EPA Releases 20 Climate Adaptation Implementation Plans from National Offices, Regions to Increase Resilience to Impacts of Climate Change
WASHINGTON – Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released 20 Climate Adaptation Implementation Plans that were developed by its major offices, including national program offices and all 10 regional offices. These Implementation Plans reaffirm the strong commitments made in EPA’s 2021 Climate Adaptation Action Plan to address the devastating impacts of climate change on communities across the nation, while advancing environmental justice and equity. They provide details on the specific actions each office will take to protect human health and the environment and to increase the resilience of the entire nation as we face increasingly harmful impacts of climate change.
President Biden has set the most ambitious climate change mitigation and adaptation goals in U.S. history, and EPA plays a central role in delivering on those commitments. With the 20 new Implementation Plans, EPA will continue to use its authorities and resources to help communities prepare for the serious climate impacts that are already underway.
“Traveling across the country, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impacts that climate change is having on millions of Americans. We need to take actions to ensure a safe, resilient, and equitable future,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “The Biden-Harris Administration is confronting the climate crisis through a whole-of-government approach. The release of the Implementation Plans today marks significant progress in EPA’s efforts to ensure we are doing everything we can to protect human health and the environment.”
These plans are being released as EPA works to implement the largest investment in the nation’s history to tackle the climate crisis – President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. Under these laws, the Agency is making historic investments to strengthen our nation’s resilience to climate change, while reducing harmful air pollution, rebuilding critical community infrastructure, advancing environmental justice, and saving families money on their energy bills.
Building on this progress, the 20 Implementation Plans shared today provide a roadmap for the specific actions the agency will take in the years ahead to ensure it continues to protect human health and the environment even as the climate changes, and to partner with states, tribes, territories, local governments, and communities of all sizes to strengthen their ability to anticipate, prepare for, adapt to, and recover from the impacts of climate change. The plans include over 400 commitments to ensure clean air, water, land, and chemical safety even as the climate changes. They also identify strategies that deliver co-benefits for mitigation of greenhouse gases and other pollution, public health, economic growth, national security, equity, and environmental justice—all central to building a more resilient future.
The Implementation Plans recognize that climate disruption often hits already overburdened communities and people the hardest. The plans also consider the disproportionate impacts on those who are already overburdened and underserved in our society, including low-income communities and communities of color, children, the elderly, tribes, and indigenous people. EPA is already engaging and will continue to engage with underserved and vulnerable communities to ensure actions taken follow the principles of environmental justice and equity.
Read the 20 Climate Adaptation Implementation Plans that were developed by EPA’s major offices.
Read more information on EPA’s 2021 Climate Adaptation Action Plan.
Read President Biden’s Executive Order on Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad.
President Biden has set the most ambitious climate change mitigation and adaptation goals in U.S. history, and EPA plays a central role in delivering on those commitments. With the 20 new Implementation Plans, EPA will continue to use its authorities and resources to help communities prepare for the serious climate impacts that are already underway.
“Traveling across the country, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impacts that climate change is having on millions of Americans. We need to take actions to ensure a safe, resilient, and equitable future,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “The Biden-Harris Administration is confronting the climate crisis through a whole-of-government approach. The release of the Implementation Plans today marks significant progress in EPA’s efforts to ensure we are doing everything we can to protect human health and the environment.”
These plans are being released as EPA works to implement the largest investment in the nation’s history to tackle the climate crisis – President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. Under these laws, the Agency is making historic investments to strengthen our nation’s resilience to climate change, while reducing harmful air pollution, rebuilding critical community infrastructure, advancing environmental justice, and saving families money on their energy bills.
Building on this progress, the 20 Implementation Plans shared today provide a roadmap for the specific actions the agency will take in the years ahead to ensure it continues to protect human health and the environment even as the climate changes, and to partner with states, tribes, territories, local governments, and communities of all sizes to strengthen their ability to anticipate, prepare for, adapt to, and recover from the impacts of climate change. The plans include over 400 commitments to ensure clean air, water, land, and chemical safety even as the climate changes. They also identify strategies that deliver co-benefits for mitigation of greenhouse gases and other pollution, public health, economic growth, national security, equity, and environmental justice—all central to building a more resilient future.
The Implementation Plans recognize that climate disruption often hits already overburdened communities and people the hardest. The plans also consider the disproportionate impacts on those who are already overburdened and underserved in our society, including low-income communities and communities of color, children, the elderly, tribes, and indigenous people. EPA is already engaging and will continue to engage with underserved and vulnerable communities to ensure actions taken follow the principles of environmental justice and equity.
Read the 20 Climate Adaptation Implementation Plans that were developed by EPA’s major offices.
Read more information on EPA’s 2021 Climate Adaptation Action Plan.
Read President Biden’s Executive Order on Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad.
EPA Announces $5 million for Louisiana in Brownfields Funding
DALLAS, TEXAS – (October 6, 2022) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that four Louisiana agencies will receive a total of $5 million in Brownfield grant funding. The announcement was made at an event in Thibodaux, Louisiana, this week. The agencies being awarded include the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, the City/Parish of Baton Rouge, the South Central Planning and Development Commission and the New Orleans Regional Planning Commission.
"Due to the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA can count on many effective partners in Louisiana that understand the value of redevelopment investments for disadvantaged communities,” said Region 6 Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “The BIL continues to be an achievement that prioritizes public health in our communities. With this funding, Brownfields programs will now be able to address specific sites that have prevented economic growth for years. EPA remains grateful for our Louisiana partners’ cooperation and for their longstanding mission of protecting human health.”
“It is a historic day for southeast Louisiana as we celebrate $5 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to clean up brownfield sites across our communities,” said Congressman Troy Carter. “Together, these investments will transform unusable and unsafe properties into thriving, clean, and exciting areas that can be used to help grow jobs and build community. This is yet another example of Congress and the Biden Administration’s dedication to deliver results and improve daily life for the American people. I am so proud to have advocated for and supported the Infrastructure Law until it finally became a reality.”
The City of Baton Rouge and the Parish of East Baton Rouge will receive a community wide grant for $500,000. These funds will be used to conduct 10 Phase I and 12 Phase II environmental site assessments. Grant funds also will be used to develop three cleanup plans and support community outreach activities. The priority areas for this grant are the Mid-City neighborhood, the Plank Road Corridor, and the Scotlandville neighborhood.
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will receive $2,000,000 to conduct 50 Phase I and 30 Phase II environmental site assessments. Additionally, focus will be placed on developing 25 cleanup plans and support community outreach activities. The target areas for this grant are the City of Pineville, the Shreveport Common neighborhood in the City of Shreveport, and the City of Eunice’s downtown district.
The South Central Planning and Development Commission will receive $2 million for its Revolving Loan Fund Program. The SCPDC will use these funds to encourage and support the assessment, cleanup-up, and appropriate redevelopment of properties for sustainable use within the SCPDC target area. The funds will also help local residents with community and economic development.
The New Orleans Regional Planning Commission will receive $500,000 to conduct 15 Phase I and four Phase II environmental site assessments. Funds will also be distributed to develop five cleanup plans, one reuse plan, and one area-wide plan, and to support community outreach activities. The target area for this grant is the St. Bernard Parish Commercial Corridor, which is the commercial backbone for local communities.
Since its inception in 1995, the Environmental Protection Agency’s investments in brownfield sites have leveraged more than $35 billion in cleanup and redevelopment. This has led to significant benefits for communities across the country. To date, this funding has led to more than 183,000 jobs in cleanup, construction, and redevelopment and more than 9,500 properties have been made ready for reuse. Please visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s Brownfields Program website for additional information.
Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homepage.
"Due to the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA can count on many effective partners in Louisiana that understand the value of redevelopment investments for disadvantaged communities,” said Region 6 Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “The BIL continues to be an achievement that prioritizes public health in our communities. With this funding, Brownfields programs will now be able to address specific sites that have prevented economic growth for years. EPA remains grateful for our Louisiana partners’ cooperation and for their longstanding mission of protecting human health.”
“It is a historic day for southeast Louisiana as we celebrate $5 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to clean up brownfield sites across our communities,” said Congressman Troy Carter. “Together, these investments will transform unusable and unsafe properties into thriving, clean, and exciting areas that can be used to help grow jobs and build community. This is yet another example of Congress and the Biden Administration’s dedication to deliver results and improve daily life for the American people. I am so proud to have advocated for and supported the Infrastructure Law until it finally became a reality.”
The City of Baton Rouge and the Parish of East Baton Rouge will receive a community wide grant for $500,000. These funds will be used to conduct 10 Phase I and 12 Phase II environmental site assessments. Grant funds also will be used to develop three cleanup plans and support community outreach activities. The priority areas for this grant are the Mid-City neighborhood, the Plank Road Corridor, and the Scotlandville neighborhood.
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will receive $2,000,000 to conduct 50 Phase I and 30 Phase II environmental site assessments. Additionally, focus will be placed on developing 25 cleanup plans and support community outreach activities. The target areas for this grant are the City of Pineville, the Shreveport Common neighborhood in the City of Shreveport, and the City of Eunice’s downtown district.
The South Central Planning and Development Commission will receive $2 million for its Revolving Loan Fund Program. The SCPDC will use these funds to encourage and support the assessment, cleanup-up, and appropriate redevelopment of properties for sustainable use within the SCPDC target area. The funds will also help local residents with community and economic development.
The New Orleans Regional Planning Commission will receive $500,000 to conduct 15 Phase I and four Phase II environmental site assessments. Funds will also be distributed to develop five cleanup plans, one reuse plan, and one area-wide plan, and to support community outreach activities. The target area for this grant is the St. Bernard Parish Commercial Corridor, which is the commercial backbone for local communities.
Since its inception in 1995, the Environmental Protection Agency’s investments in brownfield sites have leveraged more than $35 billion in cleanup and redevelopment. This has led to significant benefits for communities across the country. To date, this funding has led to more than 183,000 jobs in cleanup, construction, and redevelopment and more than 9,500 properties have been made ready for reuse. Please visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s Brownfields Program website for additional information.
Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homepage.
Baltimore County Police cited by EPA for hazardous waste violations at firing range in Timonium, Md.
PHILADELPHIA (Oct. 6, 2022) – The Baltimore County Police Department will pay a $15,800 penalty for hazardous waste violations associated with the improper management of lead-contaminated soil at an outdoor firing range in Timonium, Maryland, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today.
The outdoor firing range is used by county police officers for firing practice of primarily handguns, which use bullets made of lead and a copper alloy. The soil at the firing range is considered hazardous waste due to lead concentrations from bullets, and it must be handled and disposed of in accordance with EPA regulations.
Exposure to high levels of lead may cause serious health problems. Lead is toxic and exposure to lead can affect almost every organ and system in your body. Children six years old and younger are most susceptible to the effects of lead, but it can also be harmful to adults. EPA efforts to reduce lead exposure have contributed to blood lead levels in U.S. children steadily dropping over the past four decades, but lead exposure persists in communities throughout the country.
EPA cited the police department for violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the federal law governing the treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. RCRA is designed to protect public health and the environment, and avoid long and extensive cleanups, by requiring the safe, environmentally sound storage and disposal of hazardous waste.
Alleged violations included: operation of a hazardous waste management facility without a permit, failure to provide hazardous waste management training to staff, failure to provide hazardous waste responsibilities in written job descriptions, and failure to have a hazardous waste contingency plan.
The EPA website has more information about EPA’s hazardous waste program .
The outdoor firing range is used by county police officers for firing practice of primarily handguns, which use bullets made of lead and a copper alloy. The soil at the firing range is considered hazardous waste due to lead concentrations from bullets, and it must be handled and disposed of in accordance with EPA regulations.
Exposure to high levels of lead may cause serious health problems. Lead is toxic and exposure to lead can affect almost every organ and system in your body. Children six years old and younger are most susceptible to the effects of lead, but it can also be harmful to adults. EPA efforts to reduce lead exposure have contributed to blood lead levels in U.S. children steadily dropping over the past four decades, but lead exposure persists in communities throughout the country.
EPA cited the police department for violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the federal law governing the treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. RCRA is designed to protect public health and the environment, and avoid long and extensive cleanups, by requiring the safe, environmentally sound storage and disposal of hazardous waste.
Alleged violations included: operation of a hazardous waste management facility without a permit, failure to provide hazardous waste management training to staff, failure to provide hazardous waste responsibilities in written job descriptions, and failure to have a hazardous waste contingency plan.
The EPA website has more information about EPA’s hazardous waste program .
Nationwide EPA Initiative Aims to Reduce Lead Exposure in Portsmouth Communities
PHILADELPHIA (Oct. 6, 2022) – As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to advancing environmental justice, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is targeting its Enhancing Lead-Safe Work Practices through Education and Outreach (ELSWPEO) initiative to raise awareness about childhood lead exposure and protect environmentally overburdened communities. The next Mid-Atlantic ELSWPEO opportunity is scheduled for Portsmouth, Virginia. The initiative will kick-off in October, in celebration of Children’s Health Month and National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week.
Many homes, apartments and child-care facilities built before 1978 contain lead-based paint. When disturbed, lead-based paint can release toxic lead dust and cause lead exposure, which is particularly harmful to children. While lead is dangerous to all children, lead exposure disproportionately impacts low-income families and their communities, making the free trainings offered by ELSWPEO an important step toward achieving environmental justice.
“This Program’s goal is to reduce harm to kids from exposure to lead in underrepresented and underserved communities whose populations are disproportionately affected by lead exposure,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “By enhancing lead-safe work practices through education and outreach this EPA training initiative focuses on reducing childhood lead exposure where it is needed most.”
This year’s EPA Mid-Atlantic ELSWPEO activities will center around Portsmouth, Virginia, from October to December, and will include:
On Oct. 26 and 27, EPA’s Mid-Atlantic Region will provide: Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) training for local officials’ awareness; training sessions to local permitting officials; housing authority inspectors; and Virginia building and code officials in partnership with the Virginia Building and Code Officials Association.
On Nov. 14, from 10 am – 5:45 pm, EPA’s Mid-Atlantic Region will be offering a free RRP Renovator training in Portsmouth, VA in English for contractors to become RRP certified.
There will be two in-person Lead Awareness Curriculum sessions with EPA HQ, EPA Region 3, ATSDR Region 3, and partners from the Virginia Department of Health Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program in Portsmouth, Virginia, at the City of Portsmouth Social Services Department:
-On Nov. 30, from 5-7 p.m., EPA will provide an “Understanding Lead” session for the public.
-On Dec. 1, from 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., EPA will hold a “Train-the-Trainer” session on the Lead Awareness Curriculum for community leaders and educators.
Through this two-pronged approach, ELSWEPO is designed to increase consumer demand for lead-safe work practices, and for RRP-certified contractors in selected, underserved communities across the United States and its territories.
Registration Details:
Understanding Lead: Register online at https://PortsmouthUnderstandingLead.eventbrite.com
Train-the-Trainer: Register online at https://PortsmouthTrainTheTrainer.eventbrite.com
RRP Renovator Training: Register online at https://public-health-safety.com/product/rrpi-2022-111422-lead-renovation-repair-painting-8-hour-initial-10-am-start-portsmouth-va-free/ or by phone at 312-491-0081
For more details, see https://www.epa.gov/lead/local-training-and-outreach
Many homes, apartments and child-care facilities built before 1978 contain lead-based paint. When disturbed, lead-based paint can release toxic lead dust and cause lead exposure, which is particularly harmful to children. While lead is dangerous to all children, lead exposure disproportionately impacts low-income families and their communities, making the free trainings offered by ELSWPEO an important step toward achieving environmental justice.
“This Program’s goal is to reduce harm to kids from exposure to lead in underrepresented and underserved communities whose populations are disproportionately affected by lead exposure,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “By enhancing lead-safe work practices through education and outreach this EPA training initiative focuses on reducing childhood lead exposure where it is needed most.”
This year’s EPA Mid-Atlantic ELSWPEO activities will center around Portsmouth, Virginia, from October to December, and will include:
On Oct. 26 and 27, EPA’s Mid-Atlantic Region will provide: Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) training for local officials’ awareness; training sessions to local permitting officials; housing authority inspectors; and Virginia building and code officials in partnership with the Virginia Building and Code Officials Association.
On Nov. 14, from 10 am – 5:45 pm, EPA’s Mid-Atlantic Region will be offering a free RRP Renovator training in Portsmouth, VA in English for contractors to become RRP certified.
There will be two in-person Lead Awareness Curriculum sessions with EPA HQ, EPA Region 3, ATSDR Region 3, and partners from the Virginia Department of Health Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program in Portsmouth, Virginia, at the City of Portsmouth Social Services Department:
-On Nov. 30, from 5-7 p.m., EPA will provide an “Understanding Lead” session for the public.
-On Dec. 1, from 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., EPA will hold a “Train-the-Trainer” session on the Lead Awareness Curriculum for community leaders and educators.
Through this two-pronged approach, ELSWEPO is designed to increase consumer demand for lead-safe work practices, and for RRP-certified contractors in selected, underserved communities across the United States and its territories.
Registration Details:
Understanding Lead: Register online at https://PortsmouthUnderstandingLead.eventbrite.com
Train-the-Trainer: Register online at https://PortsmouthTrainTheTrainer.eventbrite.com
RRP Renovator Training: Register online at https://public-health-safety.com/product/rrpi-2022-111422-lead-renovation-repair-painting-8-hour-initial-10-am-start-portsmouth-va-free/ or by phone at 312-491-0081
For more details, see https://www.epa.gov/lead/local-training-and-outreach
EPA Announces Innovative Effort to Bring New Chemicals Used in Electric Vehicle, Semiconductor, Clean Energy Sectors to Market
WASHINGTON - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a new effort under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to implement a streamlined and efficient process under the New Chemicals Program to assess risk and apply mitigation measures, as appropriate, for new chemicals with applications in batteries, electric vehicles, semiconductors and renewable energy generation.
Under TSCA, EPA’s New Chemicals Program plays an important role by reviewing all new chemical substances before they enter the marketplace in order to bring innovative chemistries to market in a way that does not harm human health or the environment.
“From job creation to energy security – clean energy sectors will power the future of our country,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Michal Freedhoff. “Streamlining our review of new chemical substances that make up electric vehicle batteries and that can be used in other vital emerging markets will allow manufacturers to super-charge production, bolstering our economy and advancing the Biden-Harris Administration’s goals to protect the environment and combat the climate crisis.”
The new process is for mixed metal oxides (MMOs), including new and modified cathode active materials (CAMs). MMOs are innovative chemistries and have numerous electrical applications in batteries as well as use as catalysts, adsorbents, and in ceramics. Notably, MMOs, including CAMs, are a key component in lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles, which are a growing and important industry. New MMOs can also be used for semi-conductors, and renewable energy generation and storage, such as solar cells and wind power turbines. They typically consist of lithium, nickel, cobalt and other metals, and they are the key material used in the production of the cathode in battery cells, which are subsequently assembled into a battery.
This effort supports President Biden’s bold agenda to tackle the climate crisis, and will complement the resources flowing to EPA from historic legislation signed by the President. There are incentives attached to clean energy under the Inflation Reduction Act, including tax credits for electric vehicles. Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, there are also incentives to build a national network of electric vehicle chargers.
Like all chemical substances not listed on the TSCA Inventory, MMOs, including new and modified CAMs, are subject to section 5 of TSCA, which requires manufacturers (including importers) of new chemical substances to provide EPA with notice before initiating the activity by submitting a Premanufacture Notice (PMN). When EPA receives a PMN, TSCA requires the agency to fully assess all the potential hazards and exposures of the new chemical substance, make a determination as to whether it presents an unreasonable risk to human health or the environment, and take steps to address that risk before it can enter commerce
EPA has reviewed hundreds of TSCA section 5 submissions for MMOs, including CAMs and modified CAMs, since the 1980’s. To further describe this new effort, EPA will launch outreach and training for interested stakeholders to outline the new streamlined approach to reviewing MMOs, basics of TSCA statutory and regulatory requirements, and steps for navigating the new chemicals submission process.
Subscribe to OCSPP’s news releases to receive notices about upcoming webinars.
Today’s announcement is supplemented with the release of a Compliance Advisory that reaffirms that new MMOs, which includes CAMs and modified CAMs, are new chemical substances subject to TSCA. Anyone who plans to manufacture (including import) a CAM or modified CAM that is not on the TSCA Inventory must comply with the TSCA section 5 new chemical requirements and implementing regulations.
In January 2022, EPA launched a similar effort to streamline the review of dozens of PMNs for biofuels that could be used to displace current, higher greenhouse gas emitting transportation fuels. Under this effort, EPA has completed about 95 percent of all biofuel PMNs submitted since the initiative was announced.
More information about EPA’s review of new chemicals and MMOs.
Under TSCA, EPA’s New Chemicals Program plays an important role by reviewing all new chemical substances before they enter the marketplace in order to bring innovative chemistries to market in a way that does not harm human health or the environment.
“From job creation to energy security – clean energy sectors will power the future of our country,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Michal Freedhoff. “Streamlining our review of new chemical substances that make up electric vehicle batteries and that can be used in other vital emerging markets will allow manufacturers to super-charge production, bolstering our economy and advancing the Biden-Harris Administration’s goals to protect the environment and combat the climate crisis.”
The new process is for mixed metal oxides (MMOs), including new and modified cathode active materials (CAMs). MMOs are innovative chemistries and have numerous electrical applications in batteries as well as use as catalysts, adsorbents, and in ceramics. Notably, MMOs, including CAMs, are a key component in lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles, which are a growing and important industry. New MMOs can also be used for semi-conductors, and renewable energy generation and storage, such as solar cells and wind power turbines. They typically consist of lithium, nickel, cobalt and other metals, and they are the key material used in the production of the cathode in battery cells, which are subsequently assembled into a battery.
This effort supports President Biden’s bold agenda to tackle the climate crisis, and will complement the resources flowing to EPA from historic legislation signed by the President. There are incentives attached to clean energy under the Inflation Reduction Act, including tax credits for electric vehicles. Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, there are also incentives to build a national network of electric vehicle chargers.
Like all chemical substances not listed on the TSCA Inventory, MMOs, including new and modified CAMs, are subject to section 5 of TSCA, which requires manufacturers (including importers) of new chemical substances to provide EPA with notice before initiating the activity by submitting a Premanufacture Notice (PMN). When EPA receives a PMN, TSCA requires the agency to fully assess all the potential hazards and exposures of the new chemical substance, make a determination as to whether it presents an unreasonable risk to human health or the environment, and take steps to address that risk before it can enter commerce
EPA has reviewed hundreds of TSCA section 5 submissions for MMOs, including CAMs and modified CAMs, since the 1980’s. To further describe this new effort, EPA will launch outreach and training for interested stakeholders to outline the new streamlined approach to reviewing MMOs, basics of TSCA statutory and regulatory requirements, and steps for navigating the new chemicals submission process.
Subscribe to OCSPP’s news releases to receive notices about upcoming webinars.
Today’s announcement is supplemented with the release of a Compliance Advisory that reaffirms that new MMOs, which includes CAMs and modified CAMs, are new chemical substances subject to TSCA. Anyone who plans to manufacture (including import) a CAM or modified CAM that is not on the TSCA Inventory must comply with the TSCA section 5 new chemical requirements and implementing regulations.
In January 2022, EPA launched a similar effort to streamline the review of dozens of PMNs for biofuels that could be used to displace current, higher greenhouse gas emitting transportation fuels. Under this effort, EPA has completed about 95 percent of all biofuel PMNs submitted since the initiative was announced.
More information about EPA’s review of new chemicals and MMOs.
EPA Awards $80M in Water Infrastructure Funding to Kansas at Clean Water Act 50th Anniversary Celebration Where Missouri and Kansas Rivers Meet
LENEXA, KAN. (OCT. 5 , 2022) – Today at the confluence of the Missouri and Kansas rivers, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox joined EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister for the Midwest stop on the Clean Water Act 50th anniversary celebration tour.
“When Congress passed the Clean Water Act in 1972, with an overwhelming bipartisan majority, it charted a new path for America’s waters,” said Fox. “In the past 50 years, the Missouri and Kansas rivers, along with other treasured waterways nationally, have been transformed into spaces that drive economic growth, environmental health, and recreational access. Looking forward, we have a unique opportunity to continue protecting these rivers and invest in Kansas’ water infrastructure through the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.”
During the event at Kaw Point Park in Kansas City, Kansas, the EPA leaders presented an $80 million big check to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment for their State Revolving Fund (SRF). The award marks the state’s first SRF distribution funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This new funding brings Kansas’ total for the year to nearly $100 million, and is the first of five annual distributions to the state from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
“The Heartland is connected by big rivers, with the Missouri River – the longest in North America – flowing through Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska,” said McCollister. “Today, we celebrate the Clean Water Act successes that have transformed our rivers into places of recreation, the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding that will allow us to continue our water protections, and the community organizations that are integral to keeping our river access points clean.”
U.S. Representative Sharice Davids (KS-3); Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Deputy Secretary for Environment Leo Henning; Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, Mayor and CEO Tyrone A. Garner; and local partners joined EPA to reflect on the progress under the Clean Water Act and the promise of Kansas’ historic SRF award.
“From the water in our tap to the rain in our gutters, water infrastructure touches many parts of our lives. Most people don’t always realize how important those systems are until they fail, but it’s our responsibility to ensure they never get to that point,” said Davids. “I am glad to welcome funding from the bipartisan infrastructure bill to help deliver cleaner drinking water, safer stormwater systems, and better wastewater management to our communities.”
“Kansas has taken its responsibility in implementing the Clean Water Act seriously since its inception in 1972,” said Henning. “We have made significant investments in our wastewater infrastructure, which grants such as this one today from EPA have made possible. As a rural state, we have had to be innovative in incentivizing management practices to reduce pollutants coming off of ag lands during runoff. While emerging issues always loom on the horizon of clean water, KDHE is positioned with strong staff, programs, and authorities to meet those challenges now and in the future. We are thankful for our partnership with Region 7, working together to improve and protect the water of Kansas in the manner intended by this Act 50 years ago.”
“With great appreciation, we welcome this investment that will help sustain infrastructure designed to keep clean water on “tap” for a variety of uses in Kansas for years to come,” said Garner.
Attendees also included partner organizations and community members who have collaborated through the years to clean up the Kansas and Missouri rivers and increase recreational access to these waters. EPA Region 7 bestowed certificates of appreciation to Larry O’Donnell, Little Blue River Watershed Coalition, and Vicki Richmond, Healthy Rivers Partnership, and concluded the event with a river cleanup.
Background
Five decades of Clean Water Act implementation have reduced direct pollution discharges to our nation’s waters and improved wastewater and stormwater infrastructure. This progress was built on strong partnerships between EPA, and state, local, and tribal governments, as well as community and environmental organizations, industry, and agriculture.
As EPA continues its national tour celebrating the Clean Water Act, the Agency is also collaborating with its partners to chart a course for the next 50 years of progress for clean water. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has provided a historic investment in water infrastructure, including $12.7 billion through the SRF programs established by the 1987 amendments to the Clean Water Act.
Leading up to the 50th anniversary on Oct. 18, the national tour highlights waters essential to healthy people, vibrant ecosystems, agricultural productivity, and economic growth. Other stops include Puget Sound, Florida Everglades, Chesapeake Bay, Great Lakes, Cuyahoga River, and more.
# # #
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“When Congress passed the Clean Water Act in 1972, with an overwhelming bipartisan majority, it charted a new path for America’s waters,” said Fox. “In the past 50 years, the Missouri and Kansas rivers, along with other treasured waterways nationally, have been transformed into spaces that drive economic growth, environmental health, and recreational access. Looking forward, we have a unique opportunity to continue protecting these rivers and invest in Kansas’ water infrastructure through the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.”
During the event at Kaw Point Park in Kansas City, Kansas, the EPA leaders presented an $80 million big check to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment for their State Revolving Fund (SRF). The award marks the state’s first SRF distribution funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This new funding brings Kansas’ total for the year to nearly $100 million, and is the first of five annual distributions to the state from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
“The Heartland is connected by big rivers, with the Missouri River – the longest in North America – flowing through Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska,” said McCollister. “Today, we celebrate the Clean Water Act successes that have transformed our rivers into places of recreation, the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding that will allow us to continue our water protections, and the community organizations that are integral to keeping our river access points clean.”
U.S. Representative Sharice Davids (KS-3); Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Deputy Secretary for Environment Leo Henning; Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, Mayor and CEO Tyrone A. Garner; and local partners joined EPA to reflect on the progress under the Clean Water Act and the promise of Kansas’ historic SRF award.
“From the water in our tap to the rain in our gutters, water infrastructure touches many parts of our lives. Most people don’t always realize how important those systems are until they fail, but it’s our responsibility to ensure they never get to that point,” said Davids. “I am glad to welcome funding from the bipartisan infrastructure bill to help deliver cleaner drinking water, safer stormwater systems, and better wastewater management to our communities.”
“Kansas has taken its responsibility in implementing the Clean Water Act seriously since its inception in 1972,” said Henning. “We have made significant investments in our wastewater infrastructure, which grants such as this one today from EPA have made possible. As a rural state, we have had to be innovative in incentivizing management practices to reduce pollutants coming off of ag lands during runoff. While emerging issues always loom on the horizon of clean water, KDHE is positioned with strong staff, programs, and authorities to meet those challenges now and in the future. We are thankful for our partnership with Region 7, working together to improve and protect the water of Kansas in the manner intended by this Act 50 years ago.”
“With great appreciation, we welcome this investment that will help sustain infrastructure designed to keep clean water on “tap” for a variety of uses in Kansas for years to come,” said Garner.
Attendees also included partner organizations and community members who have collaborated through the years to clean up the Kansas and Missouri rivers and increase recreational access to these waters. EPA Region 7 bestowed certificates of appreciation to Larry O’Donnell, Little Blue River Watershed Coalition, and Vicki Richmond, Healthy Rivers Partnership, and concluded the event with a river cleanup.
Background
Five decades of Clean Water Act implementation have reduced direct pollution discharges to our nation’s waters and improved wastewater and stormwater infrastructure. This progress was built on strong partnerships between EPA, and state, local, and tribal governments, as well as community and environmental organizations, industry, and agriculture.
As EPA continues its national tour celebrating the Clean Water Act, the Agency is also collaborating with its partners to chart a course for the next 50 years of progress for clean water. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has provided a historic investment in water infrastructure, including $12.7 billion through the SRF programs established by the 1987 amendments to the Clean Water Act.
Leading up to the 50th anniversary on Oct. 18, the national tour highlights waters essential to healthy people, vibrant ecosystems, agricultural productivity, and economic growth. Other stops include Puget Sound, Florida Everglades, Chesapeake Bay, Great Lakes, Cuyahoga River, and more.
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EPA Awards $6.4M for Research to Support National Water Reuse Efforts
WASHINGTON - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced research grants totaling $6.4 million to Iowa State University and the Water Research Foundation for research to support national efforts to reduce technological and institutional barriers for expanded water reuse.
“Safe and reliable water is critical to protecting public health, and innovative solutions for reusing water can improve water availability and access across the nation,” said Chris Frey, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “These research projects will help advance water reuse applications so communities, local and state governments, and Tribes can provide alternatives to existing water resources.”
Water reuse is the practice of reclaiming water from a variety of sources, treating it, and reusing it for beneficial purposes. It can provide alternative supplies for potable and non-potable uses to enhance water security, sustainability, and resilience. These research grants will help accelerate water innovation, information availability, and engagement. The funding will advance clean and safe water reuse goals, promote a better understanding of the nation’s water and wastewater treatment and infrastructure, and enhance the availability and efficient use of water resources through water reuse.
The following institutions are receiving awards:
Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, to integrate technological, institutional and regulatory decision-making processes to accelerate water reuse adoption by addressing issues in water quality and availability in small, underserved communities.
The Water Research Foundation, Denver, Colo., to quantify water reuse potential across the nation while aiming to reduce biological and chemical health risk and provide stakeholders with user-friendly tools and materials to advance water reuse in communities both technologically and organizationally.
Learn more information about the projects.
Learn more about EPA research grants.
“Safe and reliable water is critical to protecting public health, and innovative solutions for reusing water can improve water availability and access across the nation,” said Chris Frey, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “These research projects will help advance water reuse applications so communities, local and state governments, and Tribes can provide alternatives to existing water resources.”
Water reuse is the practice of reclaiming water from a variety of sources, treating it, and reusing it for beneficial purposes. It can provide alternative supplies for potable and non-potable uses to enhance water security, sustainability, and resilience. These research grants will help accelerate water innovation, information availability, and engagement. The funding will advance clean and safe water reuse goals, promote a better understanding of the nation’s water and wastewater treatment and infrastructure, and enhance the availability and efficient use of water resources through water reuse.
The following institutions are receiving awards:
Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, to integrate technological, institutional and regulatory decision-making processes to accelerate water reuse adoption by addressing issues in water quality and availability in small, underserved communities.
The Water Research Foundation, Denver, Colo., to quantify water reuse potential across the nation while aiming to reduce biological and chemical health risk and provide stakeholders with user-friendly tools and materials to advance water reuse in communities both technologically and organizationally.
Learn more information about the projects.
Learn more about EPA research grants.
EPA Awards $3.2M Research Grant to Iowa State University
LENEXA, KAN. (OCT. 5, 2022) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a $3.2 million research grant to Iowa State University to fund research that will support national efforts to reduce technological and institutional barriers for expanded water reuse.
“As we celebrate the Clean Water Act’s 50th Anniversary this month, we are proud to announce a research grant that will expand water reuse adoption efforts in Iowa,” said EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister. “We’re looking forward to seeing the research performed by Iowa State University resulting in expanded water reuse and an increase in water quality and availability in underserved communities.”
This grant will enable university researchers to integrate technological, institutional, and regulatory decision-making processes to accelerate water reuse adoption by addressing issues in water quality and availability in small, rural communities.
The Water Research Foundation in Denver also received a grant through the Water Innovation, Science and Engagement to Advance Water Reuse Research Funding Opportunity. The total funding for these research grants is $6.4 million.
“Safe and reliable water is critical to protecting public health, and innovative solutions for reusing water can improve water availability and access across the nation,” said Chris Frey, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “These research projects will help advance water reuse applications so communities, local and state governments, and tribes can provide alternatives to existing water resources.”
Water reuse is the practice of reclaiming water from a variety of sources, treating it, and reusing it for beneficial purposes. It can provide alternative supplies for potable and non-potable uses to enhance water security, sustainability, and resilience. These research grants will help accelerate water innovation, information availability, and engagement. The funding will advance clean and safe water reuse goals, promote a better understanding of the nation’s water and wastewater treatment and infrastructure, and enhance the availability and efficient use of water resources through water reuse.
Learn more about the projects. Learn more about EPA research grants.
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Learn more about EPA Region 7
View all Region 7 news releases
Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter: @EPARegion7
“As we celebrate the Clean Water Act’s 50th Anniversary this month, we are proud to announce a research grant that will expand water reuse adoption efforts in Iowa,” said EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister. “We’re looking forward to seeing the research performed by Iowa State University resulting in expanded water reuse and an increase in water quality and availability in underserved communities.”
This grant will enable university researchers to integrate technological, institutional, and regulatory decision-making processes to accelerate water reuse adoption by addressing issues in water quality and availability in small, rural communities.
The Water Research Foundation in Denver also received a grant through the Water Innovation, Science and Engagement to Advance Water Reuse Research Funding Opportunity. The total funding for these research grants is $6.4 million.
“Safe and reliable water is critical to protecting public health, and innovative solutions for reusing water can improve water availability and access across the nation,” said Chris Frey, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “These research projects will help advance water reuse applications so communities, local and state governments, and tribes can provide alternatives to existing water resources.”
Water reuse is the practice of reclaiming water from a variety of sources, treating it, and reusing it for beneficial purposes. It can provide alternative supplies for potable and non-potable uses to enhance water security, sustainability, and resilience. These research grants will help accelerate water innovation, information availability, and engagement. The funding will advance clean and safe water reuse goals, promote a better understanding of the nation’s water and wastewater treatment and infrastructure, and enhance the availability and efficient use of water resources through water reuse.
Learn more about the projects. Learn more about EPA research grants.
# # #
Learn more about EPA Region 7
View all Region 7 news releases
Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter: @EPARegion7