incident investigations. Hill Brothers addressed these concerns pursuant to an EPA order issued on consent in March 2021 and is currently in compliance.
EPA’s Clean Air Act Risk Management Program (RMP) regulations work to prevent accidental chemical releases in our communities and the environment. Facilities holding more than a threshold quantity of a regulated toxic substance, such as the anhydrous ammonia or chlorine present at Hill Brothers, are required to comply with EPA’s RMP regulations. Anhydrous ammonia can cause serious, often irreversible health effects when released. In addition to potential impacts from inhalation or skin contact with this substance, it is highly flammable. Chlorine is a greenish-yellow gas with a pungent, irritating odor. Exposure to chlorine can result in nose, throat, and eye irritation, damage to the lungs, or death. The RMP regulations require owners or operators to develop and implement a risk management program to manage regulated toxic substances safely.
Learn about the National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative on reducing risks of accidental releases at industrial and chemical facilities.
For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations, visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on X.
Indianapolis CBP Intercept 362 Counterfeit Watches
INDIANAPOLIS— Last night, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Indianapolis seized two shipments containing 362 counterfeit designer watches. The items were deemed to be counterfeit by CBP’s Centers of Excellence and Expertise, the…
Biden-Harris Administration Advances Latest Actions to Address Climate-Damaging HFC Emissions and Boost American Leadership on Safer, More Efficient Technologies
WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the latest actions to phase down climate-damaging hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the bipartisan American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, building on the Biden-Harris Administration’s progress in accomplishing an initial 10% reduction and helping achieve an 85% reduction by 2036. The first new action is a final rule to accelerate the ongoing transition to more efficient and climate-safe technologies in new refrigeration, heating and cooling systems and other products by restricting the use of HFCs where alternatives are already available. The second action is a proposed rule to better manage and reuse existing HFCs, including by reducing wasteful leaks from equipment and supporting a growing American industry for HFC recycling and reclamation. These actions come one year after President Biden signed the U.S. ratification of the Kigali Amendment, an international agreement to phase down super-polluting HFCs and help avoid up to 0.5 °C of global warming by 2100.
Under the AIM Act, the Biden-Harris Administration is phasing down HFCs to achieve a 40% reduction of HFCs starting in 2024 and an 85% reduction by 2036. Today’s actions will support the national phasedown, including through an additional $4.5 billion in estimated savings for industry and consumers, while supporting good-paying American manufacturing jobs to produce the next generation of equipment and HFC alternatives.
“Today’s actions embody President Biden’s leadership on the climate crisis by tackling these planet warming chemicals while investing in American technology and innovation,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “This final rule supports our transition away from HFCs and positions our nation to be competitive on the global stage, while the proposed emissions reduction and reclamation program will help ensure we achieve our national HFC phasedown.”“President Biden delivered bipartisan ratification of the first environmental treaty in decades, positioning the United States to lead on innovating and manufacturing alternatives to super-polluting HFCs,” said White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi. “Now, we are building on that progress with ambitious new action from EPA and continued collaboration across federal agencies to combat climate-damaging HFCs while creating good-paying jobs and boosting American competitiveness.”“Today’s announcement represents another important step forward in curtailing the use of super-polluting refrigerants known as HFCs,” said Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “We know that HFCs are thousands of times more potent than carbon dioxide at trapping heat in our atmosphere. Fortunately, thanks to the Kigali Amendment and the bipartisan AIM Act, which I proudly co-authored, the Biden Administration is phasing down HFCs in a way that advances our climate goals and supports American manufacturers — turning adversity into opportunity."
The final Technology Transitions rule will help guide the overall phasedown by accelerating the transition away from HFCs in areas where substitutes are already available or being introduced—a key prong of the bipartisan AIM Act. This final rule addresses petitions from companies, industry associations, environmental groups, and state governments that were granted in October 2021 and September 2022 and restricts the use of certain HFCs in over 40 types of foams, aerosol products, and refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump equipment. The rule bans HFCs in certain equipment and sets a limit on the global warming potentials (GWPs) of the HFCs that can be used in each subsector, with compliance dates ranging from 2025 to 2028. This rule applies to both imported and domestically manufactured products, which will help ensure a level playing field for American businesses that are already transitioning to HFC alternatives.
The proposed program to manage emissions reduction and reclamation of HFCs and their substitutes would help minimize HFC leaks across the lifespan of existing equipment, such as air conditioners and refrigeration systems, while also maximizing the reuse of existing HFCs—supporting a growing American industry for recovering HFCs from existing equipment and reclaiming them to be used again, all while reducing lifecycle emissions. The proposed rule includes requirements for repairing leaky equipment, use of automatic leak detection systems on large refrigeration systems, use of reclaimed HFCs for certain applications, recovery of HFCs from cylinders before their disposal, and a container tracking system.
EPA estimates that the Technology Transitions rule would provide additional cumulative greenhouse gas emissions reductions of at least 83 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MMTCO2e) from 2025 – 2050, a benefit of at least $3 billion. In addition to climate benefits, this final rule is estimated to provide $4.5 billion in savings for industry and consumers through 2050, largely from improved energy efficiency and lower cost refrigerants. The proposed rule on an HFC emissions reduction and reclamation program is estimated to prevent at least an additional 142 MMTCO2e of HFC emissions over the same time, an incremental net benefit of at least $6.1 billion. Both actions will help unlock additional climate benefits and savings in addition to the national phasedown program, which is estimated to provide approximately $270 billion in benefits.
“The Technology Transitions provisions of the AIM Act are critical to ensuring an orderly transition from higher GWP refrigerants to lower GWP refrigerants while creating American jobs and protecting the environment,” said Stephen Yurek, President and CEO of the Air-Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Institute. “AHRI has appreciated the opportunity to participate in this rulemaking and looks forward to continuing to work constructively with the EPA to assist American manufacturers in developing and deploying economical, efficient, and affordable new refrigerant technologies."
“Alliance members commend the timely release of the technology transitions rule to implement the AIM Act, and the proposed rule on HFC Refrigerant Management,” said Kevin Fay, Executive Director of the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy. “These actions are the two important remaining policy legs of the AIM Act phasedown of HFC compounds. U.S. industry has invested several billion dollars in development and introduction of low-GWP compounds and technologies, and the Biden Administration’s timely action reflects the value attributed to this investment and these important implementing actions.”
“We welcome EPA’s continued action to phase down HFCs, speed the transition to cost-effective alternatives, and ensure these harmful pollutants are reclaimed and recovered,” said Casey Katims, Executive Director of the U.S. Climate Alliance. “These rules build on the strong foundation Alliance states established and we look forward to working with EPA to continue to maximize the benefits for consumers and communities.”Delivering Progress on the National HFC Phasedown
Last week, EPA also issued HFC allowances, which allow companies to produce or import bulk HFCs for calendar year 2024. In 2024, the overall number of allowances will be significantly lower than in 2023, as Congress has directed a reduction to 60% of the historic baseline levels of HFCs, down from 90% available this year. Allowances are issued consistent with the methodology laid out in the final rule “Allowance Allocation Methodology for 2024 and Later Years” that EPA published in July.
In August, the Interagency Task Force on Illegal HFC Trade, co-led by EPA and the Department of Homeland Security and comprised of the Departments of Defense, Justice, and State, held their semi-annual meeting along with the White House and participants from the Environmental Investigation Agency. The Task Force reported that since the allowance program went into effect on January 1, 2022, they have prevented over 1.1 MMTCO2e of illegal HFC shipments—equivalent to the greenhouse gas emissions from nearly 250,000 gasoline-powered cars in a year. The Task Force is working diligently to continue to improve real-time monitoring of our borders to prevent illegal HFC trade, especially leading up to the 2024 reduction in HFC imports. EPA also continues to issue administrative consequences, retiring or revoking allowances from companies that misreport or import HFCs without expending the proper number of allowances. Retired allowances are no longer available to be used, providing additional climate benefits.
EPA will accept comments on the proposed rulemaking, “Management of Certain Hydrofluorocarbons and Substitutes under Subsection (h) of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020,” for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register and hold a public hearing.Read more information on HFC actions and comment on the proposed rule.
Under the AIM Act, the Biden-Harris Administration is phasing down HFCs to achieve a 40% reduction of HFCs starting in 2024 and an 85% reduction by 2036. Today’s actions will support the national phasedown, including through an additional $4.5 billion in estimated savings for industry and consumers, while supporting good-paying American manufacturing jobs to produce the next generation of equipment and HFC alternatives.
“Today’s actions embody President Biden’s leadership on the climate crisis by tackling these planet warming chemicals while investing in American technology and innovation,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “This final rule supports our transition away from HFCs and positions our nation to be competitive on the global stage, while the proposed emissions reduction and reclamation program will help ensure we achieve our national HFC phasedown.”“President Biden delivered bipartisan ratification of the first environmental treaty in decades, positioning the United States to lead on innovating and manufacturing alternatives to super-polluting HFCs,” said White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi. “Now, we are building on that progress with ambitious new action from EPA and continued collaboration across federal agencies to combat climate-damaging HFCs while creating good-paying jobs and boosting American competitiveness.”“Today’s announcement represents another important step forward in curtailing the use of super-polluting refrigerants known as HFCs,” said Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “We know that HFCs are thousands of times more potent than carbon dioxide at trapping heat in our atmosphere. Fortunately, thanks to the Kigali Amendment and the bipartisan AIM Act, which I proudly co-authored, the Biden Administration is phasing down HFCs in a way that advances our climate goals and supports American manufacturers — turning adversity into opportunity."
The final Technology Transitions rule will help guide the overall phasedown by accelerating the transition away from HFCs in areas where substitutes are already available or being introduced—a key prong of the bipartisan AIM Act. This final rule addresses petitions from companies, industry associations, environmental groups, and state governments that were granted in October 2021 and September 2022 and restricts the use of certain HFCs in over 40 types of foams, aerosol products, and refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump equipment. The rule bans HFCs in certain equipment and sets a limit on the global warming potentials (GWPs) of the HFCs that can be used in each subsector, with compliance dates ranging from 2025 to 2028. This rule applies to both imported and domestically manufactured products, which will help ensure a level playing field for American businesses that are already transitioning to HFC alternatives.
The proposed program to manage emissions reduction and reclamation of HFCs and their substitutes would help minimize HFC leaks across the lifespan of existing equipment, such as air conditioners and refrigeration systems, while also maximizing the reuse of existing HFCs—supporting a growing American industry for recovering HFCs from existing equipment and reclaiming them to be used again, all while reducing lifecycle emissions. The proposed rule includes requirements for repairing leaky equipment, use of automatic leak detection systems on large refrigeration systems, use of reclaimed HFCs for certain applications, recovery of HFCs from cylinders before their disposal, and a container tracking system.
EPA estimates that the Technology Transitions rule would provide additional cumulative greenhouse gas emissions reductions of at least 83 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MMTCO2e) from 2025 – 2050, a benefit of at least $3 billion. In addition to climate benefits, this final rule is estimated to provide $4.5 billion in savings for industry and consumers through 2050, largely from improved energy efficiency and lower cost refrigerants. The proposed rule on an HFC emissions reduction and reclamation program is estimated to prevent at least an additional 142 MMTCO2e of HFC emissions over the same time, an incremental net benefit of at least $6.1 billion. Both actions will help unlock additional climate benefits and savings in addition to the national phasedown program, which is estimated to provide approximately $270 billion in benefits.
“The Technology Transitions provisions of the AIM Act are critical to ensuring an orderly transition from higher GWP refrigerants to lower GWP refrigerants while creating American jobs and protecting the environment,” said Stephen Yurek, President and CEO of the Air-Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Institute. “AHRI has appreciated the opportunity to participate in this rulemaking and looks forward to continuing to work constructively with the EPA to assist American manufacturers in developing and deploying economical, efficient, and affordable new refrigerant technologies."
“Alliance members commend the timely release of the technology transitions rule to implement the AIM Act, and the proposed rule on HFC Refrigerant Management,” said Kevin Fay, Executive Director of the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy. “These actions are the two important remaining policy legs of the AIM Act phasedown of HFC compounds. U.S. industry has invested several billion dollars in development and introduction of low-GWP compounds and technologies, and the Biden Administration’s timely action reflects the value attributed to this investment and these important implementing actions.”
“We welcome EPA’s continued action to phase down HFCs, speed the transition to cost-effective alternatives, and ensure these harmful pollutants are reclaimed and recovered,” said Casey Katims, Executive Director of the U.S. Climate Alliance. “These rules build on the strong foundation Alliance states established and we look forward to working with EPA to continue to maximize the benefits for consumers and communities.”Delivering Progress on the National HFC Phasedown
Last week, EPA also issued HFC allowances, which allow companies to produce or import bulk HFCs for calendar year 2024. In 2024, the overall number of allowances will be significantly lower than in 2023, as Congress has directed a reduction to 60% of the historic baseline levels of HFCs, down from 90% available this year. Allowances are issued consistent with the methodology laid out in the final rule “Allowance Allocation Methodology for 2024 and Later Years” that EPA published in July.
In August, the Interagency Task Force on Illegal HFC Trade, co-led by EPA and the Department of Homeland Security and comprised of the Departments of Defense, Justice, and State, held their semi-annual meeting along with the White House and participants from the Environmental Investigation Agency. The Task Force reported that since the allowance program went into effect on January 1, 2022, they have prevented over 1.1 MMTCO2e of illegal HFC shipments—equivalent to the greenhouse gas emissions from nearly 250,000 gasoline-powered cars in a year. The Task Force is working diligently to continue to improve real-time monitoring of our borders to prevent illegal HFC trade, especially leading up to the 2024 reduction in HFC imports. EPA also continues to issue administrative consequences, retiring or revoking allowances from companies that misreport or import HFCs without expending the proper number of allowances. Retired allowances are no longer available to be used, providing additional climate benefits.
EPA will accept comments on the proposed rulemaking, “Management of Certain Hydrofluorocarbons and Substitutes under Subsection (h) of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020,” for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register and hold a public hearing.Read more information on HFC actions and comment on the proposed rule.
EPA awards $4.6 million for coastal communities in Rhode Island
BOSTON (Oct. 6, 2023) – Rhode Island communities will get $4.6 million in new funding from the US Environmental Protection Agency to help protect the area's coastal waters and watersheds. Communities throughout the state will also get added technical assistance and partnerships with local organizations working for clean water and healthy coastal ecosystems in Southeast New England.
More than $2 million of this new funding is provided to the Southeast New England Program (SNEP) under two separate SNEP funding sources: President Biden's November 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) which is providing funds for projects across the country to improve climate resiliency and address infrastructure upgrades; and through annual Congressional appropriations to SNEP.
"Rhode Island's senior elected officials continue to do a fantastic job crafting great solutions for the challenges facing our coastal waters – and this funding is a result of their hard work and creativity," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "These projects announced today will advance EPA's and the Ocean State's commitment to investing in underserved communities. With this funding, we are quickly developing a strong network of partners working to restore southeastern New England's coast and support our coastal communities."
"I helped create the Southeast New England Program to strengthen our ecosystems and deliver cleaner water to Rhode Islanders. The worsening effects of climate change require strong investments in our coastal communities, and I'm proud to celebrate this $4.6 million to continue the tremendous work of local partners who are improving resiliency and bolstering infrastructure to protect our communities for years to come," said U.S. Senator Jack Reed.
"This federal funding will help protect and restore coastal environments across the Ocean State from climate-related threats," said U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. "I want to thank Senator Reed for his continued efforts to ensure the success of the Southeast New England Program for Coastal Watershed Restoration."
"Clean water is vital for the health of Rhode Island's communities and the coastal ecosystems we depend on," U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner. "I'm proud to announce $4.6 million in federal funding is coming to our state to ensure clean water by upgrading water infrastructure, supporting habitat restoration projects, and reducing pollutants entering waterways."
The projects announced today are funded by the new infrastructure law and given as part of the watershed grants in EPA's Southeast New England Program. EPA is also announcing funding to the U.S. Geological Survey via an interagency agreement and an award to the Narragansett Bay Estuary Program. Finally, it announced direct technical assistance provided to two towns in Rhode Island.
The projects being funded by Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Grants are:
Glocester, R.I. - $465,000 – This grant and a $100,000 match will pay for the town to develop a decentralized wastewater management entity and create financial incentives for septic wastewater upgrades in Chepachet Village. This will be paired with installation of innovative, alternative (I/A) nitrogen reducing septic systems.
North Kingstown, R.I. - $450,000 -- This grant with a $18,221 match will allow the town of North Kingstown to identify up to 30 inadequate septic systems in critical nitrogen sensitive coastal areas and provide financial incentives to homeowners to upgrade to systems that reduce nitrogen.
Bristol County Water Authority , $600,000 – This grant and a $1,410,000 match will enable the authority to work in Warren, R.I. to remove the upper and lower Kickamuit River dams. This will restore natural flow, improve the habitat, and help with fish migration. EPA's watershed grants program provided earlier funding to prepare for this removal.
Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council, $507,025 – This grant with a $326,080 match will enable the Council work in Providence to design, permit and build nature-based stormwater control measures along the Woonasquatucket River Greenway. The council's resident leader groups, the Campeones and River Rangers, will work alongside design consultants during project implementation
U.S Geological Survey, $325,000 – This interagency agreement will help develop models that will help improve septic systems estimate the susceptibility of waterbodies statewide to the impacts of nitrogen.
This year, EPA has also announced an interagency agreement with the U.S Geological Survey, funded with $325,000 from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to develop models that will help improve septic systems. The "Susceptibility of Aquifers, Streams, Ponds, and Coastal Waters to Water-Quality Impairments from Septic-System Wastewater Disposal in Rhode Island" will:
(1) determine septic-system density, and characteristics of statewide drainage areas, (2) rank the magnitude of nitrogen coming in from wastewater and other sources in the drainage areas, (3) sample water quality to find the relationship between septic density and nutrient concentrations, and (4) estimate how susceptible waterbodies statewide are to the impacts of nitrogen.
Projects Funded under SNEP Annual Appropriations
SNEP Watershed Implementation Grants Projects
For EPA watershed grants, EPA partners with Restore America's Estuaries, which manages the competitive grant process. This year, $1,707,728 is going to five projects focusing on building partnerships that tackle the region's most pressing environmental issues in areas such as nutrient pollution and coastal habitat loss.
City of Woonsocket ($500,000): "Truman Drive Green Infrastructure Parkway Construction"
Audubon Society of Rhode Island ($197,348): "Stormwater Master Plan, Education and Outreach Planning in Roger Williams Park Zoo" in Providence
Town of Warren, R.I. ($400,000): "Jamiel's Park Shoreline Restoration Project"
City of Providence. ($481,080): "Waterfront Access & Green Infrastructure at Public Street for the S. Providence Green Justice Zone"
Rhode Island Chapter of Trout Unlimited ($129,300): "Removal of the Sweet Pond Dam to Restore Aquatic Organism Passage and Enhance Water Quality" in West Greenwich, R.I.
The RI Department of Environmental Management received $299,293 with a $45,344 match, under a competitive research grant. Under the grant, DEM will complete a project aimed at better understanding when eelgrass seeds mature and how dense the seeds are. The goal is to create a model of eelgrass reproduction, especially under the stresses of climate change. Healthy eelgrass beds in coastal water hold carbon and provide habitat for aquatic life.
EPA is also providing $250,000 to the Narragansett Bay Estuary Program to support implementation of its Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, which helps protect coastal waters and build climate resilience.
Technical Assistance
Under the Network Technical Assistance Project of the Southeast New England Program, Coventry and Hopkinton will receive technical assistance through a project managed by the New England Environmental Finance Center at the University of Southern Maine.
Town of Coventry, R.I. –Coventry will receive technical assistance to help it develop long -range stormwater management planning around Upper Dam Pond. Elizabeth Scott Consulting, part of the network, will partner with the town on this project.
Town of Hopkinton, R.I. –Hopkinton will receive technical assistance to help it design and put in place stormwater management practices to address flooding and erosion at the intersection of Maxson Hill Road and Route 3. The Audubon Society of Rhode Island and Save the Bay, both network members, will partner with the town on this project.
What They Are Saying:
"Every neighborhood in Providence deserves access to clean, safe, greenspaces," said Mayor Brett P. Smiley. "The Public Street Waterfront Access Project prioritizes the health and quality-of-life of our frontline communities while also building the necessary green infrastructure to reduce pollution, manage stormwater and make our city more resilient. I am thankful to the community members and advocates that drove this process and our state and federal partners for their support in securing this funding and helping to make Providence a national leader in addressing the climate crisis."
"Clean water and healthy coastal ecosystems are essential to Rhode Island's environment, economy, and quality of life," said Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Director Terry Gray. "Since their establishment in 2012, SNEP Watershed Grants have provided millions in funding to help to conserve and restore Southeastern New England's coastal waters, watersheds, and communities. DEM is proud to partner with the SNEP Network's regional efforts to address these ecological needs and is grateful for this grant funding which will support a project that will help restore coastal habitats and improve the Ocean State's climate resiliency."
"SNEP empowers communities by providing a regional framework of funding, coordination and technical assistance, that local organizations use to create local solutions," said Tom Ardito, Director of SNEP Watershed Implementation Grants (SWIG). "Restore America's Estuaries is pleased that, again this year, more than three-quarters of our $3.2 million in grants will benefit environmental justice communities such as Providence."
"Over the past four years, the SNEP Network has worked with over 70 Southeast New England municipalities, tribes and organizations on projects and helped eight communities secure over $2M to advance their climate resilient projects," said Martha Sheils, Executive Director of New England Environmental Finance Center. "In this fifth year, we are excited to continue our capacity building efforts by offering our popular Stormwater Planning Series to four communities, two of which are in Rhode Island."
"The People's Port Authority and The Racial and Environmental Justice Committee champions the power of community engagement, fueled by the spirit of environmental justice. As we extend our heartfelt thanks for the $4.6 million in funding from the US Environmental Protection Agency," said The Peoples Port Authority Executive Director Monica Huertas. "While South Side and Washington Park have been the most affected by polluting industries, we recognize this as a shared victory for all Rhode Island communities. When one community is changed for the better, we all win. This generous support not only safeguards our coastal waters and watersheds but also strengthens partnerships with local organizations dedicated to the cause of clean water and thriving coastal ecosystems in Southeast New England. We know we have more work ahead and millions more in funding to secure if we want to achieve racial and environmental equity, However, we are confident that with continued community engagement and support, we will achieve the equity South Side and Washington Park deserve. We stand committed in our mission to combat environmental injustice and create a brighter, healthier future for all residents of Providence."
Background
In 2012, Congress charged EPA with conserving and restoring southeast New England's coastal environment, and in 2014 began providing funding to develop a Southeast New England Program. As EPA's pass-through organization, Restore America's Estuaries is now working with EPA to manage the watershed grants program, funding local organizations that are restoring clean water and healthy coastal ecosystems. The New England Environmental Finance Center serves as the pass-through organization for the related watershed network, which offers free technical assistance to communities throughout the southeast New England region.
For more about EPA's Southeast New England Program, SNEP Watershed Grants, and the SNEP Network see: https://www.epa.gov/snep and www.snepgrants.org and www.snepnetwork.org.
More than $2 million of this new funding is provided to the Southeast New England Program (SNEP) under two separate SNEP funding sources: President Biden's November 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) which is providing funds for projects across the country to improve climate resiliency and address infrastructure upgrades; and through annual Congressional appropriations to SNEP.
"Rhode Island's senior elected officials continue to do a fantastic job crafting great solutions for the challenges facing our coastal waters – and this funding is a result of their hard work and creativity," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "These projects announced today will advance EPA's and the Ocean State's commitment to investing in underserved communities. With this funding, we are quickly developing a strong network of partners working to restore southeastern New England's coast and support our coastal communities."
"I helped create the Southeast New England Program to strengthen our ecosystems and deliver cleaner water to Rhode Islanders. The worsening effects of climate change require strong investments in our coastal communities, and I'm proud to celebrate this $4.6 million to continue the tremendous work of local partners who are improving resiliency and bolstering infrastructure to protect our communities for years to come," said U.S. Senator Jack Reed.
"This federal funding will help protect and restore coastal environments across the Ocean State from climate-related threats," said U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. "I want to thank Senator Reed for his continued efforts to ensure the success of the Southeast New England Program for Coastal Watershed Restoration."
"Clean water is vital for the health of Rhode Island's communities and the coastal ecosystems we depend on," U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner. "I'm proud to announce $4.6 million in federal funding is coming to our state to ensure clean water by upgrading water infrastructure, supporting habitat restoration projects, and reducing pollutants entering waterways."
The projects announced today are funded by the new infrastructure law and given as part of the watershed grants in EPA's Southeast New England Program. EPA is also announcing funding to the U.S. Geological Survey via an interagency agreement and an award to the Narragansett Bay Estuary Program. Finally, it announced direct technical assistance provided to two towns in Rhode Island.
The projects being funded by Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Grants are:
Glocester, R.I. - $465,000 – This grant and a $100,000 match will pay for the town to develop a decentralized wastewater management entity and create financial incentives for septic wastewater upgrades in Chepachet Village. This will be paired with installation of innovative, alternative (I/A) nitrogen reducing septic systems.
North Kingstown, R.I. - $450,000 -- This grant with a $18,221 match will allow the town of North Kingstown to identify up to 30 inadequate septic systems in critical nitrogen sensitive coastal areas and provide financial incentives to homeowners to upgrade to systems that reduce nitrogen.
Bristol County Water Authority , $600,000 – This grant and a $1,410,000 match will enable the authority to work in Warren, R.I. to remove the upper and lower Kickamuit River dams. This will restore natural flow, improve the habitat, and help with fish migration. EPA's watershed grants program provided earlier funding to prepare for this removal.
Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council, $507,025 – This grant with a $326,080 match will enable the Council work in Providence to design, permit and build nature-based stormwater control measures along the Woonasquatucket River Greenway. The council's resident leader groups, the Campeones and River Rangers, will work alongside design consultants during project implementation
U.S Geological Survey, $325,000 – This interagency agreement will help develop models that will help improve septic systems estimate the susceptibility of waterbodies statewide to the impacts of nitrogen.
This year, EPA has also announced an interagency agreement with the U.S Geological Survey, funded with $325,000 from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to develop models that will help improve septic systems. The "Susceptibility of Aquifers, Streams, Ponds, and Coastal Waters to Water-Quality Impairments from Septic-System Wastewater Disposal in Rhode Island" will:
(1) determine septic-system density, and characteristics of statewide drainage areas, (2) rank the magnitude of nitrogen coming in from wastewater and other sources in the drainage areas, (3) sample water quality to find the relationship between septic density and nutrient concentrations, and (4) estimate how susceptible waterbodies statewide are to the impacts of nitrogen.
Projects Funded under SNEP Annual Appropriations
SNEP Watershed Implementation Grants Projects
For EPA watershed grants, EPA partners with Restore America's Estuaries, which manages the competitive grant process. This year, $1,707,728 is going to five projects focusing on building partnerships that tackle the region's most pressing environmental issues in areas such as nutrient pollution and coastal habitat loss.
City of Woonsocket ($500,000): "Truman Drive Green Infrastructure Parkway Construction"
Audubon Society of Rhode Island ($197,348): "Stormwater Master Plan, Education and Outreach Planning in Roger Williams Park Zoo" in Providence
Town of Warren, R.I. ($400,000): "Jamiel's Park Shoreline Restoration Project"
City of Providence. ($481,080): "Waterfront Access & Green Infrastructure at Public Street for the S. Providence Green Justice Zone"
Rhode Island Chapter of Trout Unlimited ($129,300): "Removal of the Sweet Pond Dam to Restore Aquatic Organism Passage and Enhance Water Quality" in West Greenwich, R.I.
The RI Department of Environmental Management received $299,293 with a $45,344 match, under a competitive research grant. Under the grant, DEM will complete a project aimed at better understanding when eelgrass seeds mature and how dense the seeds are. The goal is to create a model of eelgrass reproduction, especially under the stresses of climate change. Healthy eelgrass beds in coastal water hold carbon and provide habitat for aquatic life.
EPA is also providing $250,000 to the Narragansett Bay Estuary Program to support implementation of its Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, which helps protect coastal waters and build climate resilience.
Technical Assistance
Under the Network Technical Assistance Project of the Southeast New England Program, Coventry and Hopkinton will receive technical assistance through a project managed by the New England Environmental Finance Center at the University of Southern Maine.
Town of Coventry, R.I. –Coventry will receive technical assistance to help it develop long -range stormwater management planning around Upper Dam Pond. Elizabeth Scott Consulting, part of the network, will partner with the town on this project.
Town of Hopkinton, R.I. –Hopkinton will receive technical assistance to help it design and put in place stormwater management practices to address flooding and erosion at the intersection of Maxson Hill Road and Route 3. The Audubon Society of Rhode Island and Save the Bay, both network members, will partner with the town on this project.
What They Are Saying:
"Every neighborhood in Providence deserves access to clean, safe, greenspaces," said Mayor Brett P. Smiley. "The Public Street Waterfront Access Project prioritizes the health and quality-of-life of our frontline communities while also building the necessary green infrastructure to reduce pollution, manage stormwater and make our city more resilient. I am thankful to the community members and advocates that drove this process and our state and federal partners for their support in securing this funding and helping to make Providence a national leader in addressing the climate crisis."
"Clean water and healthy coastal ecosystems are essential to Rhode Island's environment, economy, and quality of life," said Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Director Terry Gray. "Since their establishment in 2012, SNEP Watershed Grants have provided millions in funding to help to conserve and restore Southeastern New England's coastal waters, watersheds, and communities. DEM is proud to partner with the SNEP Network's regional efforts to address these ecological needs and is grateful for this grant funding which will support a project that will help restore coastal habitats and improve the Ocean State's climate resiliency."
"SNEP empowers communities by providing a regional framework of funding, coordination and technical assistance, that local organizations use to create local solutions," said Tom Ardito, Director of SNEP Watershed Implementation Grants (SWIG). "Restore America's Estuaries is pleased that, again this year, more than three-quarters of our $3.2 million in grants will benefit environmental justice communities such as Providence."
"Over the past four years, the SNEP Network has worked with over 70 Southeast New England municipalities, tribes and organizations on projects and helped eight communities secure over $2M to advance their climate resilient projects," said Martha Sheils, Executive Director of New England Environmental Finance Center. "In this fifth year, we are excited to continue our capacity building efforts by offering our popular Stormwater Planning Series to four communities, two of which are in Rhode Island."
"The People's Port Authority and The Racial and Environmental Justice Committee champions the power of community engagement, fueled by the spirit of environmental justice. As we extend our heartfelt thanks for the $4.6 million in funding from the US Environmental Protection Agency," said The Peoples Port Authority Executive Director Monica Huertas. "While South Side and Washington Park have been the most affected by polluting industries, we recognize this as a shared victory for all Rhode Island communities. When one community is changed for the better, we all win. This generous support not only safeguards our coastal waters and watersheds but also strengthens partnerships with local organizations dedicated to the cause of clean water and thriving coastal ecosystems in Southeast New England. We know we have more work ahead and millions more in funding to secure if we want to achieve racial and environmental equity, However, we are confident that with continued community engagement and support, we will achieve the equity South Side and Washington Park deserve. We stand committed in our mission to combat environmental injustice and create a brighter, healthier future for all residents of Providence."
Background
In 2012, Congress charged EPA with conserving and restoring southeast New England's coastal environment, and in 2014 began providing funding to develop a Southeast New England Program. As EPA's pass-through organization, Restore America's Estuaries is now working with EPA to manage the watershed grants program, funding local organizations that are restoring clean water and healthy coastal ecosystems. The New England Environmental Finance Center serves as the pass-through organization for the related watershed network, which offers free technical assistance to communities throughout the southeast New England region.
For more about EPA's Southeast New England Program, SNEP Watershed Grants, and the SNEP Network see: https://www.epa.gov/snep and www.snepgrants.org and www.snepnetwork.org.
EPA, Salish Kootenai College partnership to strengthen career opportunities for Native American students
October 6, 2023
Contact Information
Pablo, Mont. – Leaders from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Salish Kootenai College made a strong commitment to building skills and career opportunities for Native American students during a partnership signing ceremony in Pablo, Montana, today. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between EPA and SKC will promote education and recruitment of diverse students for environment-related careers for students in fields such as science and environmental justice.
“EPA is invested in recruiting a talented, diverse workforce to fulfill our mission to protect human health and the environment, and we are excited to partner with Salish Kootenai College in this effort,” said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. “EPA looks forward to supporting the College as they help their students build skills and expertise to address environmental concerns and prepare for careers in STEM fields.”
Plans for the agreement include:
Broadening support for various career fields;
Federal hiring and resume workshops for students;
Career guidance from EPA professionals;
Presentations by EPA experts at classes and conferences; and
Exploring opportunities for joint research projects to support student development.
Background
The mission of Salish Kootenai College is to provide quality post-secondary educational opportunities for Native Americans, locally and from throughout the United States. The College promotes community and individual development and currently serves students from 53 North American Tribes across 16 U.S. states and Canadian provinces.
EPA’s mission depends on the recruitment of highly trained, diverse professionals in STEM and related environmental-policy fields to fulfill its mission. In order to meet research needs and encourage full representation of all citizens, EPA will work closely with SKC administrators, educators and students to increase awareness of job and internship opportunities and contribute to students’ career development.
Contact Information
Pablo, Mont. – Leaders from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Salish Kootenai College made a strong commitment to building skills and career opportunities for Native American students during a partnership signing ceremony in Pablo, Montana, today. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between EPA and SKC will promote education and recruitment of diverse students for environment-related careers for students in fields such as science and environmental justice.
“EPA is invested in recruiting a talented, diverse workforce to fulfill our mission to protect human health and the environment, and we are excited to partner with Salish Kootenai College in this effort,” said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. “EPA looks forward to supporting the College as they help their students build skills and expertise to address environmental concerns and prepare for careers in STEM fields.”
Plans for the agreement include:
Broadening support for various career fields;
Federal hiring and resume workshops for students;
Career guidance from EPA professionals;
Presentations by EPA experts at classes and conferences; and
Exploring opportunities for joint research projects to support student development.
Background
The mission of Salish Kootenai College is to provide quality post-secondary educational opportunities for Native Americans, locally and from throughout the United States. The College promotes community and individual development and currently serves students from 53 North American Tribes across 16 U.S. states and Canadian provinces.
EPA’s mission depends on the recruitment of highly trained, diverse professionals in STEM and related environmental-policy fields to fulfill its mission. In order to meet research needs and encourage full representation of all citizens, EPA will work closely with SKC administrators, educators and students to increase awareness of job and internship opportunities and contribute to students’ career development.
EPA Announces Five California 2023 Safer Choice Partner of the Year Award Winners
SAN FRANCISCO – This week, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced five Safer Choice Partner of the Year award winners from California, recognizing their achievements in the design, manufacture, and the selection and use of cleaners, detergents and other products with safer chemicals.
The Safer Choice program helps consumers and facilities like schools and office buildings find cleaning and other products containing chemical ingredients that are safer alternatives for human health and the environment. Applicants for this year’s awards were encouraged to show how their work promotes environmental justice, bolsters resilience to the impacts of climate change, results in cleaner air or water, improves drinking water quality, or advances innovation in packaging.
“This week, we recognize outstanding Safer Choice partners and stakeholders who are working to make sure people have access to products with safer ingredients for people and the planet,” said EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Deputy Assistant Administrator for Pollution Prevention Jennie Romer. “This year’s Safer Choice Partner of the Year awardees have worked to contribute to the Biden-Harris Administration’s goals of addressing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), advancing environmental justice, and reducing plastic pollution.”
The 2023 Safer Choice Partners of the Year in California are:
Apple (Cupertino) – Apple encouraged industry adoption of safer chemicals and used safer chemicals in its own manufacturing processes. In 2022, Apple approved 58 new cleaners for use in its supply chain, totaling 133 safer cleaner and degreaser alternatives, and identified 19,000 unique uses of process chemicals. Through launching ChemWorks and IPC-1402 (a standard for greener cleaners used in electronics manufacturing), Apple supported safer chemicals across the industry.
The Clorox Company (Oakland) – Clorox has been a Safer Choice partner since 2007. 84% of Clorox packaging is recyclable, reusable or compostable, an 8% increase since 2021. All Clorox Safer Choice-certified products display the Safer Choice label on the front of the packaging. Clorox promotes transparency and consumer understanding through the SmartLabel platform and standardized terms for over 800 ingredients.
“Developing products that have Safer Choice or Design for the Environment certifications is an important part of Clorox’s integrated Environmental, Social and Governance goals that support healthy lives,” said Lisa Pankiewicz, Vice President Global Stewardship at The Clorox Company. “Products that contain these certifications provide consumers with the trust and confidence to make choices on which products are right for them and their families.”
ECOS (Cypress) – In 2022, ECOS submitted three new products for Safer Choice certification, reaching certification for 88% of their product offering and package labeling for 98% of their Safer Choice-certified products. In 2022, ECOS developed new laundry and dish packs, concentrated cleaners and detergent sheets designed to reduce or eliminate plastic packaging and diverted 4,500 tons of trash through waste reduction strategies, supporting EPA’s goal of addressing climate change. ECOS uses 100% renewable energy in their facilities, which saves more than 28 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
“ECOS is proud to be named a Safer Choice Partner of the Year for the seventh time,” said Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, president & CEO of ECOS. “For over 55 years, our mission has been to protect the health and wellness of people, pets, and the planet by creating the most authentic, sustainable, and affordable cleaning products for all. Consumers have a right to know what’s in the products they bring into their home, and we’re proud to partner with the EPA Safer Choice program to help them easily find safer cleaning products wherever they shop.”
Mighty Fire Breaker LLC (Rohnert Park) – One hundred percent of the Mighty Fire Breaker product line is Safer Choice-certified, and all products display the Safer Choice label on the front of the package. Mighty Fire Breaker’s liquid fire inhibitor, promoting water conservation, is the first fire defense product to earn Safer Choice certification, creating a new product category for the program. In 2022, Mighty Fire Breaker created a children’s book on climate change challenges and the importance of reading product labels, looking for the Safer Choice label and knowing what’s in products.
Sensitive Home (Greenbrae) – In 2022, 100% of Sensitive Home products were Safer Choice-certified products, and they all displayed the Safer Choice label on the front of the package. Sensitive Home includes the Safer Choice label and messaging about the program through their online store, print marketing materials and media outreach. All ingredients used by Sensitive Home are listed on EPA’s Safer Chemical Ingredients list and/or on CleanGredients, a database of chemical ingredients pre-approved for use in Safer Choice-certified products.
“We are very thankful to again be chosen as one of this year’s EPA Safer Choice Partners of the Year for the third year of our existence,” said Gregory van Buskirk, co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Sensitive Home. “Our mission has been well-aligned with that of Safer Choice from the beginning, and to this day, every one of our products is certified by Safer Choice. Every time we develop a formula, our question is quite honestly, ‘What would Safer Choice do?’ As we strive to improve the lives of the sensitive community (and to ‘Heal the World’ as a whole), we are blessed to have as generous and helpful an ally as Safer Choice.”
Many Safer Choice partners recognized by EPA across the nation have shown leadership and innovation in safer chemistry and sustainable packaging. Other winners are reducing plastic use and water consumption by offering their products as concentrates or tablets. These practices also lower greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the amount of product that must be transported. Additionally, many awardees worked to advance environmental justice through education on products with safer ingredients in underserved and overburdened communities.
A list of the 2023 Safer Choice Partner of the Year award winners and summaries of their accomplishments is available on EPA’s website.
Find Safer Choice Products on EPA’s website.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on X.
The Safer Choice program helps consumers and facilities like schools and office buildings find cleaning and other products containing chemical ingredients that are safer alternatives for human health and the environment. Applicants for this year’s awards were encouraged to show how their work promotes environmental justice, bolsters resilience to the impacts of climate change, results in cleaner air or water, improves drinking water quality, or advances innovation in packaging.
“This week, we recognize outstanding Safer Choice partners and stakeholders who are working to make sure people have access to products with safer ingredients for people and the planet,” said EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Deputy Assistant Administrator for Pollution Prevention Jennie Romer. “This year’s Safer Choice Partner of the Year awardees have worked to contribute to the Biden-Harris Administration’s goals of addressing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), advancing environmental justice, and reducing plastic pollution.”
The 2023 Safer Choice Partners of the Year in California are:
Apple (Cupertino) – Apple encouraged industry adoption of safer chemicals and used safer chemicals in its own manufacturing processes. In 2022, Apple approved 58 new cleaners for use in its supply chain, totaling 133 safer cleaner and degreaser alternatives, and identified 19,000 unique uses of process chemicals. Through launching ChemWorks and IPC-1402 (a standard for greener cleaners used in electronics manufacturing), Apple supported safer chemicals across the industry.
The Clorox Company (Oakland) – Clorox has been a Safer Choice partner since 2007. 84% of Clorox packaging is recyclable, reusable or compostable, an 8% increase since 2021. All Clorox Safer Choice-certified products display the Safer Choice label on the front of the packaging. Clorox promotes transparency and consumer understanding through the SmartLabel platform and standardized terms for over 800 ingredients.
“Developing products that have Safer Choice or Design for the Environment certifications is an important part of Clorox’s integrated Environmental, Social and Governance goals that support healthy lives,” said Lisa Pankiewicz, Vice President Global Stewardship at The Clorox Company. “Products that contain these certifications provide consumers with the trust and confidence to make choices on which products are right for them and their families.”
ECOS (Cypress) – In 2022, ECOS submitted three new products for Safer Choice certification, reaching certification for 88% of their product offering and package labeling for 98% of their Safer Choice-certified products. In 2022, ECOS developed new laundry and dish packs, concentrated cleaners and detergent sheets designed to reduce or eliminate plastic packaging and diverted 4,500 tons of trash through waste reduction strategies, supporting EPA’s goal of addressing climate change. ECOS uses 100% renewable energy in their facilities, which saves more than 28 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
“ECOS is proud to be named a Safer Choice Partner of the Year for the seventh time,” said Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, president & CEO of ECOS. “For over 55 years, our mission has been to protect the health and wellness of people, pets, and the planet by creating the most authentic, sustainable, and affordable cleaning products for all. Consumers have a right to know what’s in the products they bring into their home, and we’re proud to partner with the EPA Safer Choice program to help them easily find safer cleaning products wherever they shop.”
Mighty Fire Breaker LLC (Rohnert Park) – One hundred percent of the Mighty Fire Breaker product line is Safer Choice-certified, and all products display the Safer Choice label on the front of the package. Mighty Fire Breaker’s liquid fire inhibitor, promoting water conservation, is the first fire defense product to earn Safer Choice certification, creating a new product category for the program. In 2022, Mighty Fire Breaker created a children’s book on climate change challenges and the importance of reading product labels, looking for the Safer Choice label and knowing what’s in products.
Sensitive Home (Greenbrae) – In 2022, 100% of Sensitive Home products were Safer Choice-certified products, and they all displayed the Safer Choice label on the front of the package. Sensitive Home includes the Safer Choice label and messaging about the program through their online store, print marketing materials and media outreach. All ingredients used by Sensitive Home are listed on EPA’s Safer Chemical Ingredients list and/or on CleanGredients, a database of chemical ingredients pre-approved for use in Safer Choice-certified products.
“We are very thankful to again be chosen as one of this year’s EPA Safer Choice Partners of the Year for the third year of our existence,” said Gregory van Buskirk, co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Sensitive Home. “Our mission has been well-aligned with that of Safer Choice from the beginning, and to this day, every one of our products is certified by Safer Choice. Every time we develop a formula, our question is quite honestly, ‘What would Safer Choice do?’ As we strive to improve the lives of the sensitive community (and to ‘Heal the World’ as a whole), we are blessed to have as generous and helpful an ally as Safer Choice.”
Many Safer Choice partners recognized by EPA across the nation have shown leadership and innovation in safer chemistry and sustainable packaging. Other winners are reducing plastic use and water consumption by offering their products as concentrates or tablets. These practices also lower greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the amount of product that must be transported. Additionally, many awardees worked to advance environmental justice through education on products with safer ingredients in underserved and overburdened communities.
A list of the 2023 Safer Choice Partner of the Year award winners and summaries of their accomplishments is available on EPA’s website.
Find Safer Choice Products on EPA’s website.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on X.
Rail dwells rising along West Coast amid shortage of available rail cars
Marine terminal operators in Los Angeles-Long Beach and the Pacific Northwest are dealing with an increase in rail container dwell times due to an east-west imbalance in rail equipment that has worsened in recent weeks.
Rail dwells rising along West Coast amid shortage of available rail cars
Marine terminal operators in Los Angeles-Long Beach and the Pacific Northwest are dealing with an increase in rail container dwell times owing to an east-west imbalance in rail equipment that has worsened in recent weeks.