Biden-Harris Administration Invests in Clean, More Affordable Energy for Seven Rural Electric Cooperatives from South Carolina to Colorado as Part of Investing in America Agenda
Westminster, Colo., Oct. 25, 2024 – Today Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced more than $3 billion through the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Empowering Rural America (New ERA) Program to lower electricity costs as part of President Biden and Vice President Harris’ Investing in America Agenda.
EPA announces public comment period for a NPDES permit modification for Ocean Era off the Florida coast
SARASOTA, Fla. (October 25, 2024) – Today, The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 4 (EPA) is announcing the release of a draft modification to a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit previously issued to Ocean Era, Inc. (Ocean Era), for a small-scale marine aquaculture facility approximately 45 miles from Sarasota, off the coast of Florida, in federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The draft modification will be subject to a 30-day public comment period.
EPA issued a NPDES permit to Ocean Era in 2022 that allows the discharge of wastewater from an Aquatic Animal Production Facility producing up to 80,000 pounds/year for one production cycle. The Facility is not yet operating and has not yet been constructed. Information regarding the 2022 permit issuance can be accessed at www.epa.gov/npdes-permits/ocean-era-inc-velella-epsilon-aquatic-animal-production-facility-national-pollutant.
In 2023, Ocean Era submitted a request for permit modification indicating that it will not proceed with the aquaculture project as currently permitted because it intends to make changes to certain aspects of the operation. Specifically, Ocean Era has requested to: 1) change the cultured fish species (from almaco jack to red drum); 2) change the cage net material (from copper to monofilament); and 3) change the type of rearing system (from swivel point mooring system to a stationary cage mooring system).Many communities that are under economic stress, particularly those located in areas that have experienced long periods of disinvestment, lack the resources needed to initiate brownfield cleanup and redevelopment projects. As brownfield sites are transformed into community assets, they attract jobs, promote economic revitalization and transform communities into sustainable and environmentally just places.
EPA has made a tentative determination to modify the permit based on the project alterations and new information received from Ocean Era. On October 24, 2024, EPA public noticed the draft modified permit package on Regulations.gov. EPA is taking comments for a minimum of 30-days on the draft modified permit through Regulations.gov using Docket ID EPA–R04-OW-2024-0113. EPA notes that in the case of a permit modification, only the permit conditions that are proposed to be modified are reopened and subject to public comment. The draft modified permit and other supporting documents can also be accessed on EPA’s website at www.epa.gov/publicnotices/ocean-era-draft-modified-npdes-permit-fl0a00001.
For more information on EPA’s NPDES Program visit EPA’s NPDES webpage.
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EPA issued a NPDES permit to Ocean Era in 2022 that allows the discharge of wastewater from an Aquatic Animal Production Facility producing up to 80,000 pounds/year for one production cycle. The Facility is not yet operating and has not yet been constructed. Information regarding the 2022 permit issuance can be accessed at www.epa.gov/npdes-permits/ocean-era-inc-velella-epsilon-aquatic-animal-production-facility-national-pollutant.
In 2023, Ocean Era submitted a request for permit modification indicating that it will not proceed with the aquaculture project as currently permitted because it intends to make changes to certain aspects of the operation. Specifically, Ocean Era has requested to: 1) change the cultured fish species (from almaco jack to red drum); 2) change the cage net material (from copper to monofilament); and 3) change the type of rearing system (from swivel point mooring system to a stationary cage mooring system).Many communities that are under economic stress, particularly those located in areas that have experienced long periods of disinvestment, lack the resources needed to initiate brownfield cleanup and redevelopment projects. As brownfield sites are transformed into community assets, they attract jobs, promote economic revitalization and transform communities into sustainable and environmentally just places.
EPA has made a tentative determination to modify the permit based on the project alterations and new information received from Ocean Era. On October 24, 2024, EPA public noticed the draft modified permit package on Regulations.gov. EPA is taking comments for a minimum of 30-days on the draft modified permit through Regulations.gov using Docket ID EPA–R04-OW-2024-0113. EPA notes that in the case of a permit modification, only the permit conditions that are proposed to be modified are reopened and subject to public comment. The draft modified permit and other supporting documents can also be accessed on EPA’s website at www.epa.gov/publicnotices/ocean-era-draft-modified-npdes-permit-fl0a00001.
For more information on EPA’s NPDES Program visit EPA’s NPDES webpage.
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EPA prevents chemical accident Consent Agreement and Final Order issued to protect Dudley, MA
BOSTON (Oct. 25, 2024) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Agency (EPA) announced a settlement of its administrative penalty and compliance case against Shield Packaging Company in Dudley, Mass. for alleged violations of the chemical accident prevention and preparedness provisions of Clean Air Act.
The company, an aerosol products manufacturing operation, was issued an EPA compliance order in November of 2023 to correct alleged violations of the Clean Air Act's Risk Management Program and General Duty Clause, which were identified after EPA's August 2021 inspection. The company has been complying with the compliance order, and under the recent settlement, will pay a penalty of $219,500.
"Workers and those living near businesses have a right to be free of worry about chemical accidents. Facilities storing and handling extremely hazardous substances must remain compliant with the laws and requirements to keep workers and neighbors safe," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "EPA will continue to enforce regulations that protect communities and prevent harmful accidents."
Background
On August 4, 2021, representatives from EPA Region 1 conducted an announced inspection at the facility to assess compliance with the requirements of Clean Air Act (CAA) Section 112(r), including the Risk Management Regulations (RMP) and other federal environmental laws and regulations.
Shield Packaging Co. provided various information and documents to EPA both during and after the inspection. EPA issued an administrative notice of violation and compliance order to the company in November of 2023 for many, but not all, of the following violations that EPA subsequently included in the penalty:
CAA 112(r) Risk Management Regulations and Process Hazard Analysis Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.67): Shield Packaging Co. violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to timely update its Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) for the facility's processes that involve flammable chemical propellants. PHAs are important to help a facility analyze potential causes and effects of a chemical release and help prevent them. RMP regulations require PHAs to be updated at least every five years.
CAA 112(r) RMP Compliance Audit Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.79): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to timely audit the company's compliance with the RMP requirements. The company is required to evaluate its compliance with these requirements at least every three years and produce an audit report to verify that procedures and practices developed under RMP regulations are adequate and are being followed at the Facility. The report must also respond to the identified deficiencies at the Facility and document that they have been corrected.
CAA 112(r) RMP Mechanical Integrity Procedures Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.73): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to establish mechanical integrity procedures for its tanks that store chemical propellants. The company is required to establish and implement written procedures to maintain the ongoing integrity of its process equipment. The company's 2018 Compliance Audit Checklist revealed that the Facility had no written plan to maintain the mechanical integrity of its process equipment.
CAA Section 112(r) RMP Training Procedures Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.71): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to train the employees involved in certain operating processes and document the training.
CAA Section 112(r) RMP Emergency Planning and Response Action Plan Violation (40 C.F.R. §§ 68.90 and 68.95): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to establish an adequate emergency planning and response action program which is important for a facility to have in case of an accidental release of any flammable gases.
CAA Section 112(r) RMP Operating Procedures Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.69): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to annually recertify its written operating procedures. The operating procedures also lacked essential precautions to prevent exposure to chemicals, such as a requirement to use personal protective equipment or including gas detection.
A copy of the Final Consent Agreement and Final order is available upon request.
The company, an aerosol products manufacturing operation, was issued an EPA compliance order in November of 2023 to correct alleged violations of the Clean Air Act's Risk Management Program and General Duty Clause, which were identified after EPA's August 2021 inspection. The company has been complying with the compliance order, and under the recent settlement, will pay a penalty of $219,500.
"Workers and those living near businesses have a right to be free of worry about chemical accidents. Facilities storing and handling extremely hazardous substances must remain compliant with the laws and requirements to keep workers and neighbors safe," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "EPA will continue to enforce regulations that protect communities and prevent harmful accidents."
Background
On August 4, 2021, representatives from EPA Region 1 conducted an announced inspection at the facility to assess compliance with the requirements of Clean Air Act (CAA) Section 112(r), including the Risk Management Regulations (RMP) and other federal environmental laws and regulations.
Shield Packaging Co. provided various information and documents to EPA both during and after the inspection. EPA issued an administrative notice of violation and compliance order to the company in November of 2023 for many, but not all, of the following violations that EPA subsequently included in the penalty:
CAA 112(r) Risk Management Regulations and Process Hazard Analysis Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.67): Shield Packaging Co. violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to timely update its Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) for the facility's processes that involve flammable chemical propellants. PHAs are important to help a facility analyze potential causes and effects of a chemical release and help prevent them. RMP regulations require PHAs to be updated at least every five years.
CAA 112(r) RMP Compliance Audit Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.79): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to timely audit the company's compliance with the RMP requirements. The company is required to evaluate its compliance with these requirements at least every three years and produce an audit report to verify that procedures and practices developed under RMP regulations are adequate and are being followed at the Facility. The report must also respond to the identified deficiencies at the Facility and document that they have been corrected.
CAA 112(r) RMP Mechanical Integrity Procedures Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.73): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to establish mechanical integrity procedures for its tanks that store chemical propellants. The company is required to establish and implement written procedures to maintain the ongoing integrity of its process equipment. The company's 2018 Compliance Audit Checklist revealed that the Facility had no written plan to maintain the mechanical integrity of its process equipment.
CAA Section 112(r) RMP Training Procedures Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.71): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to train the employees involved in certain operating processes and document the training.
CAA Section 112(r) RMP Emergency Planning and Response Action Plan Violation (40 C.F.R. §§ 68.90 and 68.95): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to establish an adequate emergency planning and response action program which is important for a facility to have in case of an accidental release of any flammable gases.
CAA Section 112(r) RMP Operating Procedures Violation (40 C.F.R. § 68.69): Shield Packaging Company violated CAA Section 112(r) RMP requirements by failing to annually recertify its written operating procedures. The operating procedures also lacked essential precautions to prevent exposure to chemicals, such as a requirement to use personal protective equipment or including gas detection.
A copy of the Final Consent Agreement and Final order is available upon request.
EPA Awards $400,000 to Greenlife Tech Corporation in North Carolina for Developing Environmental Technologies
RALEIGH, N.C. – Today, October 25, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced $2.8 million in funding to seven small businesses to further develop and commercialize their environmental technologies. With these awards from EPA’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, businesses will be tackling complex challenges including destroying PFAS, cleaning indoor air during wildfires, enhancing recycling systems, reducing food waste, and improving disaster response.
Greenlife Tech Corporation of Banner Elk, North Carolina was selected for its development of an autonomous system that controls oxygen levels in refrigerators to preserve produce for a longer time. The company will receive about $400,000 to continue development of this technology.
“Congratulations to these small businesses for continuing to pursue innovative solutions to some of our most pressing environmental challenges,” said Maureen Gwinn, Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “EPA is proud to invest in these small businesses as they work to help protect human health and the environment across many sectors and help grow the American economy.”
“We congratulate Greenlife Tech Corporation for developing this promising new technology to prevent and reduce food waste, which is a significant problem in our country and the world,” said acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle of EPA’s Southeast Region. “In 2015, EPA and our sister agency USDA announced a goal to reduce food waste in the U.S. by 50 percent by 2030. New technologies, like this refrigeration technique developed by Greenlife Tech, will help us achieve this important goal.”
For over 40 years, EPA’s SBIR program has funded small businesses as they create environmental technologies and bring them to the marketplace. SBIR projects are funded in a phased approach. For Phase I, EPA awards contracts of up to $100,000 for six months for “proof of concept” of the proposed technology. Small businesses that have received a Phase I award can compete for a Phase II award of $400,000 to further develop and commercialize the technology.
Six other businesses selected nationwide for this award are receiving about $400,000 each in SBIR Phase II awards for the following projects:
DiPole Materials, Inc., Baltimore, Maryland, to design a biodegradable filter made of electro-spun nanofibers to clean indoor air during wildfires.
Fourth State LLC, Ann Arbor, Michigan, for a plasma treatment technology to destroy PFAS in complex water matrices.
Holochip Corporation, Torrance, California, to build an artificial intelligence application to map sites to improve the safety and efficacy of disaster response.
KLAW Industries LLC, Binghamton, New York, to produce a rapidly deployable, autonomous robotic sorting system to improve recycling facilities in disadvantaged communities.
Valis Insights, Inc., Worcester, Massachusetts, to develop an automated and AI-driven technology that helps optimize the sorting process for metals recycling.
Water Illumination, Inc., Riverside, California, to create a novel chemical-free UV based PFAS destruction technology for saline wastewater treatment.
Learn more about the winning projects.
Learn more about EPA’s SBIR program.
Learn more about SBIR.
Learn more about food waste and efforts to prevent it.
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Greenlife Tech Corporation of Banner Elk, North Carolina was selected for its development of an autonomous system that controls oxygen levels in refrigerators to preserve produce for a longer time. The company will receive about $400,000 to continue development of this technology.
“Congratulations to these small businesses for continuing to pursue innovative solutions to some of our most pressing environmental challenges,” said Maureen Gwinn, Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “EPA is proud to invest in these small businesses as they work to help protect human health and the environment across many sectors and help grow the American economy.”
“We congratulate Greenlife Tech Corporation for developing this promising new technology to prevent and reduce food waste, which is a significant problem in our country and the world,” said acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle of EPA’s Southeast Region. “In 2015, EPA and our sister agency USDA announced a goal to reduce food waste in the U.S. by 50 percent by 2030. New technologies, like this refrigeration technique developed by Greenlife Tech, will help us achieve this important goal.”
For over 40 years, EPA’s SBIR program has funded small businesses as they create environmental technologies and bring them to the marketplace. SBIR projects are funded in a phased approach. For Phase I, EPA awards contracts of up to $100,000 for six months for “proof of concept” of the proposed technology. Small businesses that have received a Phase I award can compete for a Phase II award of $400,000 to further develop and commercialize the technology.
Six other businesses selected nationwide for this award are receiving about $400,000 each in SBIR Phase II awards for the following projects:
DiPole Materials, Inc., Baltimore, Maryland, to design a biodegradable filter made of electro-spun nanofibers to clean indoor air during wildfires.
Fourth State LLC, Ann Arbor, Michigan, for a plasma treatment technology to destroy PFAS in complex water matrices.
Holochip Corporation, Torrance, California, to build an artificial intelligence application to map sites to improve the safety and efficacy of disaster response.
KLAW Industries LLC, Binghamton, New York, to produce a rapidly deployable, autonomous robotic sorting system to improve recycling facilities in disadvantaged communities.
Valis Insights, Inc., Worcester, Massachusetts, to develop an automated and AI-driven technology that helps optimize the sorting process for metals recycling.
Water Illumination, Inc., Riverside, California, to create a novel chemical-free UV based PFAS destruction technology for saline wastewater treatment.
Learn more about the winning projects.
Learn more about EPA’s SBIR program.
Learn more about SBIR.
Learn more about food waste and efforts to prevent it.
###
EPA Awards $2.8 Million to Small Businesses for Developing Environmental Technologies
WASHINGTON – Today, October 25, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced $2.8 million in funding to seven small businesses to further develop and commercialize their environmental technologies. With these awards from EPA’s Small Business Innovation Research program, businesses will be tackling complex challenges including destroying PFAS, cleaning indoor air during wildfires, enhancing recycling systems, reducing food waste, and improving disaster response.
“Congratulations to these small businesses for continuing to pursue innovative solutions to some of our most pressing environmental challenges,” said Maureen Gwinn, Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “EPA is proud to invest in these small businesses as they work to help protect human health and the environment across many sectors and help grow the American economy.”
For over 40 years, EPA’s SBIR program has funded small businesses as they create environmental technologies and bring them to the marketplace. SBIR projects are funded in a phased approach. For Phase I, EPA awards contracts of up to $100,000 for six months for “proof of concept” of the proposed technology. Small businesses that have received a Phase I award can compete for a Phase II award of $400,000 to further develop and commercialize the technology.
The following businesses are receiving about $400,000 each in SBIR Phase II awards for these projects:
DiPole Materials, Inc., Baltimore, Maryland, to design a biodegradable filter made of electro-spun nanofibers to clean indoor air during wildfires.
Fourth State LLC, Ann Arbor, Michigan, for a plasma treatment technology to destroy PFAS in complex water matrices.
GreenLife Tech Corporation, Banner Elk, North Carolina, for an autonomous system that controls oxygen levels in refrigerators to preserve produce for a longer time.
Holochip Corporation, Torrance, California, to build an artificial intelligence application to map sites to improve the safety and efficacy of disaster response.
KLAW Industries LLC, Binghamton, New York, to produce a rapidly deployable, autonomous robotic sorting system to improve recycling facilities in disadvantaged communities.
Valis Insights, Inc., Worcester, Massachusetts, to develop an automated and AI-driven technology that helps optimize the sorting process for metals recycling.
Water Illumination, Inc., Riverside, California, to create a novel chemical-free UV based PFAS destruction technology for saline wastewater treatment.
Learn more about the winning projects.
Learn more about EPA’s SBIR program.
Learn more about SBIR.
“Congratulations to these small businesses for continuing to pursue innovative solutions to some of our most pressing environmental challenges,” said Maureen Gwinn, Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “EPA is proud to invest in these small businesses as they work to help protect human health and the environment across many sectors and help grow the American economy.”
For over 40 years, EPA’s SBIR program has funded small businesses as they create environmental technologies and bring them to the marketplace. SBIR projects are funded in a phased approach. For Phase I, EPA awards contracts of up to $100,000 for six months for “proof of concept” of the proposed technology. Small businesses that have received a Phase I award can compete for a Phase II award of $400,000 to further develop and commercialize the technology.
The following businesses are receiving about $400,000 each in SBIR Phase II awards for these projects:
DiPole Materials, Inc., Baltimore, Maryland, to design a biodegradable filter made of electro-spun nanofibers to clean indoor air during wildfires.
Fourth State LLC, Ann Arbor, Michigan, for a plasma treatment technology to destroy PFAS in complex water matrices.
GreenLife Tech Corporation, Banner Elk, North Carolina, for an autonomous system that controls oxygen levels in refrigerators to preserve produce for a longer time.
Holochip Corporation, Torrance, California, to build an artificial intelligence application to map sites to improve the safety and efficacy of disaster response.
KLAW Industries LLC, Binghamton, New York, to produce a rapidly deployable, autonomous robotic sorting system to improve recycling facilities in disadvantaged communities.
Valis Insights, Inc., Worcester, Massachusetts, to develop an automated and AI-driven technology that helps optimize the sorting process for metals recycling.
Water Illumination, Inc., Riverside, California, to create a novel chemical-free UV based PFAS destruction technology for saline wastewater treatment.
Learn more about the winning projects.
Learn more about EPA’s SBIR program.
Learn more about SBIR.
EPA’s Thriving Communities program brings funding opportunities to Portsmouth
PHILADELPHIA (Oct. 25, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), along with the Green & Healthy Homes Initiative (GHHI) and Virginia State University, hosted an event in Portsmouth, Virginia, on Oct. 24 to help local community-based organizations access federal funding through the EPA’s Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program.
The event provided about 30 attendees from Portsmouth’s local nonprofits and government with information on applying for federal funding and requesting technical assistance to address environmental justice in the Portsmouth community.
“The Biden-Harris Administration empowers community leaders by providing them with the resources they need to drive meaningful change,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “By working with partners and local leaders here in Portsmouth, we make sure these grants benefit the communities that need them most and support projects that protect human health and the environment.”
Alexander Mandell, EPA Mid-Atlantic Region Environmental Justice Coordinator, speaks to community and nonprofit leaders during an Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program information meeting in Portsmouth, Virginia, Oct. 24, 2024.
The EPA’s Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program aims to help underserved and overburdened communities by making it easier for nonprofits to receive federal funding for local initiatives that address environmental and public health issues.
GHHI, serving as the Mid-Atlantic region’s Grantmaker, shared information with the Portsmouth community on how to apply for sub-grants, eligibility criteria, and available support for successful project applications.
“GHHI’s Thriving Communities Grantmaking program provides an unprecedented opportunity to leverage the investments made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act to make tangible and transformative differences in communities throughout EPA Region 3,” said Green & Healthy Homes Initiative President and CEO Ruth Ann Norton. “We are actively accepting applications to fund projects that build community-based capacity and advance environmental justice. We know there is a significant need in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area to address toxic waste and hazardous air pollutants that have disproportionately affected low-income communities in the region. The Thriving Communities grant program can help community-based EJ organizations advance their missions to create cleaner, greener, safer, and more equitable neighborhoods.”
Virginia State University is a partner for the program and supported the event by providing resources to attendees and making sure the appropriate Portsmouth communities were part of the discussion.
“This event is an opportunity for VSU to build upon its commitment to empower citizens of the Commonwealth to access resources and opportunities that improve their communities and livelihoods,” said Virginia State University Department of Agriculture’s Assistant Professor Neil Brown.
The two-hour event included presentations and a Q&A session that provided a better understanding of how to leverage federal resources for projects that will reduce pollution, improve health, and foster sustainability.
The EPA’s Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program is a national program that provides at least $600 million to address environmental justice and public health issues in underserved communities across the nation. The program has partnerships with 11 Grantmakers nationwide that work with nonprofits to support capacity building, increase efficiency, reduce barriers to federal funding, and encourage meaningful involvement.
Learn more about the EPA’s Environmental Justice efforts.
Learn more about GHHI’s Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program.
The event provided about 30 attendees from Portsmouth’s local nonprofits and government with information on applying for federal funding and requesting technical assistance to address environmental justice in the Portsmouth community.
“The Biden-Harris Administration empowers community leaders by providing them with the resources they need to drive meaningful change,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “By working with partners and local leaders here in Portsmouth, we make sure these grants benefit the communities that need them most and support projects that protect human health and the environment.”
Alexander Mandell, EPA Mid-Atlantic Region Environmental Justice Coordinator, speaks to community and nonprofit leaders during an Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program information meeting in Portsmouth, Virginia, Oct. 24, 2024.
The EPA’s Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program aims to help underserved and overburdened communities by making it easier for nonprofits to receive federal funding for local initiatives that address environmental and public health issues.
GHHI, serving as the Mid-Atlantic region’s Grantmaker, shared information with the Portsmouth community on how to apply for sub-grants, eligibility criteria, and available support for successful project applications.
“GHHI’s Thriving Communities Grantmaking program provides an unprecedented opportunity to leverage the investments made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act to make tangible and transformative differences in communities throughout EPA Region 3,” said Green & Healthy Homes Initiative President and CEO Ruth Ann Norton. “We are actively accepting applications to fund projects that build community-based capacity and advance environmental justice. We know there is a significant need in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area to address toxic waste and hazardous air pollutants that have disproportionately affected low-income communities in the region. The Thriving Communities grant program can help community-based EJ organizations advance their missions to create cleaner, greener, safer, and more equitable neighborhoods.”
Virginia State University is a partner for the program and supported the event by providing resources to attendees and making sure the appropriate Portsmouth communities were part of the discussion.
“This event is an opportunity for VSU to build upon its commitment to empower citizens of the Commonwealth to access resources and opportunities that improve their communities and livelihoods,” said Virginia State University Department of Agriculture’s Assistant Professor Neil Brown.
The two-hour event included presentations and a Q&A session that provided a better understanding of how to leverage federal resources for projects that will reduce pollution, improve health, and foster sustainability.
The EPA’s Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program is a national program that provides at least $600 million to address environmental justice and public health issues in underserved communities across the nation. The program has partnerships with 11 Grantmakers nationwide that work with nonprofits to support capacity building, increase efficiency, reduce barriers to federal funding, and encourage meaningful involvement.
Learn more about the EPA’s Environmental Justice efforts.
Learn more about GHHI’s Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program.
EPA announces over $1 million in new awards to advance climate resilience in disadvantaged communities across Rhode Island and Southeast Massachusetts
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Oct. 25, 2024) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced over $1 million in new awards through the Southeast New England Program (SNEP) Opportunity to Advance Resilience (SOAR) Fund. Joined by U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo, and state and local partners, the EPA celebrated the new awards, as well as awards from the first round of funding. With today's announcement, that brings the total awarded through the EPA's SOAR Fund to $2.3 million.
The SOAR Fund streamlines the federal grant process and encourages new applicants and community-based organizations to apply. Made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA has committed to investing a minimum of $5 million through the SOAR Fund to disadvantaged communities by 2027. This funding reaffirms EPA's commitment to advancing environmental justice under the Biden-Harris Administration's Justice40 initiative.
To date, EPA's SOAR Fund has awarded $2.3 million for nine projects across eight disadvantaged communities in Rhode Island and Southeast Massachusetts, including to three first-time applicants.
"Everyone deserves the opportunity to live in a community that is safe, healthy, and resilient, no matter their zip code or how much they earn," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, we are breaking down barriers to federal funding and empowering communities across Southeast New England to develop and lead climate solutions tailored to their unique needs. By working directly with communities who need it most, we are addressing inequities, improving environmental conditions in the places we live, work, and play; and together strengthening our region's ability to respond to the challenges of a changing climate."
"I created the Southeast New England Program to foster collaboration and invest in solutions that help restore and preserve Narragansett Bay and other regional watersheds," said U.S. Senator Jack Reed, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. "This federal funding for four innovative projects will help boost resilience in communities that are impacted by the worsening effects of climate change while also building and strengthening a workforce who can continue this important work for years to come."
"The frontline communities most affected by climate change too often have the fewest resources to deal with the fallout," said U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (RI). "This new investment in environmental justice from our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will support jobs, improve resiliency, and make climate solutions more accessible in communities across the state."
"In Massachusetts and across the country, underserved communities are on the frontlines of the climate crisis," said U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (MA). "This federal investment will lift up those communities and train the next generation of climate leaders in Southeastern Massachusetts to make sure they're strong and resilient in the face of the growing climate crisis."
"I am proud to have fought for the landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that's investing in disadvantaged communities on the frontlines of climate change to realize their own climate resiliency solutions—solutions developed by and for their own communities," said U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey (MA). "These federal dollars will help Groundwork Southcoast develop tomorrow's climate workforce, while tackling the problems in Fall River and New Bedford today. Paying young people for their hard work and expertise from their lived experience is critical for building a workforce that reflects the community in which they work."
"Rhode Island is already feeling the effects of climate change with more frequent flooding, sea level rise and coastal erosion, but the good news is that we can address this issue while creating jobs at the same time," said U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI). "This federal funding will be used for workforce training programs in stormwater management and climate resilience that will particularly benefit Rhode Islanders who live in communities that are vulnerable to climate change."
"For decades, the Southeast New England Program has made a measurable difference towns and cities all across Rhode Island," said Congressman Gabe Amo (RI). "As we work to increase resiliency in communities like Providence, East Providence, Warren and Newport, this federal funding will support people and places that are most vulnerable and stand to benefit most from this support."
"These awards support Rhode Island's efforts to plan for and mitigate climate change while supporting a broad range of community needs," said Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Director Terry Gray. "By developing these important partnerships and community-based solutions to the climate crisis, we can break down barriers so everyone, regardless of where you live in Rhode Island, can live in a safe and healthy environment for generations to come."
The 2024 round of funding announced today awards a total of $1,052,460 to four projects, including two first-time applicants:
Voces Fuertes (Strong Voices) for the Water Table
Award: $300,000 | Grantee: Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council
Location: Providence, RI
This project will deliver training and workforce programs through Nuevas Voces and Campeones de Combate Climático, engaging Spanish-speaking residents in climate leadership and preparedness while creating pipelines to high-wage jobs.
Climate Resiliency Training and Employment to Address Community Needs
Award: $300,000 | Grantee: Groundwork Rhode Island
Location: Providence, RI
In partnership with city agencies, this project will implement two workforce programs: Storm Crew (stormwater management) and Canopy Crew (urban forestry), providing hands-on training and employment opportunities, particularly for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Protecting the Watershed with Trees
Award: $152,460 | Grantee: Newport Tree Conservancy (First-time applicant)
Location: Newport, RI
This initiative will expand tree canopies in Newport's North End and engage residents in stewardship and advocacy to address environmental injustices, improving community well-being and resilience.
Workforce Development for Sustainable Southcoast Communities
Award: $300,000 | Grantee: Groundwork Southcoast (First-time applicant)
Location: New Bedford and Fall River, MA
The Green Corps program will train youth aged 18-26 in green infrastructure and climate solutions, building community resilience through hands-on projects and developing local leadership.
The 2023 previous round of funding awarded a total of $1,274,926 to five projects, including one first-time applicant:
Westerly's Resilient Riverfront Renewal
Award: $300,000 | Grantee: Southern Rhode Island Conservation District
Location: Westerly, RI
This project aims to improve the health of the Pawcatuck River watershed with nature-based stormwater solutions and engage residents in long-term workforce training and environmental stewardship.
Crescent Park Beach Reopening
Award: $300,000 | Grantee: Rhode Island Department of Health
Location: East Providence, RI
This award supports reopening Crescent Park Beach as a public swimming area for the first time in over 100 years, offering safe outdoor recreation during increasingly hot summers.
Understanding Urban Flooding and Finding Solutions
Award: $300,000 | Grantee: City of Providence
Location: Providence, RI
This project will model flood risks in vulnerable neighborhoods and develop mitigation strategies in collaboration with community organizations to build long-term resilience.
Engaging Environmental Justice Communities to Promote Urban Watershed Health
Award: $299,926 (Federal), $72,349 (Match) | Grantee: Massachusetts Audubon Society
Location: Worcester, MA
This project will focus on green infrastructure to reduce flooding, urban heat, and pollution while improving access to green spaces for underserved communities.
Where Climate & Change Meet the Water
Award: $75,000 | Grantee: East Bay Community Action Program (First-time applicant)
Location: Warren, RI
This initiative supports resident participation in the Market to Metacom relocation plan to address sea-level rise, offering workshops, mental health support, and leadership development for those impacted by climate change.
What they are saying
"The Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council (WRWC) is thrilled to be a grant recipient in the 2024 SNEP SOAR program. For two years, this grant will support our deep community engagement and leadership pathway programs, Nuevas Voces (New Voices) and Campeones de Combate Climático (Climate Combat Champions). Program participants are Woonasquatucket residents on the frontlines of climate change issues such as flooding and urban heat island. The program names are in Spanish because our participants are more comfortable with Spanish. SNEP SOAR's investment in these leaders will ensure that informed solutions to these challenges are resident led," said Alicia J. Lehrer, Executive Director of the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council.
"This funding from the EPA is critical to creating spaces where people in Rhode Island can be healthy and safe outdoors, and it is critical to building community resiliency in the face of climate change," said Director of Health Dr. Jerry Larkin, Rhode Island Department of Health. "We thank our federal partners for their continued support, and look forward to all the good that will come of these awards."
"Our administration is always looking at opportunities to bring more amenities to our residents and community. Having a licensed, swimmable beach here at the historic Crescent Park will be wonderful for our residents both young and old to visit and enjoy for generations come," said East Providence Mayor DaSilva.
"Groundwork Rhode Island, along with our partners, Garden Time and the Providence Neighborhood Planting Program, is thrilled to be able to strengthen our workforce development programming focused on climate resilience in Providence, support the City's tree canopy and green infrastructure goals, reduce heat and flooding impacts, and employ local residents for greater environmental and economic justice," said Amelia Rose, Groundwork Rhode Island Executive Director.
"The Southern RI Conservation District and Town of Westerly are grateful for the continued support of the SNEP Network. The SOAR Award allows us to complete the streetscape design, build our maintenance team, and move towards the final construction of a project that started with a SNEP's training series. SNEP has helped our team take aspirational goals from the Town's Comprehensive Plan and turn them into a project that will transform Main St. into a pedestrian friendly, green corridor by using nature-based solutions for managing storm water. Westerly's Resilient Riverfront Renewal project is testament to the power of shared knowledge among partnerships, planning, and the regional approach to achieving environmental goals," said Gina Fuller, District Manager for Southern Rhode Island Conservation District.
"We, at Groundwork Southcoast, are excited about our partnership with SOAR, supporting our Workforce Development for Sustainable Southcoast Communities initiative," said Maura Valdez, Executive Director of Groundwork Southcoast.
"Support from SOAR is an investment in the environmental leadership of local youth and communities, building equity in the south coast of Massachusetts, and will be pivotal to launching our Green Corps program," said Fernando Rodriguez, Programs Director of Groundwork Southcoast.
"The Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary Stream Restoration Project will meet two of our main organizational goals: making our wildlife sanctuaries more climate resilient and increasing access to green space for environmental justice communities. This initial assessment and modeling of ecological restoration practices is critical as it will result in reduced flooding in the Upper Brook watershed and will demonstrate practices relevant for flooding interventions across Worcester. We're grateful to residents, City officials, and our partners for their input and support," said Jenn Madson, Mass Audubon's Central Regional Director.
About SNEP and the SOAR Fund
The SOAR Fund is part of the Southeast New England Program (SNEP), focusing on improving water quality, ecological health, and community resilience. Since 2012, SNEP has provided $67 million in funding and technical assistance to help municipalities, non-profit organizations, state and tribal governments, and other organizations accomplish these goals.
The SOAR Fund was developed to align with the Justice40 initiative by ensuring that 40% of federal investments benefit historically underserved communities. With over $2.3 million awarded so far, SOAR is making climate solutions more accessible by streamlining the grant process.
Applications for the next round of SOAR funding will open in Spring 2025.
For more information on SOAR and future opportunities, visit www.epa.gov/snep.
The SOAR Fund streamlines the federal grant process and encourages new applicants and community-based organizations to apply. Made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA has committed to investing a minimum of $5 million through the SOAR Fund to disadvantaged communities by 2027. This funding reaffirms EPA's commitment to advancing environmental justice under the Biden-Harris Administration's Justice40 initiative.
To date, EPA's SOAR Fund has awarded $2.3 million for nine projects across eight disadvantaged communities in Rhode Island and Southeast Massachusetts, including to three first-time applicants.
"Everyone deserves the opportunity to live in a community that is safe, healthy, and resilient, no matter their zip code or how much they earn," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, we are breaking down barriers to federal funding and empowering communities across Southeast New England to develop and lead climate solutions tailored to their unique needs. By working directly with communities who need it most, we are addressing inequities, improving environmental conditions in the places we live, work, and play; and together strengthening our region's ability to respond to the challenges of a changing climate."
"I created the Southeast New England Program to foster collaboration and invest in solutions that help restore and preserve Narragansett Bay and other regional watersheds," said U.S. Senator Jack Reed, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. "This federal funding for four innovative projects will help boost resilience in communities that are impacted by the worsening effects of climate change while also building and strengthening a workforce who can continue this important work for years to come."
"The frontline communities most affected by climate change too often have the fewest resources to deal with the fallout," said U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (RI). "This new investment in environmental justice from our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will support jobs, improve resiliency, and make climate solutions more accessible in communities across the state."
"In Massachusetts and across the country, underserved communities are on the frontlines of the climate crisis," said U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (MA). "This federal investment will lift up those communities and train the next generation of climate leaders in Southeastern Massachusetts to make sure they're strong and resilient in the face of the growing climate crisis."
"I am proud to have fought for the landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that's investing in disadvantaged communities on the frontlines of climate change to realize their own climate resiliency solutions—solutions developed by and for their own communities," said U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey (MA). "These federal dollars will help Groundwork Southcoast develop tomorrow's climate workforce, while tackling the problems in Fall River and New Bedford today. Paying young people for their hard work and expertise from their lived experience is critical for building a workforce that reflects the community in which they work."
"Rhode Island is already feeling the effects of climate change with more frequent flooding, sea level rise and coastal erosion, but the good news is that we can address this issue while creating jobs at the same time," said U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI). "This federal funding will be used for workforce training programs in stormwater management and climate resilience that will particularly benefit Rhode Islanders who live in communities that are vulnerable to climate change."
"For decades, the Southeast New England Program has made a measurable difference towns and cities all across Rhode Island," said Congressman Gabe Amo (RI). "As we work to increase resiliency in communities like Providence, East Providence, Warren and Newport, this federal funding will support people and places that are most vulnerable and stand to benefit most from this support."
"These awards support Rhode Island's efforts to plan for and mitigate climate change while supporting a broad range of community needs," said Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Director Terry Gray. "By developing these important partnerships and community-based solutions to the climate crisis, we can break down barriers so everyone, regardless of where you live in Rhode Island, can live in a safe and healthy environment for generations to come."
The 2024 round of funding announced today awards a total of $1,052,460 to four projects, including two first-time applicants:
Voces Fuertes (Strong Voices) for the Water Table
Award: $300,000 | Grantee: Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council
Location: Providence, RI
This project will deliver training and workforce programs through Nuevas Voces and Campeones de Combate Climático, engaging Spanish-speaking residents in climate leadership and preparedness while creating pipelines to high-wage jobs.
Climate Resiliency Training and Employment to Address Community Needs
Award: $300,000 | Grantee: Groundwork Rhode Island
Location: Providence, RI
In partnership with city agencies, this project will implement two workforce programs: Storm Crew (stormwater management) and Canopy Crew (urban forestry), providing hands-on training and employment opportunities, particularly for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Protecting the Watershed with Trees
Award: $152,460 | Grantee: Newport Tree Conservancy (First-time applicant)
Location: Newport, RI
This initiative will expand tree canopies in Newport's North End and engage residents in stewardship and advocacy to address environmental injustices, improving community well-being and resilience.
Workforce Development for Sustainable Southcoast Communities
Award: $300,000 | Grantee: Groundwork Southcoast (First-time applicant)
Location: New Bedford and Fall River, MA
The Green Corps program will train youth aged 18-26 in green infrastructure and climate solutions, building community resilience through hands-on projects and developing local leadership.
The 2023 previous round of funding awarded a total of $1,274,926 to five projects, including one first-time applicant:
Westerly's Resilient Riverfront Renewal
Award: $300,000 | Grantee: Southern Rhode Island Conservation District
Location: Westerly, RI
This project aims to improve the health of the Pawcatuck River watershed with nature-based stormwater solutions and engage residents in long-term workforce training and environmental stewardship.
Crescent Park Beach Reopening
Award: $300,000 | Grantee: Rhode Island Department of Health
Location: East Providence, RI
This award supports reopening Crescent Park Beach as a public swimming area for the first time in over 100 years, offering safe outdoor recreation during increasingly hot summers.
Understanding Urban Flooding and Finding Solutions
Award: $300,000 | Grantee: City of Providence
Location: Providence, RI
This project will model flood risks in vulnerable neighborhoods and develop mitigation strategies in collaboration with community organizations to build long-term resilience.
Engaging Environmental Justice Communities to Promote Urban Watershed Health
Award: $299,926 (Federal), $72,349 (Match) | Grantee: Massachusetts Audubon Society
Location: Worcester, MA
This project will focus on green infrastructure to reduce flooding, urban heat, and pollution while improving access to green spaces for underserved communities.
Where Climate & Change Meet the Water
Award: $75,000 | Grantee: East Bay Community Action Program (First-time applicant)
Location: Warren, RI
This initiative supports resident participation in the Market to Metacom relocation plan to address sea-level rise, offering workshops, mental health support, and leadership development for those impacted by climate change.
What they are saying
"The Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council (WRWC) is thrilled to be a grant recipient in the 2024 SNEP SOAR program. For two years, this grant will support our deep community engagement and leadership pathway programs, Nuevas Voces (New Voices) and Campeones de Combate Climático (Climate Combat Champions). Program participants are Woonasquatucket residents on the frontlines of climate change issues such as flooding and urban heat island. The program names are in Spanish because our participants are more comfortable with Spanish. SNEP SOAR's investment in these leaders will ensure that informed solutions to these challenges are resident led," said Alicia J. Lehrer, Executive Director of the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council.
"This funding from the EPA is critical to creating spaces where people in Rhode Island can be healthy and safe outdoors, and it is critical to building community resiliency in the face of climate change," said Director of Health Dr. Jerry Larkin, Rhode Island Department of Health. "We thank our federal partners for their continued support, and look forward to all the good that will come of these awards."
"Our administration is always looking at opportunities to bring more amenities to our residents and community. Having a licensed, swimmable beach here at the historic Crescent Park will be wonderful for our residents both young and old to visit and enjoy for generations come," said East Providence Mayor DaSilva.
"Groundwork Rhode Island, along with our partners, Garden Time and the Providence Neighborhood Planting Program, is thrilled to be able to strengthen our workforce development programming focused on climate resilience in Providence, support the City's tree canopy and green infrastructure goals, reduce heat and flooding impacts, and employ local residents for greater environmental and economic justice," said Amelia Rose, Groundwork Rhode Island Executive Director.
"The Southern RI Conservation District and Town of Westerly are grateful for the continued support of the SNEP Network. The SOAR Award allows us to complete the streetscape design, build our maintenance team, and move towards the final construction of a project that started with a SNEP's training series. SNEP has helped our team take aspirational goals from the Town's Comprehensive Plan and turn them into a project that will transform Main St. into a pedestrian friendly, green corridor by using nature-based solutions for managing storm water. Westerly's Resilient Riverfront Renewal project is testament to the power of shared knowledge among partnerships, planning, and the regional approach to achieving environmental goals," said Gina Fuller, District Manager for Southern Rhode Island Conservation District.
"We, at Groundwork Southcoast, are excited about our partnership with SOAR, supporting our Workforce Development for Sustainable Southcoast Communities initiative," said Maura Valdez, Executive Director of Groundwork Southcoast.
"Support from SOAR is an investment in the environmental leadership of local youth and communities, building equity in the south coast of Massachusetts, and will be pivotal to launching our Green Corps program," said Fernando Rodriguez, Programs Director of Groundwork Southcoast.
"The Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary Stream Restoration Project will meet two of our main organizational goals: making our wildlife sanctuaries more climate resilient and increasing access to green space for environmental justice communities. This initial assessment and modeling of ecological restoration practices is critical as it will result in reduced flooding in the Upper Brook watershed and will demonstrate practices relevant for flooding interventions across Worcester. We're grateful to residents, City officials, and our partners for their input and support," said Jenn Madson, Mass Audubon's Central Regional Director.
About SNEP and the SOAR Fund
The SOAR Fund is part of the Southeast New England Program (SNEP), focusing on improving water quality, ecological health, and community resilience. Since 2012, SNEP has provided $67 million in funding and technical assistance to help municipalities, non-profit organizations, state and tribal governments, and other organizations accomplish these goals.
The SOAR Fund was developed to align with the Justice40 initiative by ensuring that 40% of federal investments benefit historically underserved communities. With over $2.3 million awarded so far, SOAR is making climate solutions more accessible by streamlining the grant process.
Applications for the next round of SOAR funding will open in Spring 2025.
For more information on SOAR and future opportunities, visit www.epa.gov/snep.
FMC continues clawing back per diem charges for shippers
The agency said it has secured more refunds and waivers for shippers in disputes with ocean carriers over detention and demurrage charges, with more investigations pending.