Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that Blacks in Green has been selected to serve as an Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center (EJ TCTAC). Blacks in Green will receive at least $10 million to help communities across Region 5 access funds from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. This includes historic investments to advance environmental justice. 

From day one of his administration, President Biden made achieving environmental justice a top priority. Through the Investing in America agenda, the Biden-Harris Administration will continue to support and strengthen communities that for too long were left out and left behind. Administrator Regan announced the technical assistance centers on the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America tour. 

“We know that so many communities across the nation have the solutions to the environmental challenges they face. Unfortunately, many have lacked access or faced barriers when it comes to the crucial federal resources needed to deliver these solutions,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Today we’re taking another step to break down these barriers. Establishing these Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers across the nation will ensure all communities can access benefits from the President’s historic agenda, which includes groundbreaking investments in clean air, clean water, and our clean energy future.” 

“For far too long, overburdened, underserved, and rural communities have lacked the resources and technical assistance they need from the federal government to overcome barriers critical to their energy needs and create new, long-lasting economic opportunities,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, DOE now has historic levels of new funding to pull from to help revitalize disadvantaged communities across the nation and ensure they’re not left behind in our transition to a clean energy future.” 

“Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act investments, we have an unprecedented opportunity to advance environmental justice and EPA’s Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers will be a critical component to this mission,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “EPA is proud to partner with Blacks in Green to bring these much-needed resources to communities throughout Region 5.” 

“The goal is to flip the script of business as usual with the simple step that no movement for equity can ever thrive without Black, Brown and Indigenous people leading in all matters essential to thriving communities,” said Naomi Davis, founder and CEO of Blacks in Green and creator of the Sustainable Square Mile system. “This award advances the new terms of engagement between frontline organizations and our white allies by honoring our leadership as experts on the ground. This richly needed new normal will create a world that works for everyone, with no one and nothing left out.” 

Blacks in Green is among 17 Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers (EJ TCTACs) the EPA announced to receive a total of more than $177 million to remove barriers and improve accessibility for communities with environmental justice concerns. With this critical investment, these centers will provide training and other assistance to build capacity for navigating federal grant application systems, writing strong grant proposals, and effectively managing grant funding. In addition, these centers will provide guidance on community engagement, meeting facilitation, and translation and interpretation services for limited English-speaking participants, thus removing barriers and improving accessibility for communities with environmental justice concerns. Each of the technical assistance centers will also create and manage communication channels to ensure all communities have direct access to resources and information.  

"We know all too well that the climate crisis disproportionately affects frontline and low-income communities," said Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL). "With the help of this historic federal investment, Blacks in Green can now provide training and assistance to help these communities combat the environmental injustices they've faced for far too long."  

“I want to emphasize how simple this is: no one should have to drink brown water, breathe contaminated air or worry about pollution’s impact on their family’s health,” Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) said. “I’m proud that activists like Blacks in Green are receiving substantial federal support to continue their work of advocating for a cleaner future, especially for the Black, Brown and underserved Americans who unjustly bear the brunt of environmental concerns. As co-founder of the Senate’s first-ever Environmental Justice Caucus, I’ll keep pushing for environmental justice because all Americans deserve clean air, water and land regardless of their zip code, the size of their wallet or the color of their skin.” 

“Illinois EPA is excited to have Blacks in Green as a Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center in Illinois,” said Illinois EPA Director John J. Kim. “Accessing federal and state funding can be a complicated process, and we believe this is an essential resource to help communities access available State Revolving Funds.” 

EPA will deliver these resources in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy, whose funding allows the EJ TCTACs to provide support for identifying community opportunities for clean energy transition and financing options, including public-private partnerships supporting clean energy demonstration, deployment, workforce development and outreach opportunities that advance energy justice objectives. 

The formation of the EJ technical assistance centers is in direct response to feedback from communities and environmental justice leaders who have long called for technical assistance and capacity building support for communities and their partners as they work to access critical federal resources. The 17 centers will provide comprehensive coverage for the entire United States through a network of over 160 partners including community-based organizations, additional academic institutions, and Environmental Finance Centers, so that more communities can access federal funding opportunities like those made available through President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.  

EPA has also selected three national EJ TCTACs that will provide additional assistance across the country, with particular capacity to assist Tribes, including: 

• International City/County Management Association  
• Institute for Sustainable Communities  
• National Indian Health Board  

Additional award information for each selectee will be announced in Summer 2023.  

The EJ TCTAC program is part of the Federal Interagency Thriving Communities Network and delivers on the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative to ensure that 40% of the benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities. The new technical assistance centers will help ensure communities with environmental justice concerns can access President Biden’s historic investments in America to address generational disinvestment, legacy pollution, infrastructure challenges, and build a clean energy economy that will lower energy costs, strengthen our energy security, and meet our climate goals.   

Today’s announcement builds on the $100 million announced earlier this year under the Environmental Justice Government to Government Program and the Environmental Justice Collaborative Problem-Solving Cooperative Agreement Program, with applications due on April 14, 2023. EPA has also announced $550 million through the Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program, with applications due May 31, 2023.  

 Learn more about the selectees, their partners, and the EJ TCTAC program. 

Learn more about environmental justice at EPA. 

PHILADELPHIA (April 13, 2023) – The Delaware Inland Bays Program will receive $1.8 million in restoration funds as part of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding to estuaries of national significance, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today.

“This funding is a valuable investment in equity, clean water and resilience for Delaware’s sensitive coastal shoreline,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “Thanks to the support of the President’s BIL, we can accelerate efforts to preserve and improve the health of the Inland Bays.”

The Delaware Inland Bays Program is one of 28 estuary organizations under the National Estuaries Program (NEP) receiving this funding. The funding supports projects that address climate resilience, prioritize equity, and manage other key water quality and habitat challenges.

Among other things, this funding will help the Delaware Inland Bays Program seek expertise to assess the center’s internal and external operations as they relate to the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Environmental Justice, and Accessibility (DEIJA) initiative. This assessment will identify gaps and recommend policies, best practices, programs, milestones, and organizational behaviors that would foster authentic and meaningful DEIJA engagements across the organization’s functions.

An estuary is a partially enclosed coastal water body where freshwater from coastal lagoons mixes with salt water from the ocean. Estuaries, and their surrounding lands, are places of transition from land to sea. Estuaries are an irreplaceable natural resource that must be managed carefully for the mutual benefit of all who enjoy and depend on them.

Along with being home to thousands of species of birds, mammals, fish and other wildlife, estuaries have important commercial value, and their resources provide economic benefits for tourism, fisheries and recreational activities.

EPA’s website has more information about the National Estuary Program and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law .

WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its 30th annual Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks (GHG Inventory), which presents a national-level overview of annual greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 to 2021. Net U.S. greenhouse gas emissions were 5,586 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2021, a 6% increase in emissions from 2020. The increase is largely due to a rebound in economic activity following the height of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. However, emissions have declined overall since 2005 (17%), which reflects the combined impacts of several factors, including energy market trends, technological changes including energy efficiency improvements, and the carbon intensity of energy fuel choices.

“For 30 years EPA has worked with researchers, federal partners, and stakeholders to produce a detailed and complete inventory of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and sinks,” said Joseph Goffman, Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator for the Office of Air and Radiation. “This work reflects our commitment to transparency, data quality, and timeliness as we meet our inventory obligations under the United Nations Framework Conventions on Climate Change.”

For this latest release, EPA has made several important improvements, including updates to estimates for oil and gas and for flooded lands such as hydroelectric and agricultural reservoirs.

The GHG Inventory covers seven key greenhouse gases: carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, sulfur hexafluoride, and nitrogen trifluoride. In addition to tracking U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, the Inventory also calculates carbon dioxide that is removed from the atmosphere through the uptake of carbon in forests and other vegetation. 

This impartial, policy neutral report has been compiled annually since 1993 and submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The report is prepared by EPA in collaboration with numerous experts from other federal agencies, state government authorities, research and academic institutions, and industry associations. Under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), national inventories for UNFCCC Annex I parties should be provided to the UNFCCC Secretariat each year by April 15.

In an effort to engage the public and researchers across the country, EPA conducts an annual public review and comment process for this document. The document was made available on the EPA Greenhouse Gas Emissions website and announced via Federal Register Notice for 30 days. Comments received after the closure of the public comment period are accepted and considered for the next edition of this annual report. Public review of this year’s report occurred from February 15 to March 17, 2023, and comments received are posted to the docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2023-0001. Responses to comments will be posted to EPA’s website within 2-4 weeks following publication of this report.

Learn more about the report.

Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a proposed cleanup plan to address the remaining contaminated groundwater and soil at the Nucor Steel Marion, Inc. facility located at 912 Cheney Ave. in Marion, Ohio.

EPA’s proposal requires Nucor to monitor groundwater, collect soil gas samples, restrict land use, remove contaminants from groundwater, and manage contamination remaining on site with EPA oversight. The company must also submit a long-term monitoring plan to ensure that remedies are maintained and operated as intended.   

Since 1915, various operators used the Marion facility as a steel mill – contaminating soil and groundwater with hazardous wastes including lead, polychlorinated biphenyls, and volatile organic compounds. Under EPA’s supervision, Nucor took earlier actions to clean up contamination and prevent its spread. These actions included excavating contaminated soil and removing contaminants in soil and groundwater.

EPA will accept public comments on the proposed plan through May 18, 2023. The agency will make its final determination only after reviewing all comments. The plan may be modified based on public comments.

To submit comments, residents can:

• Visit the site’s web page
• Leave a confidential voicemail at 312-886-7613
• Send mail to:

Francisco Arcaute, U.S. EPA Region 5, 77 W. Jackson Blvd., 19-J
Chicago, IL 60604-3590

• Or email arcaute.francisco@epa.gov

EPA representatives will also be available on Thursday, May 4 from 6 – 8 p.m. EST to answer questions live. Residents can dial into the conference line at 312-667-5632, conference code 111 950 271#, to speak with EPA staff members about the Nucor site plan.

To read the proposed plan, watch a pre-recorded presentation, or read more information about the site, visit the site’s web page.

SAN FRANCISCO – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the selection of 17 new Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers nationwide, including the University of Arizona and San Diego State University to cover the Pacific Southwest region of the United States. The 17 Centers will receive $177 million to help underserved and overburdened communities across the country access funds from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, including historic investments to advance environmental justice.

From day one of his administration, President Biden has made achieving environmental justice a top priority. Through the Investing in America agenda, the Biden-Harris Administration will continue to support and strengthen communities that for too long were left out and left behind. Administrator Regan announced the technical assistance centers on the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in America Tour. 

"I've heard directly from communities most impacted by environmental and public health harms of the challenges they face accessing EPA and other federal resources to further their environmental justice goals," said EPA Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. "That's why I'm thrilled that today we're announcing two Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers in our Pacific Southwest region. These centers will ensure all communities in our region, including rural communities and communities facing language and accessibility barriers, can benefit from the historic IRA funding.”

San Diego State University Technical Assistance Center

The San Diego State center will primarily support communities with environmental justice concerns in southern California as well as in the rest of California, Hawaii, and the U.S.-affiliated Pacific Islands.

“San Diego State University is excited to spearhead these critical capacity-building efforts in Region 9. As a Hispanic-serving research institution, we have made inclusion, access, and excellence central to our mission,” said Dr. Rebecca Lewison, Director of the Institute of Ecological Monitoring and Management at San Diego State University. “With our outstanding collaborators and partners, we are ready to provide the technical assistance community organizations need to support their critical EJ work.”

“Tackling the climate crisis and transitioning toward clean energy requires a whole of government approach,” said Senator Alex Padilla. “I am glad to see the EPA taking steps to break down financial barriers to aid in this transition. The funding San Diego State will receive by becoming an Environmental Justice Thriving Community Technical Assistance Center will help us all work towards a more sustainable future while allowing the most disadvantaged communities access the resources they need to have cleaner air, water, and energy.”

“Our frontline communities have borne the brunt of the consequences of pollution and the climate crisis – and we shouldn’t further compound that harm by maintaining the status quo and barriers to federal resources,” said Congresswoman Sara Jacobs. “That’s why I’m so glad San Diego State University is an Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers grant selectee. This much-needed funding will empower the San Diego community to access benefits to build a clean energy future and secure clean water and clean air for all.”

University of Arizona Technical Assistance Center

The University of Arizona center will primarily support communities with environmental justice concerns in Arizona as well as in California, Hawaii, and Nevada.

“I am so pleased to learn about this award for an Environmental Justice Center from the EPA, and so proud of Dr. Beamer and her team,” says Iman Hakim, Dean of the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health at the University of Arizona. “We have been working with rural communities, tribal communities, and Border communities around Arizona on environmental challenges for many years, and this new funding builds capacity to bring resources and programs that will grow environmental equity for all.”

“I’m pleased the University of Arizona has been selected as an EJ Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center. The University of Arizona is an invaluable partner, critical resource and a leader in our community on environmental justice issues. Community organizations in Southern Arizona applying for federal funds deserve additional support and resources to ensure they can take full advantage of available opportunities,” said Congressman Raúl Grijalva. “I look forward to working with the University of Arizona to identify and reach out to those that most need environmental justice technical assistance and grant funding.”

Each of the technical assistance centers will receive at least $10 million to remove barriers and improve accessibility for communities with environmental justice concerns. With this critical investment, these centers will provide training and other assistance to build capacity for navigating federal grant application systems, writing strong grant proposals, and effectively managing grant funding. In addition, these centers will provide guidance on community engagement, meeting facilitation, and translation and interpretation services for limited English-speaking participants. Each of the technical assistance centers will also create and manage communication channels to ensure all communities have direct access to resources and information.

EPA will deliver these resources in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy, whose funding allows the centers to provide support for identifying community opportunities for clean energy transition and financing options, including public-private partnerships supporting clean energy demonstration, deployment, workforce development and outreach opportunities that advance energy justice objectives.

The formation of the EJ technical assistance centers is in direct response to feedback from communities and environmental justice leaders who have long called for technical assistance and capacity building support for communities and their partners as they work to access critical federal resources. The 17 centers will provide comprehensive coverage for the entire United States through a network of over 160 partners including community-based organizations, additional academic institutions, and Environmental Finance Centers, so that more communities can access federal funding opportunities like those made available through President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

In addition to the University of Arizona and San Diego State University, EPA selected the following 12 organizations to serve as Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers, along with their partners:

• University of Connecticut
• West Harlem Environmental Action, Inc.
• Inter-American University of Puerto Rico-Metro Campus
• National Wildlife Federation
• Deep South Center for Environmental Justice
• Research Triangle Institute
• Blacks in Green
• University of Minnesota
• New Mexico State University
• Wichita State University
• Willamette Partnership
• University of Washington

EPA also selected three national organizations that will provide additional assistance across the country, with particular capacity to assist Tribes:

• International City/County Management Association
• Institute for Sustainable Communities
• National Indian Health Board

Learn more about the selectees, their partners, and the EJ TCTAC program.

Learn more about environmental justice at EPA.

Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on Twitter.

NEW YORK - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced West Harlem Environmental Action, Inc. (WE ACT for Environmental Justice) has been selected to serve as an Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center (EJ TCTACs) that will receive about $10 million over the next five years to help communities across the Region access funds from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. This includes historic investments to advance environmental justice.

From day one of his administration, President Biden made achieving environmental justice a top priority. Through the Investing in America agenda, the Biden-Harris Administration will continue to support and strengthen communities that for too long were left out and left behind.

“We know that so many communities across the nation have the solutions to the environmental challenges they face. Unfortunately, many have lacked access or faced barriers when it comes to the crucial federal resources needed to deliver these solutions,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Today we’re taking another step to break down these barriers. Establishing these Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers across the nation will ensure all communities can access benefits from the President’s historic agenda, which includes groundbreaking investments in clean air, clean water, and our clean energy future.”

“For far too long, overburdened, underserved, and rural communities have lacked the resources and technical assistance they need from the federal government to overcome barriers critical to their energy needs and create new, long-lasting economic opportunities,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, DOE now has historic levels of new funding to pull from to help revitalize disadvantaged communities across the nation and ensure they’re not left behind in our transition to a clean energy future.”

"This program is a game changer. It ensures that communities will get the support and assistance needed to apply for funding from different federal programs," said Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. "This grant funding allows WE ACT to provide essential support and resources to help communities access federal funding opportunities and address their environmental and public health challenges."

“We would like to thank Administrator Michael Regan and Regional Administrator Lisa Garcia for this opportunity to help environmental justice communities throughout the region gain access to the funds and other resources needed to address the legacy of environmental racism and disinvestment that has burdened them with environmental health inequities,” said Peggy Shepard, Co-Founder and Executive Director of WE ACT for Environmental Justice. “We have assembled a strong team of partners, including the Clean Energy Group, Columbia University Climate School, Environmental Protection Network, Inter American University, New Jersey Environmental Justice Alliance, New York University School of Law Institute for Policy Integrity, and South Ward Environmental Alliance, and we look forward to launching our Technical Assistance Center in the coming months."

“I was proud to lead the Inflation Reduction Act to passage, which is the largest investment in environmental justice and fighting climate change to date, and part of that historic investment is EPA’s newly created Thriving Community Technical Assistance Centers,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer (NY). “There is no organization better equipped to serve as one of these centers than WEACT, which, under the able leadership of Peggy Shepard, will provide vital support to communities facing environmental justice issues and will ensure federal resources are distributed to address the challenges many communities have faced for generations. Having impactful organizations like WEACT doing good work on the ground in New York City is an important step towards righting the wrongs of our past and increasing federal investment in disadvantaged communities.” 

“For over thirty years, WE ACT has done critical work to promote environmental justice though community-driven change,” said Senator Gillibrand (NY). “I am proud to have helped secure the historic levels of funding in the Inflation Reduction Act dedicated to confronting environmental inequities, and I believe WE ACT is uniquely positioned to ensure that communities throughout New York State are able to access those opportunities. I congratulate WE ACT for receiving this well-deserved designation and look forward to seeing the work it does with this new funding.”

“The Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers will provide New Jersey with vital assistance and training needed to support and address environmental justice concerns within communities across the state,” said Sen. Menendez (NJ). “Through the help of these centers, New Jerseyans – no matter the language they speak – will be able to move forward with their initiatives by confidently writing grant proposals, effectively implementing the funding they receive, and successfully engaging the surrounding community.”

“Economic justice and social justice are intrinsically linked with environmental justice,” said Senator Booker (NJ). “Every day, communities of color, low-income communities, and indigenous communities across the U.S. disproportionately bear the burden of pollution. That is why I am proud to see federal resources go exactly where they should – directly into environmental justice communities where organizers and community members can address on-the-ground issues. I know that WEACT will work closely and in partnership with New Jersey’s EJ communities and organizations to confront the environmental justice challenges they have been facing for generations.”

“Like many states around the country, New York has faced unprecedented environmental challenges. However, thanks to the $10 million grant provided by the Environmental Protection Agency, West Harlem Environmental Action, Inc. (WE ACT) will help identify and address some of the environmental issues that communities in New York are facing,” said Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06). “WE ACT, as an Environmental Justice Thriving Community Technical Assistance Center, will help ensure that neighborhoods are better equipped to fight environmental issues that have damaged communities over the past few years.”

“House Democrats passed the Inflation Reduction Act to lower energy costs, confront the climate crisis with the fierce urgency of now and set our planet forward on a sustainable trajectory. We are already starting to see the effects of this transformative legislation. I applaud the EPA for the designation of the WE ACT Environmental Justice Center in New York as one of the first Environmental Justice Thriving Community Technical Assistance Centers. This funding will empower community partners to help to support and build capacity for programs focused on equitably combating the climate crisis here in New York City,” said House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08) 

“For too long, communities facing environmental justice challenges have been neglected even as they bear the biggest burden of the climate crisis’ impacts,” said Congressman Nadler (NY-12). “I’m proud to support EPA’s investment in WE ACT which will equip the center with the tools necessary to address the longstanding conditions facing the West Harlem community, including disproportionately high asthma rates among children.”

“The Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers (EJ TCTAC) Program provides grant funding to organizations around the nation working to address environmental justice and ensure these groups are supported with technical assistance and resources to broaden their engagement to serve more communities,” said Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13). “I am delighted WE ACT has been selected as an Environmental Justice Thriving Community Technical Assistance Center to continue its efforts to uplift underserved communities most susceptible to the impacts of climate change.  There is no social justice without environmental justice, and our work must continue to ensure the green and equitable future that all Americans deserve.”

“For too long, certain neighborhoods and communities have borne the burdens of pollution, with little to no resources and assistance to address these inequities. That needs to change—our communities need to be supported by strong local, state, and federal partnerships that finally tackle historic environmental injustices. Today’s announcement seeks to deliver that change. I look forward to working with WE ACT to ensure community-based organizations in New York’s 20th Congressional District are able to receive the training and capacity-building they need to enhance environmental justice throughout our Capital Region,” said Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20).

Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) said, “From Love Canal to the contaminated Buffalo River, the Buffalo-Niagara region has faced some of the nation’s most monumental environmental challenges. Through this initiative, organizations here in Western New York will have a place to turn for information and support to provide the best opportunity to bring federal resources dedicated to addressing environmental justice home.”

“Access to clean water and air should not depend on your zip code,” Rep. Norcross (NJ-01) said. “This new EPA grant program will provide local communities with the tools and resources needed to navigate the federal government and bring federal dollars back to our neighborhoods in South Jersey.  I will continue to fight to level the playing field and improve the quality of life for all.”

“Every American has a right to a safe and healthy environment, but far too many communities across New Jersey continue to pay a disproportionate price for pollution simply because of where they live,” said Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. “I fought hard for meaningful environmental justice funding in the Inflation Reduction Act because it’s critical that we ensure these overburdened communities have the federal resources they need to mitigate pollution and protect their families from dangerous health impacts. I’m glad to see that the Biden Administration is prioritizing this important cause and ensuring communities have access to the critical technical assistance they need. I look forward to continuing to work with EPA to make sure every family can breathe clean air, drink safe water, and enjoy a clean future.”

“I am pleased to hear that the EPA will be creating this Thriving Community Technical Assistance Center to help cities and communities in the 10th Congressional District utilize federal funds and resources to clean up environmental pollution in low-income, minority-populated neighborhoods,” said Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr.  “Americans who live in these areas have been suffering from air and water pollution issues for too long.  This environmental injustice needs to end.  I am proud that the Biden Administration has committed federal funds to do something about it.”

“For generations, Black, brown, and low-income communities have disproportionately borne the brunt of climate change. Historically, our nation has refused to address the unique challenges these communities face,” said Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12). “The EPA’s Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers Program is a step toward righting this historical wrong and assisting vulnerable communities in New Jersey, and I thank the EPA for including the West Harlem Environmental Action Center. Everyone, regardless of their race, income, or zip code, deserves to breathe clean air and drink clean water.” 

WE ACT is among 17 Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers (EJ TCTACs) the EPA announced to receive a total of more than $177 million to remove barriers and improve accessibility for communities with environmental justice concerns. With this critical investment, these centers will provide training and other assistance to build capacity for navigating federal grant application systems, writing strong grant proposals, and effectively managing grant funding. In addition, these centers will provide guidance on community engagement, meeting facilitation, and translation and interpretation services for limited English-speaking participants, thus removing barriers and improving accessibility for communities with environmental justice concerns. Each of the technical assistance centers will also create and manage communication channels to ensure all communities have direct access to resources and information.

EPA will deliver these resources in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy, whose funding allows the EJ TCTACs to provide support for identifying community opportunities for clean energy transition and financing options, including public-private partnerships supporting clean energy demonstration, deployment, workforce development and outreach opportunities that advance energy justice objectives.

The formation of the EJ technical assistance centers is in direct response to feedback from communities and environmental justice leaders who have long called for technical assistance and capacity building support for communities and their partners as they work to access critical federal resources. The 17 centers will provide comprehensive coverage for the entire United States through a network of over 160 partners including community-based organizations, additional academic institutions, and Environmental Finance Centers, so that more communities can access federal funding opportunities like those made available through President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

EPA has selected three national EJ TCTACs that will provide additional assistance across the country, with particular capacity to assist Tribes, including:

• International City/County Management Association
• Institute for Sustainable Communities
• National Indian Health Board

Additional award information for each selectee will be announced in Summer 2023.

The EJ TCTAC program is part of the Federal Interagency Thriving Communities Network and delivers on the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative to ensure that 40% of the benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities. Today’s selection will ensure communities with environmental justice concerns can access President Biden’s historic investments in America to address generational disinvestment, legacy pollution, infrastructure challenges, and build a clean energy economy that will lower energy costs, strengthen our energy security, and meet our climate goals. 

Today’s announcement builds on the $100 million announced earlier this year under the Environmental Justice Government to Government Program and the Environmental Justice Collaborative Problem-Solving Cooperative Agreement Program, with applications due on April 14, 2023. EPA has also announced $550 million through the Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program, with applications due May 31, 2023.

Learn more about the selectees, their partners, and the EJ TCTAC program.

Learn more about environmental justice at EPA.

West Harlem Environmental Action, Inc. (WE ACT for Environmental Justice) is a community-based organization that empowers communities of color and low-income residents to participate in the creation of sound and fair environmental policies and practices. Founded in 1988, WE ACT has been a leader in the national Environmental Justice Movement and has influenced the creation of federal, state and local policies affecting the environment. WE ACT works on various issues such as clean air, climate justice, healthy homes, good jobs, sustainable land use, and environmental education. WE ACT has collaborated with EPA on several occasions including by participating in EPA’s Environmental Justice Advisory Council. Peggy Shepard is co-founder and executive director of WE ACT and the first female chair of the National Environmental Justice Advisory Council to EPA.

Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.

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WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is issuing an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) asking the public for input regarding potential future hazardous substance designations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), also known as “Superfund.” 

“Today’s announcement highlights EPA’s commitment to transparency and the use of the best available science to tackle PFAS pollution and protect people from exposure to these forever chemicals,” said Barry N. Breen, Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Land and Emergency Management. “This is a key commitment under the Agency’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap and will provide an opportunity for a large and diverse group of stakeholders, including the public, state and local governments, Tribes, industry, businesses, environmental groups, and universities, to provide input and help EPA gather the latest science and information regarding PFAS.” 

This request for input and information follows EPA’s September 2022 proposed rule to designate two PFAS — perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), and their salts and structural isomers — as hazardous substances under CERCLA. EPA is currently reviewing comments received on this proposed rule.  

Through this ANPRM, EPA is seeking input on whether to propose to designate additional PFAS, including HFPO-DA, sometimes called GenX, and compounds that degrade in the environment by processes such as biodegradation, photolysis, and hydrolysis, to form certain PFAS. EPA is also seeking information on whether some PFAS compounds can or should be designated as a group or category. 

PFAS can accumulate and persist in the human body for long periods of time and evidence from laboratory animal and human epidemiology studies indicates that exposure to these compounds may lead to cancer, reproductive, developmental, cardiovascular, liver, and immunological effects. Many known and potential sources of PFAS contamination are near communities already overburdened with pollution.  

A Federal Register Notice has been published in the Federal Register at docket EPA-HQ-OLEM-2022-0922 and can be viewed on www.regulations.gov. The ANPRM will be open for a 60-day comment period through June 12, 2023.   
  
EPA intends to carefully review all the comments and information received in response to this ANPRM.  

An agency may publish an ANPRM in the Federal Register to seek input and obtain more information. If EPA decides to move forward with designating additional PFAS compounds as hazardous substances under CERCLA, the agency will publish a proposed rule and seek public comment.  

EPA is not reopening or otherwise proposing to modify any existing regulations through this ANPRM. 

Under the Roadmap, EPA is working across its programs and with its federal partners across the Biden-Harris Administration to develop solutions to the PFAS crisis and protect public health.   

Read the ANRPM here.  

Read more about EPA’s strategy to address PFAS here.  

Read more about EPA’s Superfund program here. 

NEW YORK – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced Inter-American University of Puerto Rico has been selected to serve as an Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center (EJ TCTACs) that will receive about $10 million over the next five years to help communities across Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands access funds from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. This includes historic investments to advance environmental justice.

From day one of his administration, President Biden made achieving environmental justice a top priority. Through the Investing in America agenda, the Biden-Harris Administration will continue to support and strengthen communities that for too long were left out and left behind. Administrator Regan announced the technical assistance centers on the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America tour.

“We know that so many communities across the nation have the solutions to the environmental challenges they face. Unfortunately, many have lacked access or faced barriers when it comes to the crucial federal resources needed to deliver these solutions,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Today we’re taking another step to break down these barriers. Establishing these Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers across the nation will ensure all communities can access benefits from the President’s historic agenda, which includes groundbreaking investments in clean air, clean water, and our clean energy future.”

“For far too long, overburdened, underserved, and rural communities have lacked the resources and technical assistance they need from the federal government to overcome barriers critical to their energy needs and create new, long-lasting economic opportunities,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, DOE now has historic levels of new funding to pull from to help revitalize disadvantaged communities across the nation and ensure they’re not left behind in our transition to a clean energy future.”

"This program is a game changer. It ensures that communities will get the support and assistance needed to apply for funding from different federal programs," said Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. "This grant funding allows IAUPR to provide essential support and resources to help communities in the Caribbean access federal funding opportunities and address their environmental and public health challenges."

“IAUPR is proud to join with several partners to serve and support communities in EPA's Region 2,” said Dr. Yogani Govender, Dean of Science and Technology at Interamerican University. “The IAUPR-EJTCTAC will allow access to essential funds for low income and underserved communities for environmental and energy justice projects that strengthen and increase community adaptation and resilience to climate change. The funding awarded today increases opportunities for organizations to develop capacity in leadership and financial opportunities to build stronger environmental and energy justice partnerships and networks.”

“Congratulations to the InterAmerican University in my district on its new role to support community members and stakeholders in Puerto Rico and USVI as part of the federally funded Environmental Justice Thriving Community Technical Assistance Center initiative. With a $10 million investment, this center will benefit those seeking to navigate the federal system as it provides technical assistance and capacity building to access grants and other federal opportunities available. Through the years, many nonprofits and local entities have benefited from federal aid. This new center will ensure more people can access resources in the environmental and related fields,” said Congresswoman Jenniffer González Colón.

IAUPR is among 17 Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers (EJ TCTACs) the EPA announced to receive a total of more than $177 million to remove barriers and improve accessibility for communities with environmental justice concerns. With this critical investment, these centers will provide training and other assistance to build capacity for navigating federal grant application systems, writing strong grant proposals, and effectively managing grant funding. In addition, these centers will provide guidance on community engagement, meeting facilitation, and translation and interpretation services for limited English-speaking participants, thus removing barriers and improving accessibility for communities with environmental justice concerns. Each of the technical assistance centers will also create and manage communication channels to ensure all communities have direct access to resources and information.

EPA will deliver these resources in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy, whose funding allows the EJ TCTACs to provide support for identifying community opportunities for clean energy transition and financing options, including public-private partnerships supporting clean energy demonstration, deployment, workforce development and outreach opportunities that advance energy justice objectives.

The formation of the EJ technical assistance centers is in direct response to feedback from communities and environmental justice leaders who have long called for technical assistance and capacity building support for communities and their partners as they work to access critical federal resources. The 17 centers will provide comprehensive coverage for the entire United States through a network of over 160 partners including community-based organizations, additional academic institutions, and Environmental Finance Centers, so that more communities can access federal funding opportunities like those made available through President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

EPA has selected three national EJ TCTACs that will provide additional assistance across the country, with particular capacity to assist Tribes, including:

• International City/County Management Association
• Institute for Sustainable Communities
• National Indian Health Board

Additional award information for each selectee will be announced in Summer 2023.

The EJ TCTAC program is part of the Federal Interagency Thriving Communities Network and delivers on the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative to ensure that 40% of the benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities. The new technical assistance centers will help ensure communities with environmental justice concerns can access President Biden’s historic investments in America to address generational disinvestment, legacy pollution, infrastructure challenges, and build a clean energy economy that will lower energy costs, strengthen our energy security, and meet our climate goals. 

Today’s announcement builds on the $100 million announced earlier this year under the Environmental Justice Government to Government Program and the Environmental Justice Collaborative Problem-Solving Cooperative Agreement Program, with applications due on April 14, 2023. EPA has also announced $550 million through the Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program, with applications due May 31, 2023.

Learn more about the selectees, their partners, and the EJ TCTAC program.

Learn more about environmental justice at EPA.

The Inter-American University of Puerto Rico (IAUPR) is a private non-profit institution that provides bilingual education to diverse and underserved populations in Puerto Rico and other countries. Founded in 1912, IAUPR has nine campuses and two professional schools that offer academic programs at all levels and disciplines. IAUPR is committed to the socioeconomic development of its communities by fostering the creation of knowledge, the search for solutions to problems, and service to the society through education and alliances. IAUPR has a focus on environmental protection issues and has established the Center of Environmental Education, Conservation, and Interpretation (CECIA) to integrate environmental issues into education.

Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.

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RALEIGH, NC (April 13, 2023) – On April 12, 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $1,471,426 in research grant funding to two universities to develop, apply, and test innovative and creative community-engaged approaches to reduce household food waste in the United States.

“Preventing food waste at home can help fight climate change and save money for U.S. families,” said Chris Frey, Assistant Administrator of EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “The research funded by these grants will help us identify successful strategies to empower communities to reduce food waste while improving food security.”

When food is produced but unnecessarily wasted, all the resources used to grow the food (water, energy, and fertilizers) along with the resources used to transport it, are also wasted. Wasted food is typically deposited in a landfill where it decomposes, and the main byproducts are methane and carbon dioxide, greenhouse gases that trap heat and contribute to climate change. Reducing and preventing food waste can increase food security, foster economic efficiency, promote resource and energy conservation, and help address climate change.

The following institutions are receiving awards:

• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, to work with households in Raleigh, NC, to evaluate a set of household food waste prevention interventions developed by researchers and local health, food, and environmental organizations. This project will also simulate the impact of the interventions on environmental outcomes and cost-effectiveness for national-scale application.
• Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a series of culinary education videos for home cooks focused on food waste prevention and minimization. The project will measure the impacts of educational materials on food waste reduction at household and community levels and test national scalability.

Learn more about these grants.

Learn more about EPA research grants.

PHILADELPHIA (April 13, 2023) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will host a virtual community meeting for residents of the Ivy City section of the District of Columbia on Thursday, April 27 at 6:00 p.m. 

EPA staff will explain how air monitoring and sampling will take place in Ivy City in the coming weeks, and answer questions and concerns from community members. 

EPA staff will install air monitoring canisters to capture air samples. The data collected will inform any actions under the Clean Air Act. 

EPA’s action is a follow-up to air sampling done by the District and will help provide a more comprehensive understanding of the air analysis for the community.

To register for this virtual meeting, visit:

https://usepa.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJItfuuoqjsiHnxeZqdtnowCjt9o58xA1lM

Harrisburg, PA –U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Shapiro Administration will host a media event on Friday April 14, 2023, at 11 AM to celebrate Earth Month and to discuss how Pennsylvania will combat climate change from the federal, state, and local levels. As part of the celebration, Acting Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Rich Negrin will join EPA Region 3 Administrator Adam Ortiz, PENNVEST Chairman Dr. Brian Regli, Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission Executive Director Ariella Maron, and Lehigh Valley Planning Commission Executive Director Becky Bradley will outline their plans to use federal funds under EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Programs.

WHAT: Shapiro Administration and EPA Partner to Fight Climate Change and Celebrate Earth Month

WHO:

• EPA Region 3 Administrator Adam Ortiz
• Acting Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Rich Negrin
• PENNVEST Chairman Dr. Brian Regli
• Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission Executive Director Ariella Maron
• Lehigh Valley Planning Commission Executive Director Becky Bradley

WHEN: Friday April 14, 2023 at 11 AM

WHERE: Soldier’s & Sailor’s Grove, Commonwealth Avenue and State Street Harrisburg, PA 17101; across from the Fountain

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the selection of 17 Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers (EJ TCTACs) in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy that will receive $177 million to help underserved and overburdened communities across the country access funds from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, including historic investments to advance environmental justice.

Administrator Regan announced the 17 technical assistance centers on the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America tour in New York City, New York with Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and WE ACT for Environmental Justice Co-Founder & Executive Director Peggy Shepard, highlighting the President’s historic investments in environmental justice. From day one of his administration, President Biden made achieving environmental justice a top priority. Through the Investing in America agenda, the Biden-Harris Administration will continue to support and strengthen communities that for too long were left out and left behind.

“We know that so many communities across the nation have the solutions to the environmental challenges they face. Unfortunately, many have lacked access or faced barriers when it comes to the crucial federal resources needed to deliver these solutions,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Today we’re taking another step to break down these barriers. Establishing these Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers across the nation will ensure all communities can access benefits from the President’s historic economic plan, which includes groundbreaking investments in clean air, clean water, and our clean energy future.”

“For far too long, overburdened, underserved, and rural communities have lacked the resources and technical assistance they need from the federal government to overcome barriers critical to their energy needs and create new, long-lasting economic opportunities,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, DOE now has historic levels of new funding to pull from to help revitalize disadvantaged communities across the nation and ensure they’re not left behind in our transition to a clean energy future.”

Each of the technical assistance centers will receive at least $10 million to remove barriers and improve accessibility for communities with environmental justice concerns. With this critical investment, these centers will provide training and other assistance to build capacity for navigating federal grant application systems, writing strong grant proposals, and effectively managing grant funding. In addition, these centers will provide guidance on community engagement, meeting facilitation, and translation and interpretation services for limited English-speaking participants, thus removing barriers and improving accessibility for communities with environmental justice concerns. Each of the technical assistance centers will also create and manage communication channels to ensure all communities have direct access to resources and information.

EPA will deliver these resources in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy, whose funding allows the EJ TCTACs to provide support for identifying community opportunities for clean energy transition and financing options, including public-private partnerships supporting clean energy demonstration, deployment, workforce development and outreach opportunities that advance energy justice objectives.

The formation of the EJ technical assistance centers is in direct response to feedback from communities and environmental justice leaders who have long called for technical assistance and capacity building support for communities and their partners as they work to access critical federal resources. The 17 centers will provide comprehensive coverage for the entire United States through a network of over 160 partners including community-based organizations, additional academic institutions, and Environmental Finance Centers, so that more communities can access federal funding opportunities like those made available through President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

EPA has selected the following 14 organizations to serve as Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers, along with their partners:

• University of Connecticut
• West Harlem Environmental Action, Inc.
• Inter-American University of Puerto Rico-Metro Campus
• National Wildlife Federation
• Deep South Center for Environmental Justice
• Research Triangle Institute
• Blacks in Green
• University of Minnesota
• New Mexico State University
• Wichita State University
• University of Arizona
• San Diego State University
• Willamette Partnership
• University of Washington

In addition, EPA has selected three national EJ TCTACs that will provide additional assistance across the country, with particular capacity to assist Tribes, including:

• International City/County Management Association
• Institute for Sustainable Communities
• National Indian Health Board

Additional award information for each selectee will be announced in Summer 2023.

The EJ TCTAC program is part of the Federal Interagency Thriving Communities Network and delivers on the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative to ensure that 40% of the benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities. The new technical assistance centers will help ensure communities with environmental justice concerns can access President Biden’s historic investments in America to address generational disinvestment, legacy pollution, infrastructure challenges, and build a clean energy economy that will lower energy costs, strengthen our energy security, and meet our climate goals. 

Today’s announcement builds on the $100 million announced earlier this year under the Environmental Justice Government to Government Program and the Environmental Justice Collaborative Problem-Solving Cooperative Agreement Program, with applications due on April 14, 2023. EPA has also announced $550 million through the Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program, with applications due May 31, 2023.

Learn more about the selectees, their partners, and the EJ TCTAC program.

Learn more about environmental justice at EPA.

WASHINGTON —Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized 41 clean water and drinking water infrastructure projects for excellence and innovation. These projects were funded in part by the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) programs. EPA’s AQUARIUS and PISCES national recognition programs highlight exemplary water infrastructure projects. They showcase improvements in water quality and public health protection as a result of strong partnership at the federal, state, and local level. With historic funding from the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, more projects like these will be possible in the future.

“I am thrilled to recognize innovative infrastructure projects that are delivering cleaner, safer water for communities while providing insights that can be replicated across the country,” said EPA’s Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. “I look forward to seeing more projects like these as we continue to invest $50 billion through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.”

EPA’s AQUARIUS program celebrates DWSRF projects that are innovative, sustainable, and protect public health. Twenty-one projects by state or local governments and drinking water utilities were recognized by the 2022 AQUARIUS program, including the following exceptional projects:

• Excellence in Innovative Financing: Sabine Water District No. 1, Louisiana—Ajax-Beulah Water System Consolidation Project
• Excellence in System Partnerships: Aqua Ohio, Inc., Ohio—New Franklin Water Line Extension
• Excellence in Community Engagement: Artesian Water Company, Delaware—Frankford Water System Purchase and Delaware Avenue Extension Project
• Excellence in Public Health Protection: Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority, Pennsylvania—Lead Service Line Replacement Project
• Excellence in Creative Solutions: City of Richmond, Virginia—Phase II Lead Service Line Replacement Project

EPA’s George F. Ames Performance and Innovation in the SRF Creating Environmental Success (PISCES) program celebrates innovative  CWSRF programs implemented by assistance recipients. Twenty projects by state or local governments, public utilities, and private entities were recognized by the 2022 PISCES program, including the following exceptional projects:

• Excellence in Innovative Financing: Hampton Roads Sanitation District, Virginia—Hampton Roads Sanitation District Programmatic Loan
• Excellence in System Partnerships: Villages of Dupont and Cloverdale, Ohio—STEP Collection System Dupont-Cloverdale Wastewater Plant
• Excellence in Community Engagement: Kearny Town, New Jersey—Kearny Town Redevelopment of Recreational Complex
• Excellence in Environmental and Public Health Protection: McDowell County Public Service District, West Virginia—Coalwood Sewer Project - Phase 1
• Excellence in Problem Solving: City of Hastings, Nebraska—Hastings Aquifer Storage and Restoration Project

See the full list of recognized projects and learn more about the AQUARIUS and PISCES Programs.

Background

The SRFs are EPA-state partnerships that provide communities with a permanent, independent source of low-cost financing for a wide range of water quality and drinking water infrastructure projects. EPA’s SRFs have provided more than $216 billion in financial assistance to over 46,000 water quality infrastructure projects and over 18,000 drinking water projects across the country. With the passing of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in November 2021, over $43 billion in funding will be provided to the SRFs over 5 years for communities’ water infrastructure improvement projects. This historic funding will help address the most pressing water challenges of today, especially in disadvantaged communities, and make more water infrastructure projects possible.

NEW YORK - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) announced Puerto Rico will receive $3 million to plan innovative strategies to cut climate pollution and build clean energy economies across the Commonwealth. In March, EPA announced the availability of the funds, which represent the first funding going to states, local governments, Tribes, and territories from the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG) program created by the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act. Later this year, EPA will launch a competition for $4.6 billion in funding to implement projects and initiatives included in the plans. Puerto Rico will be eligible to receive that implementation funding because it has opted in to receive the planning grant.

Additionally, the San Juan, Puerto Rico Metropolitan Area is among the 67 most populous metropolitan areas in the nation with the opportunity to receive $1 million each to develop regional planning grants with key stakeholders in their area. Lead agencies in these metropolitan areas must submit a notice of intent to participate by April 28, 2023. Communities that do not rank in the top 67 most populous areas will have opportunities to partner with their states and neighboring jurisdictions.

“Puerto Rico has signed on to a historic opportunity to invest in planning for ways to reduce climate pollution, boost renewable energy, create jobs and support communities most vulnerable to climate change impacts,” said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “The decision to opt into this historic program now is so important because once the planning is completed there is an opportunity this year for even more funding to start implementing the work on the ground. In addition to this funding for all of PR, the San Juan Metropolitan Area also has until April 28 to sign on to receive $1 million for climate planning under this same program.”

Puerto Rico, the 50 states, and the District of Columbia were each eligible to receive $3 million in EPA CPRG planning funds. Puerto Rico will use the funds to augment climate planning in collaboration with municipalities and conduct meaningful engagement with communities, including with overburdened communities. In 2019, Puerto Rico passed the Puerto Rico Energy Public Policy Act, which set a goal of 100% renewable energy by 2050. The Act sets interim goals of 40% renewables by 2025 and 60% by 2040. Puerto Rico’s participation in the CPRG program will support its ongoing efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, establish a reliable and carbon-neutral power grid and ensure all communities equitably benefit in the clean energy transition.

“These funds to develop a specific and innovative strategies are focused on reducing climate pollution through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants of the Biden-Harris Administration and with EPA’s support, we will continue to promote and renew the public policy of my Administration to mitigate the effects of climate change in collaboration with the municipalities and communities. I appreciate the support of the federal government and the close relationship we have to continue providing good news to the people of Puerto Rico,” said the Governor of Puerto Rico, Pedro R. Pierluisi. 

About the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Program

The CPRG planning grants will support states, territories, Tribes, municipalities and air agencies, in the creation of comprehensive, innovative strategies for reducing pollution and ensuring that investments maximize benefits, especially for low-income and disadvantaged communities. These climate plans will include:

• Greenhouse gas emissions inventories;
• Emissions projections and reduction targets;
• Economic, health, and social benefits, including to low-income and disadvantaged communities;
• Plans to leverage other sources of federal funding including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act;
• Workforce needs to support decarbonization and a clean energy economy; and
• Future government staffing and budget needs.

In program guidance released in March, EPA describes how the agency intends to award and manage CPRG funds to eligible entities, including states, metropolitan areas, Tribes, and territories. EPA strongly encourages all eligible entities to review the complete program guidance documents available on EPA’s website to learn more about these planning grants, details about eligibility criteria and allocation formulas, important deadlines, and other requirements. 

Next Steps

This funding for climate planning will be followed later this year by a national grant competition for $4.6 billion in implementation grant funding that will support the expeditious implementation of investment-ready policies created by the CPRG planning grants, programs, and projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the near term.

By summer 2023, EPA Regional Offices expect to award and administer the funding agreements once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.

More information on the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants

CPRG Planning Grant Program Guidances

Sign up for notifications about the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants

Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.

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WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $1,471,426 in research grant funding to two universities to develop, apply, and test innovative and creative community-engaged approaches to reduce household food waste in the United States.

“Preventing food waste at home can help fight climate change and save money for U.S. families,” said Chris Frey, Assistant Administrator of EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “The research funded by these grants will help us identify successful strategies to empower communities to reduce food waste while improving food security.”

When food is produced but unnecessarily wasted, all the resources used to grow the food (water, energy, and fertilizers) along with the resources used to transport it, are also wasted. Wasted food is typically deposited in a landfill where it decomposes, and the main byproducts are methane and carbon dioxide, greenhouse gases that trap heat and contribute to climate change. Reducing and preventing food waste can increase food security, foster economic efficiency, promote resource and energy conservation, and help address climate change.

The following institutions are receiving awards:

• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, to work with households in Raleigh, NC, to evaluate a set of household food waste prevention interventions developed by researchers and local health, food, and environmental organizations. This project will also simulate the impact of the interventions on environmental outcomes and cost-effectiveness for national-scale application.
• Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a series of culinary education videos for home cooks focused on food waste prevention and minimization. The project will measure the impacts of educational materials on food waste reduction at household and community levels and test national scalability.

Learn more about these grants.

Learn more about EPA research grants.

NUEVA YORK - Hoy, la Agencia de Protección Ambiental de Estados Unidos (EPA, por sus siglas en inglés) y el Departamento de Recursos Naturales y Ambientales (DRNA) de Puerto Rico anunciaron que Puerto Rico recibirá $3 millones para desarrollar estrategias innovadoras destinadas a reducir la contaminación climática y apoyar proyectos de energía limpia que redunden en crecimiento económico para toda la isla. En marzo, la EPA anunció la disponibilidad de los fondos, que representan las primeras subvenciones destinadas a estados, gobiernos locales, tribus y territorios del programa de Subvenciones para la Reducción de la Contaminación Climática (CPRG) creado por la Ley de Reducción de la Inflación de la Administración Biden-Harris. Más adelante este año, la EPA lanzará una convocatoria de $4.6 mil millones en fondos para implementar proyectos e iniciativas incluidas en los planes. Puerto Rico será elegible para recibir esos fondos de implementación porque ha optado por recibir la subvención de planificación.

Además, el area metropolitana de San Juan, Puerto Rico se encuentra entre las 67 áreas metropolitanas más pobladas de la nación con la oportunidad de recibir $1 millón cada una para desarrollar subvenciones de planificación regional con colaboradores clave en su área. Las agencias líderes en estas áreas metropolitanas deben someter un aviso con su intención de participar antes del 28 de abril de 2023. Las comunidades que no se encuentran entre las 67 áreas más pobladas tendrán la oportunidad de asociarse con sus estados y jurisdicciones vecinas.

“Puerto Rico está participando en una oportunidad histórica para invertir en la planificación de maneras de reducir la contaminación climática, impulsar la energía renovable, crear empleos y apoyar a las comunidades más vulnerables a los impactos del cambio climático,” comentó la administradora regional de la EPA, Lisa F. García. “La decisión de optar ahora por este programa histórico es muy importante porque una vez que concluya la planificación, existe la oportunidad de obtener aún más fondos para comenzar a implementar el trabajo de campo este mismo año. Además de estos fondos para todas las areas de Puerto Rico, el area metropolitana de San Juan también tiene hasta el 28 de abril para inscribirse y recibir $1 millón destinado a la planificación climática, gracias a este mismo programa.”

Puerto Rico, los 50 estados y el Distrito de Columbia fueron elegibles para recibir cada uno $3 millones en fondos de planificación de CPRG de la EPA. Puerto Rico utilizará los fondos para aumentar la planificación climática en colaboración con los municipios y llevar a cabo un compromiso significativo con las comunidades, incluidas las comunidades sobrecargadas. En 2019, Puerto Rico aprobó la Ley de Política Pública de Energía de Puerto Rico, que estableció una meta de energía 100% renovable para 2050. La Ley establece objetivos provisionales de 40% de energías renovables para 2025 y 60% para 2040. La participación de Puerto Rico en el programa CPRG apoyará sus esfuerzos continuos para reducir las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero, establecer una red eléctrica confiable y neutral en carbono y garantizar que todas las comunidades se vean favorecidas equitativamente en la transición hacia la energía limpia.

“Estos fondos para desarrollar estrategias innovadoras y puntuales nos ayudarán a reducir la contaminación climática a través del Programa de Subvenciones para la Reducción de la Contaminación Ambiental de la Administración Biden-Harris y con este apoyo de la EPA continuaremos impulsando y renovando la política pública de mi Administración para mitigar los efectos del cambio climático en colaboración con los municipios y las comunidades. Agradezco el apoyo del gobierno federal y la estrecha relación que tenemos para continuar brindando buenas noticias al pueblo de Puerto Rico,” dijo el gobernador de Puerto Rico, Pedro R. Pierluisi. 

Acerca del Programa de Subvenciones para la Reducción de la Contaminación Climática

Las subvenciones de planificación de CPRG apoyarán a los estados, territorios, tribus, municipios y agencias que implementan programas de calidad de aire, en la creación de estrategias integrales e innovadoras para reducir la contaminación y garantizar que dichas inversiones maximicen los beneficios, especialmente para las comunidades desventajadas y de bajos ingresos. Estos planes climáticos incluirán:

• Inventarios de emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero;
• Proyecciones de emisiones y objetivos de reducción;
• Beneficios económicos, sanitarios y sociales, incluso para las comunidades de bajos ingresos y desventajadas;
• Planes para aprovechar otras fuentes de financiamiento federal, incluida la Ley Bipartidista de Infraestructura y la Ley de Reducción de la Inflación;
• Necesidades de la fuerza laboral para apoyar la descarbonización y una economía de energía limpia; y
• Futuras necesidades presupuestarias y de dotación de personal del gobierno.

En la guía del programa publicada en marzo, la EPA describe la manera en que la agencia tiene la intención de otorgar y administrar los fondos de CPRG a entidades elegibles, incluidos estados, áreas metropolitanas, tribus y territorios. La EPA recomienda encarecidamente a todas las entidades elegibles que revisen los documentos completos de orientación del programa disponibles en el sitio web de la EPA para obtener más información sobre estas subvenciones de planificación, detalles sobre los criterios de elegibilidad y las fórmulas de asignación, plazos importantes y otros requisitos.

Próximos pasos

Este financiamiento para la planificación climática estará seguido más adelante este año por una convocatoria nacional de subvenciones por $4.6 mil millones en fondos de subvenciones de implementación que apoyarán la implementación expedita de políticas listas para la inversión creadas por las subvenciones, programas y proyectos de planificación de CPRG a fin de reducir las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero en el corto plazo.

Para el verano de 2023, las Oficinas Regionales de la EPA esperan otorgar y administrar los acuerdos de financiamiento una vez que se cumplan todos los requisitos legales y administrativos.

Más información sobre las Subvenciones de reducción de la contaminación climática

Guías sobre el programa de subvenciones de planificación CPRG

Inscríbase para recibir notificaciones acerca de las subvenciones de reducción de la contaminación climática

Siga a la Región 2 de la EPA en Twitter y visite nuestra página en Facebook. Para obtener más información sobre la Región 2 de la EPA, visite nuestro sitio web.

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WASHINGTON (12 de abril de 2023) – Hoy, la Agencia de Protección Ambiental de Estados Unidos (EPA, por sus siglas en inglés) anunció nuevas normas federales propuestas para las emisiones de vehículos que acelerarán la transición en curso hacia un futuro de vehículos limpios y abordarán la crisis climática. Las normas propuestas mejorarían la calidad del aire para las comunidades de todo el país, especialmente las comunidades que han soportado la carga del aire contaminado. En conjunto, estas propuestas evitarían casi 10 mil millones de toneladas de emisiones de CO2, equivalentes a más del doble de las emisiones totales de CO2 de los Estados Unidos en 2022, ahorrando a la vez miles de dólares durante la vida útil de los vehículos que cumplen con estas nuevas normas y reducirían la dependencia de Estados Unidos de aproximadamente 20 mil millones de barriles de petróleo importado.  

“Al proponer las normas de contaminación más ambiciosas hasta la fecha para automóviles y camiones, estamos cumpliendo con la promesa de la Administración Biden-Harris de proteger a las personas y al planeta, asegurando reducciones críticas en la contaminación peligrosa del aire y el clima y asegurando beneficios económicos significativos como menores costos de combustible y mantenimiento para las familias”, señaló el administrador de la EPA, Michael S. Regan. “Estas normas ambiciosas son fácilmente alcanzables gracias a la agenda titulada Invertir en Estados Unidos del presidente Biden, que ya está impulsando un progreso histórico para fabricar más autos eléctricos en Estados Unidos y asegurar la competitividad global de Estados Unidos”.  

Desde que el presidente Biden asumió el cargo, el número de ventas de vehículos eléctricos se ha triplicado, mientras que el número de modelos disponibles se ha duplicado. Hay más de 130,000 cargadores públicos en todo el país, un aumento del 40% con respecto a 2020. El sector privado también ha comprometido más de $120 mil millones en inversiones nacionales en vehículos eléctricos y baterías desde que el presidente Biden firmó la Ley de Reducción de la Inflación. Las nuevas normas propuestas hoy reflejan los avances e inversiones en la fabricación de vehículos limpios, que se han acelerado gracias a la agenda Invertir en Estados Unidos del presidente Biden y complementan la transición en curso en el mercado hacia vehículos más limpios.  

Las nuevas normas de emisiones propuestas para vehículos livianos, medianos y pesados para modelos del año (MY) 2027 y posteriores reducirían significativamente la contaminación climática y dañina del aire, significando beneficios considerables para la salud pública, especialmente en las comunidades que han soportado la mayor carga de la mala calidad del aire. Al mismo tiempo, las normas propuestas reducirían los costos de mantenimiento y ofrecerían ahorros significativos de combustible para los conductores y operadores de camiones. 

• Hasta 2055, la EPA proyecta que las normas propuestas evitarían casi 10 mil millones de toneladas de emisiones de CO2 (equivalente a más del doble de las emisiones totales de CO2 de los Estados Unidos en 2022). Las normas propuestas reducirían otra contaminación dañina del aire y resultarían en menos muertes prematuras y efectos graves para la salud, como ingresos a hospitales debido a enfermedades respiratorias y cardiovasculares.
• Al acelerar la adopción de tecnologías que reducen los costos de combustible y mantenimiento junto con la contaminación, las normas propuestas ahorrarían al consumidor promedio $12,000 a lo largo de la vida útil de un vehículo liviano, en comparación con un vehículo que no estaba sujeto a las nuevas normas.
• En conjunto, las propuestas reducirían las importaciones de petróleo en aproximadamente 20 mil millones de barriles.
• En general, la EPA estima que los beneficios de las normas propuestas excederían los costos en al menos $1 billón.  

Normas propuestas para vehículos livianos y medianos   

El primer conjunto de normas propuestas anunciadas hoy, las “Normas de emisiones multicontaminantes para modelo de los años 2027 y posteriores de vehículos livianos y medianos”, se basa en las normas de emisiones existentes de la EPA para automóviles de pasajeros y camiones livianos para modelos de los años 2023 hasta 2026. La propuesta conserva el diseño regulatorio probado de las normas anteriores de la EPA para vehículos livianos, pero aprovecha los avances en la tecnología de automóviles limpios para reducir aún más la contaminación climática y las emisiones que generan smog y hollín.  

Entre 2027 y 2055, los beneficios netos totales proyectados de la propuesta para vehículos livianos y medianos oscilan entre $850 mil millones y $1.6 billones. Se espera que la propuesta evite 7,300 millones de toneladas de emisiones de CO2 hasta 2055, lo que equivale a eliminar todas las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero de todo el sector actual del transporte de los Estados Unidos durante cuatro años y también brindaría beneficios significativos para la salud al reducir las partículas finas que pueden causar muerte prematura, ataques cardíacos, enfermedades respiratorias y cardiovasculares, asma agravada y disminución de la función pulmonar. El análisis de la EPA muestra que también se reducirán los impactos graves en la salud relacionados con la exposición a partículas, incluidos los trastornos pulmonares (como el cáncer), las enfermedades cardíacas y la mortalidad prematura.  

La propuesta de la EPA considera un amplio conjunto de tecnologías de control de emisiones disponibles, y las normas están diseñadas para permitir a los fabricantes cumplir con las normas basadas en el rendimiento, sin embargo, funcionan mejor para sus flotas de vehículos. La EPA proyecta que, para la industria en conjunto, se espera que las normas impulsen el uso generalizado de filtros para reducir las emisiones de partículas de gasolina y estimulen un mayor despliegue de tecnologías de reducción de CO2 para vehículos a gasolina.  

También se proyecta que las normas propuestas aceleren la transición a los vehículos eléctricos. Dependiendo de las vías de cumplimiento que los fabricantes seleccionen para cumplir con las normas, la EPA proyecta que los vehículos eléctricos podrían representar el 67% de las ventas de vehículos livianos nuevos y el 46% de las ventas de vehículos medianos nuevos en modelos del año 2032. Se proyecta que las normas propuestas para vehículos livianos modelos del año 2032 signifiquen una reducción del 56% en los niveles objetivo de emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero promedio proyectados de la flota en comparación con las normas para modelos del año 2026 existentes. Las normas propuestas para vehículos medianos modelos del año 2032 producirían una reducción del 44% en comparación con las normas para modelos del año 2026.  

Normas propuestas para camiones pesados   

El segundo conjunto de normas propuestas anunciadas hoy, las “Normas de Gases de Efecto Invernadero para Vehículos Pesados - Fase 3”, se aplicarían a los vehículos vocacionales pesados (como camiones de reparto, transportistas de basura o camiones de volteo, camiones de servicios públicos, transporte colectivo, minibuses, autobuses escolares) y camiones típicamente utilizados para transportar carga. Estas normas complementarían las normas de contaminantes en cuestión para vehículos pesados modelos del año 2027 y posteriores que la EPA finalizó en diciembre de 2022 y representan la tercera fase del Plan de Camiones Limpios de la EPA.  

Estas normas “Fase 3” de gases de efecto invernadero mantienen la estructura flexible que la EPA diseñó previamente a través de un sólido proceso de participación de las partes interesadas para reflejar la naturaleza diversa de la industria de servicio pesado. Al igual que la propuesta para vehículos livianos y medianos, la propuesta para vehículos pesados utiliza normas basadas en el rendimiento que permiten a los fabricantes lograr el cumplimiento de manera eficiente dependiendo de la composición de sus flotas.  

Los beneficios netos proyectados de la propuesta para vehículos pesados oscilan entre $180 mil millones y $320 mil millones. Se proyecta que la propuesta evitará 1,800 millones de toneladas de CO2 hasta 2055, lo que equivale a eliminar todas las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero de todo el sector de transporte actual de los Estados Unidos durante todo un año, y brindará beneficios adicionales para la salud al reducir otros contaminantes de estos vehículos. Las normas darían como resultado una mejor calidad del aire en todo el país, y para quienes viven cerca de las carreteras principales y se ven desproporcionadamente expuestos a la contaminación de los vehículos y la actividad pesada, que a menudo incluye poblaciones de bajos ingresos y comunidades de color, los beneficios serían más directos.  

Invertir en el futuro del transporte limpio de Estados Unidos  

Las normas propuestas se alinean con los compromisos asumidos por los fabricantes de automóviles y los estados de EE. UU., ya que planean acelerar las tecnologías de vehículos limpios en las flotas de servicio liviano y mediano en los próximos 10 a 15 años. Las compañías de automóviles y camiones están avanzando para incluir vehículos eléctricos como una parte integral y creciente de las líneas de productos actuales y futuras, lo que implica una creciente diversidad de vehículos limpios para los consumidores.  

Estos acontecimientos se ven reforzados por las inversiones del presidente Biden en Estados Unidos, que proporcionan recursos sin precedentes para apoyar el desarrollo y el mercado de tecnologías de vehículos limpios e infraestructura asociada y representan una inversión significativa en la expansión de la fabricación, venta y uso de vehículos de cero emisiones. A medida que avanzan estas tecnologías, los costos de las baterías continúan disminuyendo y el interés de los consumidores en los vehículos eléctricos continúa creciendo. Los logros legislativos del presidente Biden también están apoyando la generación crítica de electricidad limpia y la producción de hidrógeno limpio necesario para descarbonizar el transporte. La EPA consideró esta rápida innovación en su evaluación de que las normas de emisiones más estrictas son factibles.  

Las propuestas de la EPA se basan en un compromiso sólido e inclusivo de las partes interesadas con la industria, los trabajadores, los defensores y los líderes comunitarios. Las propuestas de la EPA se publicarán en el Registro Federal y estarán disponibles para revisión y comentarios del público, y la agencia continuará participando con el público y todas las partes interesadas como parte del proceso de desarrollo regulatorio. 

Regla propuesta: Normas de emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero para vehículos de servicio pesado – Fase 3(en inglés)  

Regla propuesta: Normas de emisiones multicontaminantes para modelos del año 2027 y posteriores de vehículos livianos y medianos(en inglés) 

Más información sobre justicia ambiental y transporte.(en inglés) 

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced new proposed federal vehicle emissions standards that will accelerate the ongoing transition to a clean vehicles future and tackle the climate crisis. The proposed standards would improve air quality for communities across the nation, especially communities that have borne the burden of polluted air. Together, these proposals would avoid nearly 10 billion tons of CO2 emissions, equivalent to more than twice the total U.S. CO2 emissions in 2022, while saving thousands of dollars over the lives of the vehicles meeting these new standards and reduce America’s reliance on approximately 20 billion barrels of oil imports.

“By proposing the most ambitious pollution standards ever for cars and trucks, we are delivering on the Biden-Harris Administration’s promise to protect people and the planet, securing critical reductions in dangerous air and climate pollution and ensuring significant economic benefits like lower fuel and maintenance costs for families,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “These ambitious standards are readily achievable thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, which is already driving historic progress to build more American-made electric cars and secure America’s global competitiveness.”

Since President Biden took office, the number of EV sales has tripled while the number of available models has doubled. There are over 130,000 public chargers across the country – a 40% increase over 2020. The private sector has also committed more than $120 billion in domestic EV and battery investments since President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. The new standards proposed today reflect the advancements and investments in clean vehicle manufacturing, which have been accelerated by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and complement the ongoing transition in the market towards cleaner vehicles.

The new proposed emissions standards for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles for model year (MY) 2027 and beyond would significantly reduce climate and other harmful air pollution, unlocking significant benefits for public health, especially in communities that have borne the greatest burden of poor air quality. At the same time, the proposed standards would lower maintenance costs and deliver significant fuel savings for drivers and truck operators.

• Through 2055, EPA projects that the proposed standards would avoid nearly 10 billion tons of CO2 emissions (equivalent to more than twice the total U.S. CO2 emissions in 2022).  The proposed standards would reduce other harmful air pollution and lead to fewer premature deaths and serious health effects such as hospital admissions due to respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses.
• By accelerating adoption of technologies that reduce fuel and maintenance costs alongside pollution, the proposed standards would save the average consumer $12,000 over the lifetime of a light-duty vehicle, as compared to a vehicle that was not subject to the new standards.
• Together, the proposals would reduce oil imports by approximately 20 billion barrels.
• Overall, EPA estimates that the benefits of the proposed standards would exceed costs by at least $1 trillion.

Light- and Medium-Duty Vehicle Proposed Standards

The first set of proposed standards announced today, the “Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium Duty Vehicles,” builds on EPA’s existing emissions standards for passenger cars and light trucks for MYs 2023 through 2026. The proposal retains the proven regulatory design of previous EPA standards for light-duty vehicles, but leverages advances in clean car technology to further reduce both climate pollution and smog- and soot-forming emissions.

Between 2027 and 2055, the total projected net benefits of the light- and medium-duty proposal range from $850 billion to $1.6 trillion. The proposal is expected to avoid 7.3 billion tons of CO2 emissions through 2055, equivalent to eliminating all greenhouse gas emissions from the entire current U.S. transportation sector for four years and would also deliver significant health benefits by reducing fine particulate matter that can cause premature death, heart attacks, respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses, aggravated asthma, and decreased lung function. EPA analysis shows that severe health impacts related to particulate matter exposure will also be reduced – including lung disorders (including cancer), heart disease, and premature mortality.

EPA’s proposal considers a broad suite of available emission control technologies, and the standards are designed to allow manufacturers to meet the performance-based standards however works best for their vehicle fleets. EPA projects that for the industry as a whole, the standards are expected to drive widespread use of filters to reduce gasoline particulate matter emissions and spur greater deployment of CO2-reducing technologies for gasoline-powered vehicles.

The proposed standards are also projected to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles. Depending on the compliance pathways manufacturers select to meet the standards, EPA projects that EVs could account for 67% of new light-duty vehicle sales and 46% of new medium-duty vehicle sales in MY 2032. The proposed MY 2032 light-duty standards are projected to result in a 56% reduction in projected fleet average greenhouse gas emissions target levels compared to the existing MY 2026 standards. The proposed MY 2032 medium-duty vehicle standards would result in a 44% reduction compared to MY 2026 standards.

Heavy-duty Truck Proposed Standards

The second set of proposed standards announced today, the “Greenhouse Gas Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles - Phase 3,” would apply to heavy-duty vocational vehicles (such as delivery trucks, refuse haulers or dump trucks, public utility trucks, transit, shuttle, school buses) and trucks typically used to haul freight. These standards would complement the criteria pollutant standards for MY 2027 and beyond heavy-duty vehicles that EPA finalized in December 2022 and represent the third phase of EPA’s Clean Trucks Plan.

These “Phase 3” greenhouse gas standards maintain the flexible structure that EPA previously designed through a robust stakeholder engagement process to reflect the diverse nature of the heavy-duty industry. Like the light- and medium-duty proposal, the heavy-duty proposal uses performance-based standards that enable manufacturers to achieve compliance efficiently based on the composition of their fleets.   

The projected net benefits of the heavy-duty proposal range from $180 billion to $320 billion. The proposal is projected to avoid 1.8 billion tons of CO2 through 2055, equivalent to eliminating all greenhouse gas emissions from the entire current U.S. transportation sector for an entire year, and deliver additional health benefits by reducing other pollutants from these vehicles. The standards would result in improved air quality nationwide, and those who live near major roadways and are disproportionately exposed to vehicle pollution and heavy-duty activity, which often includes low-income populations and communities of color, would benefit most directly.

Investing in America’s Clean Transportation Future

The proposed standards align with commitments made by automakers and U.S. states as they plan to accelerate clean vehicle technologies in the light- and medium-duty fleets in the next 10 to 15 years. Car and truck companies are moving to include electric vehicles as an integral and growing part of current and future product lines, leading to an increasing diversity of clean vehicles for consumers.

These developments are bolstered by President Biden’s investments in America, which provide unprecedented resources to support the development and market for clean vehicle technologies and associated infrastructure and represent significant investment in expanding the manufacture, sale, and use of zero-emission vehicles. As these technologies advance, battery costs continue to decline and consumer interest in electric vehicles continues to grow. President Biden’s legislative accomplishments are also supporting critical generation of clean electricity and production of clean hydrogen needed to decarbonize transportation. EPA considered this rapid innovation in its assessment that tighter emissions standards are feasible.

EPA’s proposals are informed by robust and inclusive stakeholder engagement with industry, labor, advocates, and community leaders. EPA’s proposals will be published in the Federal Register and available for public review and comment, and the agency will continue to engage with the public and all interested stakeholders as part of the regulatory development process.

Proposed Rule: Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles – Phase 3

Proposed Rule: Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles

More information on environmental justice and transportation.

CHICAGO (April 11, 2023) — Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center (DECC) will pay penalties totaling $118,195 to resolve alleged violations of federal requirements to report on the storage, use and releases of hazardous substances. The settlement follows an ammonia leak at the DECC and will help ensure that the facility is prepared for any future chemical emergencies.
 

“It is imperative for facilities storing hazardous materials such as anhydrous ammonia to follow the regulations designed to protect communities and the environment from potential risks,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “Improving the DECC’s preparedness for accidental chemical releases helps make Duluth safer.”
 

EPA alleges the DECC violated the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) and Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) by failing to report a July 2021 release of anhydrous ammonia. The leak was discovered in a cooling system at the curling club, resulting in the evacuation of most of the DECC. The evacuated areas reopened the following day. No injuries were reported.
 

EPA also alleges the DECC failed to submit required documentation, including safety data sheets, for sulfuric acid and a completed inventory of its on-site emergency and hazardous chemicals to the appropriate federal, state and local authorities for 2020 and 2021.
 

The DECC has certified that it is currently in compliance with CERCLA and EPCRA regulations.
 

Read more about EPCRA and hazardous chemical emergency release notification requirements.

Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a settlement with Imperial Irrigation District for violations of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) at its El Centro Generating Station site located in El Centro, California. The district will pay a $67,110 penalty and make facility improvements to ensure it complies with underground injection control program requirements.

“Facilities that include underground injection in their process must ensure compliance with permit conditions in order to protect underground sources of drinking water,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “EPA’s Underground Injection Control Program regulations help ensure these vital sources are preserved and violators of this program are subject to significant penalties.”

The El Centro Generating Station operates two Class I Non-Hazardous injection wells which are permitted according to EPA’s Underground Injection Control Program regulations for the disposal of facility process wastewater. EPA performed a virtual inspection of the site in December 2020 and found that the wells were out of compliance with three permit conditions: failure to maintain required pressure; failure to report pressure drops to EPA; and failure to provide continuous monitoring data.

In addition to the penalty, El Centro Generating Station will take the following steps:

1. Submit an inventory of all devices or gauges used at the facility.
2. Calibrate or replace monitoring equipment which has not been calibrated or replaced in more than 12 months.
3. Identify and repair any outstanding deficiencies at the facility.

EPA regulates the construction, operation, permitting, and closure of injection wells used to place fluids underground for storage or disposal. This enforcement action helps ensure continued operation at this site proceeds in compliance with El Centro Generating Station’s underground injection control permit.

Read the proposed settlement public notice here.

Learn how EPA is Protecting Drinking Water from Underground Injection.

Learn more about EPA Enforcement Actions and Results.

Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on Twitter.