LENEXA, KAN. (JULY 11, 2023) – Millenia Products LLC, doing business as La Palm Spa Products, will pay a $118,483 civil penalty for allegedly failing to properly label a pesticide product called “Hospital Disinfectant” and failing to register the product with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

EPA says that such failures are violations of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. The company is based in Wichita, Kansas, and distributes beauty, cosmetic, and personal care products nationwide.

“When pesticide producers and distributors fail to register and/or properly label products, consumers don’t know the product’s contents or how to safely use, store, or dispose of the product,” said Dave Cozad, director of EPA Region 7’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division. “This enforcement action demonstrates the Agency’s commitment to the safe use and distribution of pesticides.”

According to EPA, La Palm Spa Products sold an unregistered pesticide that used another company’s registration number without an agreement from the original company. The product’s label says, “for Use in Barber Shops, Equipment, Home, Office …” and was distributed mainly to spa and beauty supply companies. Further, EPA alleges that the labels on the “Hospital Disinfectant” did not include required safety information, including sufficient directions for use, danger warnings, and first aid information.

Under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, producers and distributors of pesticide products must register the products with EPA and must include required labeling on the products. Any product claiming to kill viruses and other pathogens (such as COVID-19) are considered “pesticides” under federal law. During the COVID-19 pandemic, EPA saw a significant increase in sales of unregistered disinfectant pesticides.

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Learn more about EPA and pesticides

Learn more about EPA Region 7

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WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the latest action to phase down the use of climate super-pollutant hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), issuing a final rule to implement a 40% reduction below historic levels from 2024 through 2028. The rule aligns with the bipartisan American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act’s goals to reduce the production and consumption of these climate-damaging chemicals by 85% by 2036 and help avoid up to 0.5 °C of global warming by 2100.

The final rule builds on the success of the 10% phasedown step implemented for 2022 and 2023, by establishing a similar allowance methodology to provide regulatory certainty to industry and stakeholders, ensuring the most efficient implementation under the ongoing phasedown. 

“This rulemaking is a critical next step in the Biden-Harris Administration’s ambitious plans to phase down climate super-pollutants and ensure the United States leads the way as countries around the world implement the Kigali Amendment,” said Joe Goffman, Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator of EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. “The U.S. HFC phasedown program, bolstered by domestic innovation to develop alternative chemicals and equipment, is paving the way for the United States to tackle climate change and strengthen global competitiveness.”

“President Biden has brought together a broad coalition of American manufacturers to work on next-generation technologies across refrigeration, HVAC systems, and more – helping us cool without contributing more to global warming,” said Ali Zaidi, White House National Climate Advisor. “With today’s final rule, this Administration is continuing to deliver win-wins for climate action and U.S. manufacturing competitiveness while ensuring that American workers reap the benefits of a growing global market for HFC alternatives.”

“As an original co-author of the bipartisan AIM Act, I applaud this action by EPA, which moves us closer to our goal of an 85 percent reduction in HFCs by 2036,” said U.S. Senator Tom Carper (Del.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “By phasing down the use of these super pollutants, we can both address climate change and support domestic manufacturing — a win-win. I commend the Biden-Harris Administration for their work to ensure that our nation remains a global leader in the fight against climate change and production of the next generation of refrigerants.”

“Phasing down hydrofluorocarbons is a critical component of our national climate action strategy,” Congressman Paul Tonko said. “That’s why I was proud to help lead the bipartisan AIM Act to seize this powerful opportunity to spur economic growth, protect consumers, and address these climate super pollutants. I applaud the Biden Administration’s latest action to keep this program on track by providing HFC producers and users the certainty they need to navigate this next stage of the phasedown. And I encourage additional steps under the law to further position U.S. manufacturers as the worldwide leaders in the clean energy economy of the future.”

“The Alliance appreciates the prompt and timely completion of the HFC allowance rule for the 2024 through 2028 period,” said Kevin Fay, Executive Director of the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy, “as this allows continued US leadership in the efficient global phasedown of HFCs, and smooths the transition to low-global warming potential chemicals and user technologies here and around the globe. The industry is appreciative of the attention and support provided by the EPA and the Biden Administration in this cooperative effort.”

“This latest allocation rule is a critical step in the implementation of the AIM Act schedule for phasing down hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants,” said AHRI President & CEO Stephen Yurek. “Our industry appreciates the work of the EPA and the timely issuance of this rule, as we prepare for the next HFC reduction step-down next January.”

“This demonstrates EPA’s commitment to stay on track to deliver on the Kigali Amendment goals and protect our planet from destructive superpollutants,” said Avipsa Mahapatra, Climate Campaign Lead at the Environmental Investigation Agency. “The U.S. is demonstrating leadership not just at home but also in international discussions at the Montreal Protocol to prevent illegal trade and unnecessary emissions, through robust implementation and enforcement of the HFC phasedown.”

The United States began this historic phasedown on January 1, 2022, with a reduction of HFC production and imports to 10% below historic baseline levels. Since then, allowances are needed to import and produce HFCs. Starting in 2024 the phasedown will be 40% below historic levels, a significant decrease in the number of available production and consumption allowances compared to previous years. HFC allowances for calendar year 2024 will be allocated by September 29, 2023. The phasedown schedule under this program is consistent with the schedule laid out in the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which the United States ratified in October 2022.

In addition to setting up an allowance allocation program, the HFC Phasedown Program has established robust enforcement mechanisms to ensure a level playing field for U.S. companies complying with the phasedown requirements. Since January 2022, the Interagency Task Force on Illegal HFC Trade, co-led by EPA and the Department of Homeland Security, has prevented illegal HFC shipments equivalent to more than 1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) at the border, which is equivalent to the CO2 emissions from over 206,000 homes’ electricity use for one year.

EPA also applies administrative consequences, such as revocation and retirement of allowances, for noncompliance that can be in addition to any civil or criminal enforcement action. EPA has finalized administrative consequences retiring more than 6.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) for calendar years 2022 and 2023 for companies that misreported data or imported HFCs without the requisite number of allowances.

EPA is planning two additional regulatory actions under the AIM Act in 2023. The first is a final rule placing restrictions on the use of HFCs in certain sectors to facilitate sector-based transitions to alternative chemicals, and the second is a proposed rule establishing certain requirements for the management of HFCs and HFC substitutes in equipment, such as air conditioners.

HFCs are a class of potent greenhouse gases commonly used in refrigeration and air conditioning, aerosols, and foam products. Their climate impact can be hundreds to thousands of times stronger than the same amount of carbon dioxide. 

Learn more about HFCs.

SAN FRANCISCO – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a settlement with Polypeptide Labs Inc. for claims of violations of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act tied to emissions at the company’s Torrance, California facility. Polypeptide has agreed to pay a $57,472 civil penalty and has certified it is now in compliance with the requirements of federal law.

“Failure to prevent emissions tied to hazardous waste and leaky equipment can pose a serious health risk to nearby communities. We won’t hesitate to enforce companies’ obligations to properly manage dangerous substances,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “This settlement with Polypeptide will help protect workers, the community, and the environment in the greater Los Angeles region.”

Polypeptide Labs Inc. is a manufacturer of polypeptides (chains of amino acids that form proteins) for academic institutions, biotech companies, and large pharmaceutical companies, and is a large quantity generator of hazardous waste. The EPA determined that Polypeptide violated federal law by failing to comply with air emissions standards for equipment leaks and failing to comply with air emission control standards for tanks.

Hazardous waste that is improperly managed poses a serious threat to human health and the environment. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, passed in 1976, was established to set up a framework for the proper management of hazardous waste. The act requires effective monitoring and control of air emissions from hazardous waste storage tanks, pipes, valves, and other equipment. These emissions can cause adverse health and environmental effects as well as contribute to climate change.

Learn more about the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

Learn more about the EPA's enforcement program and how to report possible violations of environmental laws and regulations to the EPA.

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

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Justice today announced a settlement with J.R. Simplot Company involving Simplot’s Don Plant manufacturing facility located near Pocatello, Idaho.

The settlement resolves allegations primarily under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) at the facility, including that Simplot failed to properly identify and manage certain waste streams as hazardous wastes. The settlement requires Simplot to implement process modifications designed to enable greater recovery and reuse of phosphate, a valuable resource. The settlement also requires Simplot to ensure that financial resources will be available when the time comes for environmentally sound closure of the facility. Simplot will also pay a civil penalty of $1.5 million.

“This is an important settlement which reduces the environmental impacts from one of the leading fertilizer manufacturers,” said Acting Assistant Administrator Larry Starfield of the EPA Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This settlement advances EPA’s goals by creating environmentally beneficial waste management practices and ensures that the U.S. taxpayer will not be responsible for future costs associated with closure of this facility. Additionally, this settlement ensures that any future expansion of Simplot’s operations will be conducted according to strict requirements to minimize impacts to surrounding communities, including the Fort Hall Indian Reservation.” 

“After our 2020 settlement with Simplot’s phosphoric acid and fertilizer plant in Wyoming, we are pleased to reach this settlement with Simplot’s other major phosphoric acid and fertilizer operation at the Don Plant in Pocatello, Idaho,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “This proposed consent decree will comprehensively address the waste management, air emissions and reporting issues EPA identified with respect to the Don Plant’s operations.”

“This settlement will bring important benefits to Idaho and the communities that have been affected by the Don Plant’s operations,” said Josh Hurwit, U.S. Attorney for the District of Idaho. “We are grateful that our state partner, the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, helped formulate and will oversee work that Simplot will fund to mitigate the impacts of its phosphate operations on water quality and the environment along the Portneuf River, working in cooperation with both the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes and the City of Pocatello.”

Simplot’s Don Plant facility manufactures phosphate products for agriculture and industry, including phosphoric acid and phosphate fertilizer, through processes that generate large quantities of acidic wastewater and a solid material called phosphogypsum. The phosphogypsum is deposited in a large pile known as a gypstack, and acidic wastewater is discharged to the gypstack. The gypstack, which has a capacity to hold several billion gallons of acidic wastewater, was fully lined in 2017 in accordance with a previous consent orders Simplot entered into with the State of Idaho and the United States.

The settlement also resolves alleged violations of the Clean Air Act (CAA) that relate to fluoride emissions from the facility, and of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) that relate to reporting and notification requirements for hazardous substances and toxic chemicals.

Under the settlement, Simplot agrees to implement specific waste management measures it has valued at nearly $150 million. Significantly, these measures include extensive new efforts to recover and reuse the phosphate content within these wastes and avoid their disposal in the gypstack. Simplot will implement requirements that ensure gypstack stability and containment that will protect the environment even should climate change result in more severe weather events. The settlement also includes a detailed plan setting the terms for the future closure and long-term care of the gypstack. The settlement requires Simplot to immediately secure and maintain approximately $108 million in dedicated financing to ensure that funding will be available when the facility is eventually closed.

Simplot also agrees to cease operation of the facility’s cooling towers no later than June 27, 2026, and replace them with one or more newly constructed cooling ponds, which will significantly reduce fluoride emissions to the air. Additionally, Simplot agrees to submit revised Toxic Release Inventory forms for the years 2004-2013 that include estimates of certain metal compounds manufactured, processed or otherwise used at the facility.

In addition to paying the $1.5 million civil penalty, Simplot is providing $200,000 in funding for environmental mitigation work that will be administered by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality in conjunction with the City of Pocatello and the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. The mitigation work will address habitat degradation on the Portneuf River that has resulted in part from excess phosphorus releases, especially from the facility’s formerly unlined gypstack.

EPA previously required through judicial and administrative settlements at 14 phosphate fertilizer facilities across the U.S. extensive injunctive relief, requiring the companies to establish financial assurance and bring their operations into compliance with RCRA.

A consent decree formalizing the settlement was lodged today in the U.S. District Court for Idaho and is subject to a 30-day public comment period and approval by the federal court. Read the consent decree on the Department of Justice website.

LENEXA, KAN. (JULY 11, 2023) – Millenia Products LLC, doing business as La Palm Spa Products, will pay a $118,483 civil penalty for allegedly failing to properly label a pesticide product called “Hospital Disinfectant” and failing to register the product with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

EPA says that such failures are violations of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. The company is based in Wichita, Kansas, and distributes beauty, cosmetic, and personal care products nationwide.

“When pesticide producers and distributors fail to register and/or properly label products, consumers don’t know the product’s contents or how to safely use, store, or dispose of the product,” said Dave Cozad, director of EPA Region 7’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division. “This enforcement action demonstrates the Agency’s commitment to the safe use and distribution of pesticides.”

According to EPA, La Palm Spa Products sold an unregistered pesticide that used another company’s registration number without an agreement from the original company. The product’s label says, “for Use in Barber Shops, Equipment, Home, Office …” and was distributed mainly to spa and beauty supply companies. Further, EPA alleges that the labels on the “Hospital Disinfectant” did not include required safety information, including sufficient directions for use, danger warnings, and first aid information.

Under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, producers and distributors of pesticide products must register the products with EPA and must include required labeling on the products. Any product claiming to kill viruses and other pathogens (such as COVID-19) are considered “pesticides” under federal law. During the COVID-19 pandemic, EPA saw a significant increase in sales of unregistered disinfectant pesticides.

# # #

Learn more about EPA and pesticides

Learn more about EPA Region 7

View all Region 7 news releases

Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook

Follow us on Twitter: @EPARegion7

LENEXA, KAN. (JULY 11, 2023) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 7 will hold a Public Availability Session and Community Meeting at Verona High School on Wednesday, July 19. Representatives from EPA and Missouri state agencies will be available for one-on-one discussions and questions regarding the results of the ethylene oxide air monitoring study conducted in Verona.

““We remain committed to keeping the city of Verona well-informed about issues affecting their community’s health and the environment,” said EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister. “EPA and our partners will be available to share information and answer questions in Verona on July 19.”

The availability session will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the community meeting and presentation at 7 p.m. After the presentation, EPA will facilitate a question-and-answer session with the attending agencies until 9:30 p.m.

The purpose of the meeting is to provide results from the ethylene oxide air monitoring study performed in Verona, and will also include a discussion of recent activities related to the BCP Ingredients Inc. facility in Verona. 

This meeting takes place following a Public Availability Session and Community Meeting in October 2022, where EPA provided an update on air pollution and groundwater contamination in Verona. EPA held additional meetings with the city of Verona in 2021 and 2019 to inform the general public about health risks associated with ethylene oxide emissions, and to provide an update on the groundwater investigation at the Syntex Facility Superfund Site.

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

Public Availability Session: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
(Break from 6:30 to 7 p.m.)
 
Community Meeting: 7 to 9:30 p.m.
 
Both sessions will be held at:
Verona R-7 High School Gymnasium
101 E. Ella Street
Verona, Missouri

EPA is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. For reasonable accommodations at the Public Availability Session and Community Meeting, please contact Euleashia Embry at: embry.euleashia@epa.gov.

# # #

Learn more about EPA Region 7

View all Region 7 news releases

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WASHINGTON — On October 17 and 18, 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will hold a virtual public workshop to receive stakeholder input on the detection, measurement and characterization of lead-based paint to support efforts to reduce lead exposure. EPA and HUD will use information received during the workshop to inform their joint effort to revisit the federal definition of lead-based paint and propose and finalize a revised definition, if necessary.

The workshop will cover several topics related to low levels of lead in existing paint, including the potential health effects, the relationship between lead-based paint and dust-lead, possible exposure pathways (e.g., renovation and maintenance, deteriorating paint and direct ingestion), and emerging detection and measurement technologies used to quantify lead in paint. Additionally, EPA and HUD also seek any available new information on lead-based paint characteristics and medical evidence related to low levels of lead in paint to help with EPA and HUD’s reevaluation of the definition of lead-based paint. The information shared will increase awareness of exposure pathways that must be considered, inform models that examine the exposure to lead at various concentrations and provide greater context for the impacts a lower definition may have.

“Too many children are still at risk of lead exposure, particularly in underserved communities,” said EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Assistant Administrator Michal Freedhoff. “As EPA and HUD work together to reduce childhood lead exposure, we need to follow the science to ensure our definition of lead-based paint works to protect our communities and children.” 

“With children spending so much of their time at home, a significant part of achieving environmental justice for American families is ensuring that the housing they live in is healthy and safe,” said Matthew Ammon, Director, HUD Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes. “Determining whether to revise the definition of residential lead-based paint is a critical part of achieving HUD’s lead safety goals.”

EPA and HUD define lead-based paint as paint with lead levels greater than or equal to one milligram per square centimeter (mg/cm²), or more than 0.5% by weight. Although lead-based paint was banned for residential use in 1978, many homes built before 1978 still contain lead-based paint, the most significant source of childhood lead exposure. EPA and HUD have prioritized addressing the dangers of childhood lead exposure through EPA’s 2022 Lead Strategy and HUD’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan Focus Areas, both of which commit to reducing exposure to lead in homes with lead-based paint. EPA enforces the definition through its Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) program and Lead-Based Paint Activities (LBPA) program and HUD through its Lead-Safe Housing Rule (LSHR).

Register to present or attend

EPA and HUD are seeking presenters with specific expertise for this workshop, as noted above. Please review the abstract submission guidelines, which include potential presentation topics, before applying. Abstracts for 15 to 20-minute presentations will be accepted until August 4. To apply to present at the workshop, please email EPA-workshops@icf.com.

EPA and HUD encourage their state, local and Tribal regulatory partners; LBPA, RRP and LSHR experts and professionals; paint manufacturers; lead detection and measurement technology developers and manufacturers; lead test kit developers and users; environmental and community organizations; property owners and managers; real estate agents; testing firms and laboratories; academic institutions; and members of the public to attend the workshop. Attendees will have an opportunity to submit questions for the presenters and panelists. EPA will accept attendance registrations until September 29.

Visit EPA’s 2023 Lead-Based Paint Technical Workshop page for more information, including abstract submission guidelines and instructions for registering to attend the workshop.

SAN FRANCISCO – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a settlement with Polypeptide Labs Inc. for claims of violations of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act tied to emissions at the company’s Torrance, California facility. Polypeptide has agreed to pay a $57,472 civil penalty and has certified it is now in compliance with the requirements of federal law.

“Failure to prevent emissions tied to hazardous waste and leaky equipment can pose a serious health risk to nearby communities. We won’t hesitate to enforce companies’ obligations to properly manage dangerous substances,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “This settlement with Polypeptide will help protect workers, the community, and the environment in the greater Los Angeles region.”

Polypeptide Labs Inc. is a manufacturer of polypeptides (chains of amino acids that form proteins) for academic institutions, biotech companies, and large pharmaceutical companies, and is a large quantity generator of hazardous waste. The EPA determined that Polypeptide violated federal law by failing to comply with air emissions standards for equipment leaks and failing to comply with air emission control standards for tanks.

Hazardous waste that is improperly managed poses a serious threat to human health and the environment. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, passed in 1976, was established to set up a framework for the proper management of hazardous waste. The act requires effective monitoring and control of air emissions from hazardous waste storage tanks, pipes, valves, and other equipment. These emissions can cause adverse health and environmental effects as well as contribute to climate change.

Learn more about the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

Learn more about the EPA's enforcement program and how to report possible violations of environmental laws and regulations to the EPA.

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

NEW YORK - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) invites you to join a public session on the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) and protection priorities at the Rochester Museum and Science Center on Wednesday July 19, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

“The Great Lakes are a national treasure and a vital source of drinking water, recreation, and economic opportunity for millions of people,” said Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “Our team wants to hear from you on how we can work together to protect and restore this precious resource for current and future generations. Your input will help shape our work in the Great Lakes.”

The GLRI is the largest investment in the Great Lakes in two decades. It is a collaborative effort of 16 federal agencies, including EPA, to address the most significant environmental concerns in the Great Lakes ecosystem and to accelerate progress toward long-term goals.

EPA and its partners are developing an updated action plan for the GLRI, covering 2025-2029.

The action plan will guide restoration and protection activities for the next five years. As part of this process, EPA and its partners want to hear from you on:

• How to improve the action plan over previous versions
• What key priorities to include in the action plan
• How to better incorporate environmental justice and the impacts of climate change in the action plan

At the public session, you will have an opportunity to:

• Learn about the GLRI and its achievements
• Interact directly with EPA staff and ask questions
• Provide your comments and feedback

For more information on the GLRI, please visit the program’s website.

To learn more about the development of the GLRI Action Plan, please visit here.

For more information about this session please reach out to Michael Basile, EPA Public Affairs at (646)369-0055 or basile.michael@epa.gov.

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 the latest action to phase down the use of climate super-pollutant hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), issuing a final rule to implement a 40% reduction below historic levels from 2024 through 2028. The rule aligns with the bipartisan American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act’s goals to reduce the production and consumption of these climate-damaging chemicals by 85% by 2036 and help avoid up to 0.5 °C of global warming by 2100.

The final rule builds on the success of the 10% phasedown step implemented for 2022 and 2023, by establishing a similar allowance methodology to provide regulatory certainty to industry and stakeholders, ensuring the most efficient implementation under the ongoing phasedown. 

“This rulemaking is a critical next step in the Biden-Harris Administration’s ambitious plans to phase down climate super-pollutants and ensure the United States leads the way as countries around the world implement the Kigali Amendment,” said Joe Goffman, Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator of EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. “The U.S. HFC phasedown program, bolstered by domestic innovation to develop alternative chemicals and equipment, is paving the way for the United States to tackle climate change and strengthen global competitiveness.”

“President Biden has brought together a broad coalition of American manufacturers to work on next-generation technologies across refrigeration, HVAC systems, and more – helping us cool without contributing more to global warming,” said Ali Zaidi, White House National Climate Advisor. “With today’s final rule, this Administration is continuing to deliver win-wins for climate action and U.S. manufacturing competitiveness while ensuring that American workers reap the benefits of a growing global market for HFC alternatives.”

“As an original co-author of the bipartisan AIM Act, I applaud this action by EPA, which moves us closer to our goal of an 85 percent reduction in HFCs by 2036,” said U.S. Senator Tom Carper (Del.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “By phasing down the use of these super pollutants, we can both address climate change and support domestic manufacturing — a win-win. I commend the Biden-Harris Administration for their work to ensure that our nation remains a global leader in the fight against climate change and production of the next generation of refrigerants.”

“Phasing down hydrofluorocarbons is a critical component of our national climate action strategy,” Congressman Paul Tonko said. “That’s why I was proud to help lead the bipartisan AIM Act to seize this powerful opportunity to spur economic growth, protect consumers, and address these climate super pollutants. I applaud the Biden Administration’s latest action to keep this program on track by providing HFC producers and users the certainty they need to navigate this next stage of the phasedown. And I encourage additional steps under the law to further position U.S. manufacturers as the worldwide leaders in the clean energy economy of the future.”

“The Alliance appreciates the prompt and timely completion of the HFC allowance rule for the 2024 through 2028 period,” said Kevin Fay, Executive Director of the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy, “as this allows continued US leadership in the efficient global phasedown of HFCs, and smooths the transition to low-global warming potential chemicals and user technologies here and around the globe. The industry is appreciative of the attention and support provided by the EPA and the Biden Administration in this cooperative effort.”

“This latest allocation rule is a critical step in the implementation of the AIM Act schedule for phasing down hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants,” said AHRI President & CEO Stephen Yurek. “Our industry appreciates the work of the EPA and the timely issuance of this rule, as we prepare for the next HFC reduction step-down next January.”

“This demonstrates EPA’s commitment to stay on track to deliver on the Kigali Amendment goals and protect our planet from destructive superpollutants,” said Avipsa Mahapatra, Climate Campaign Lead at the Environmental Investigation Agency. “The U.S. is demonstrating leadership not just at home but also in international discussions at the Montreal Protocol to prevent illegal trade and unnecessary emissions, through robust implementation and enforcement of the HFC phasedown.”

The United States began this historic phasedown on January 1, 2022, with a reduction of HFC production and imports to 10% below historic baseline levels. Since then, allowances are needed to import and produce HFCs. Starting in 2024 the phasedown will be 40% below historic levels, a significant decrease in the number of available production and consumption allowances compared to previous years. HFC allowances for calendar year 2024 will be allocated by September 29, 2023. The phasedown schedule under this program is consistent with the schedule laid out in the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which the United States ratified in October 2022.

In addition to setting up an allowance allocation program, the HFC Phasedown Program has established robust enforcement mechanisms to ensure a level playing field for U.S. companies complying with the phasedown requirements. Since January 2022, the Interagency Task Force on Illegal HFC Trade, co-led by EPA and the Department of Homeland Security, has prevented illegal HFC shipments equivalent to more than 1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) at the border, which is equivalent to the CO2 emissions from over 206,000 homes’ electricity use for one year.

EPA also applies administrative consequences, such as revocation and retirement of allowances, for noncompliance that can be in addition to any civil or criminal enforcement action. EPA has finalized administrative consequences retiring more than 6.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) for calendar years 2022 and 2023 for companies that misreported data or imported HFCs without the requisite number of allowances.

EPA is planning two additional regulatory actions under the AIM Act in 2023. The first is a final rule placing restrictions on the use of HFCs in certain sectors to facilitate sector-based transitions to alternative chemicals, and the second is a proposed rule establishing certain requirements for the management of HFCs and HFC substitutes in equipment, such as air conditioners.

HFCs are a class of potent greenhouse gases commonly used in refrigeration and air conditioning, aerosols, and foam products. Their climate impact can be hundreds to thousands of times stronger than the same amount of carbon dioxide. 

Learn more about HFCs.

WASHINGTON  – Pursuant to a settlement modification with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Justice, the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) has agreed to make major improvements and upgrades to the island’s sanitary collection system and wastewater treatment plants. These upgrades will allow the water utility to focus its resources on a reduced number of better-operated and more efficient facilities; meet certain revised schedules for specified wastewater infrastructure projects; and execute 17 new wastewater projects, which, on their own, are estimated to cost $534 million. PRASA has also agreed to increase transparency with the public regarding the occurrence of Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs).

This modification updates and expands upon several obligations contained in a 2016 Consent Decree.  EPA and DOJ agreed to modify the 2016 agreement in consideration of damages caused by hurricanes Irma and Maria, as well as changed financial circumstances that made it difficult for PRASA to comply with certain requirements and deadlines. The improvements will supplement projects that are currently being implemented and part of PRASA's Capital Improvement Program.

"The people of Puerto Rico deserve access to clean water and major improvements to their water infrastructure are overdue,” said Larry Starfield, Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This revised agreement requires PRASA to improve the collection and treatment of domestic sewage and wastewater, which is key to public health.”

The injunctive relief in the Consent Decree and this modification is estimated to amount to over $1.2 billion of infrastructure projects, including consolidation of several facilities that were affected by the hurricanes into more resilient plants, and construction or improvement of sanitary sewer infrastructure at underserved communities to address environmental justice concerns. The agreement ensures the decommissioning of antiquated and ineffective wastewater treatment plants at Arecibo and Camuy along with the diversion of the wastewater to the Barceloneta Wastewater Treatment Plant, a secondary and more efficient treatment facility. 

Certain of PRASA’s previous obligations remain unchanged, including its obligation to undertake a comprehensive operation and maintenance program in the Puerto Nuevo sanitary sewer system and a comprehensive analysis of the system to determine whether further investments must be made to ensure that the system is brought into legal compliance, and to conduct immediate repairs at specific areas of concern. For the Puerto Nuevo sewer system, the public will be provided with information on PRASA’s website concerning where CSOs occur within the system, and there will be extensions of time to complete reconnaissance and cleaning activities for priority areas of concern identified within the sewer system.

The settlement, lodged on June 29, 2023 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico, is subject to a 30-day public comment period and subsequent approval by the federal court. Read the settlement on the Department of Justice website.

DALLAS, TEXAS (July 10th, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that the Houston Health Department will receive grant funding to support community monitoring of hazardous air pollutants in high-risk areas and promote air quality providing information to regulators and residents. Under the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, the grant of $499,982 will go toward community air monitoring projects in the Houston area.

“The Inflation Reduction Act has continued to fund critical projects that improve public health and assist in overcoming environmental challenges,” said Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “Together with this grant funding we are proud to see communities, representatives and environmental groups unite in supporting a healthy environment for all. I would like to thank all the groups and individuals who helped support this project and for keeping our communities safe and healthy.”  

“I’m proud of these nearly $500,000 that will enhance the air quality monitoring in high-risk environmental justice communities in my district,” said Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia. “This will help improve the Houston area’s local air quality and educate residents on the hazards of air pollutants. This is a direct result of President Biden’s Investing in America act.”

“This grant will enhance air quality monitoring in communities that have long experienced disproportionate impacts from air pollution and other environmental injustices throughout the 18th Congressional district, such as Fifth Ward, Galena Park, Pleasantville & Sunnyside,” said Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Many individuals in these communities are unaware of the quality of air that they are breathing in, which can have long term and life-threatening health impacts.”

 “Sunnyside, a historically Black neighborhood in Houston founded over 100 years ago, has endured environmental discrimination throughout its existence. It became the location for a garbage incinerator, multiple landfills and various industrial plants that serviced the city. After rightful protestations and determined efforts, significant improvements have been made in Sunnyside. One notable groundbreaking project that received federal funding, I was able to secure, is helping to transform a closed landfill into a Solar Farm,” said Congressman Al Green. “However, the air quality in Sunnyside remains a concern. In 2021 alone, the Houston Health Department received over 40 air pollution complaints from the area’s ZIP codes. EPA’s 2014 data indicates a known cancer risk in this area and the risk has increased by 218%. I am gratified that this project aims to enhance air quality monitoring in the area, educating the community accordingly, and generating sustainable solutions for air quality concerns. I thank the Environmental Protection Agency for taking these steps to address the environmental discrimination Sunnyside has experienced for far too long.”

This project will allow the Health Department alongside community members, to gather information about the sources and levels of the toxic air pollution in this community,” said Dr. Loren Hopkins, Chief Environmental Science Officer of the Houston Health Department. “We will use that information to inform changes in regulation to improve the health of individuals in these communities.

The City of Houston’s community monitoring will target four hazardous air pollutants that potentially pose risk to communities which are 1,3-butadiene, benzene, formaldehyde, and ethylene oxide. The project has three components, monitoring, education, and action, each to be carried out in partnership with the City of Houston Health Department and community partners. Secondly, a community-focused mobile air monitoring platform approach will be utilized by the community to monitor for air toxic emissions. Lastly, a third monitoring approach will monitor for concentrations of formaldehyde for one year at or in the vicinity of the Milby Park fixed site monitor. Additional areas of focus will include areas such as Meadowbrook/Allendale, Park Place, and Pecan Park and neighborhoods containing the ZIP codes 77012 and 77017. With these goals in mind, each component is crafted to be jointly led by the health department and community partnership as a team.  

This project has shown support from local environmental and grassroots groups such as the Air Alliance Houston, Houston Wilderness, Community Lattice and neighborhood group Botanic Gardens. Several school districts and a city council member have shown support such as the Milby and Chavez High School and Council Member Robert Gallegos. The partnership between these groups and the Houston Health Department will assist with reducing harmful air pollutants in the air and strive to educate the public on the dangers of toxic air emissions.  

The grant is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic funding packages to invest in and strengthen our nation’s communities.

Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homepage.

WASHINGTON  – Pursuant to a settlement modification with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Justice, the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) has agreed to make major improvements and upgrades to the island’s sanitary collection system and wastewater treatment plants. These upgrades will allow the water utility to focus its resources on a reduced number of better-operated and more efficient facilities; meet certain revised schedules for specified wastewater infrastructure projects; and execute 17 new wastewater projects, which, on their own, are estimated to cost $534 million. PRASA has also agreed to increase transparency with the public regarding the occurrence of Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs).

This modification updates and expands upon several obligations contained in a 2016 Consent Decree.  EPA and DOJ agreed to modify the 2016 agreement in consideration of damages caused by hurricanes Irma and Maria, as well as changed financial circumstances that made it difficult for PRASA to comply with certain requirements and deadlines. The improvements will supplement projects that are currently being implemented and part of PRASA's Capital Improvement Program.

"The people of Puerto Rico deserve access to clean water and major improvements to their water infrastructure are overdue,” said Larry Starfield, Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This revised agreement requires PRASA to improve the collection and treatment of domestic sewage and wastewater, which is key to public health.”

The injunctive relief in the Consent Decree and this modification is estimated to amount to over $1.2 billion of infrastructure projects, including consolidation of several facilities that were affected by the hurricanes into more resilient plants, and construction or improvement of sanitary sewer infrastructure at underserved communities to address environmental justice concerns. The agreement ensures the decommissioning of antiquated and ineffective wastewater treatment plants at Arecibo and Camuy along with the diversion of the wastewater to the Barceloneta Wastewater Treatment Plant, a secondary and more efficient treatment facility. 

Certain of PRASA’s previous obligations remain unchanged, including its obligation to undertake a comprehensive operation and maintenance program in the Puerto Nuevo sanitary sewer system and a comprehensive analysis of the system to determine whether further investments must be made to ensure that the system is brought into legal compliance, and to conduct immediate repairs at specific areas of concern. For the Puerto Nuevo sewer system, the public will be provided with information on PRASA’s website concerning where CSOs occur within the system, and there will be extensions of time to complete reconnaissance and cleaning activities for priority areas of concern identified within the sewer system.

The settlement, lodged on June 29, 2023 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico, is subject to a 30-day public comment period and subsequent approval by the federal court. Read the settlement on the Department of Justice website.

DALLAS, TEXAS (July 10th, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that the Houston Health Department will receive grant funding to support community monitoring of hazardous air pollutants in high-risk areas and promote air quality providing information to regulators and residents. Under the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, the grant of $499,982 will go toward community air monitoring projects in the Houston area.

“The Inflation Reduction Act has continued to fund critical projects that improve public health and assist in overcoming environmental challenges,” said Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “Together with this grant funding we are proud to see communities, representatives and environmental groups unite in supporting a healthy environment for all. I would like to thank all the groups and individuals who helped support this project and for keeping our communities safe and healthy.”  

“I’m proud of these nearly $500,000 that will enhance the air quality monitoring in high-risk environmental justice communities in my district,” said Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia. “This will help improve the Houston area’s local air quality and educate residents on the hazards of air pollutants. This is a direct result of President Biden’s Investing in America act.”

“This grant will enhance air quality monitoring in communities that have long experienced disproportionate impacts from air pollution and other environmental injustices throughout the 18th Congressional district, such as Fifth Ward, Galena Park, Pleasantville & Sunnyside,” said Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Many individuals in these communities are unaware of the quality of air that they are breathing in, which can have long term and life-threatening health impacts.”

 “Sunnyside, a historically Black neighborhood in Houston founded over 100 years ago, has endured environmental discrimination throughout its existence. It became the location for a garbage incinerator, multiple landfills and various industrial plants that serviced the city. After rightful protestations and determined efforts, significant improvements have been made in Sunnyside. One notable groundbreaking project that received federal funding, I was able to secure, is helping to transform a closed landfill into a Solar Farm,” said Congressman Al Green. “However, the air quality in Sunnyside remains a concern. In 2021 alone, the Houston Health Department received over 40 air pollution complaints from the area’s ZIP codes. EPA’s 2014 data indicates a known cancer risk in this area and the risk has increased by 218%. I am gratified that this project aims to enhance air quality monitoring in the area, educating the community accordingly, and generating sustainable solutions for air quality concerns. I thank the Environmental Protection Agency for taking these steps to address the environmental discrimination Sunnyside has experienced for far too long.”

This project will allow the Health Department alongside community members, to gather information about the sources and levels of the toxic air pollution in this community,” said Dr. Loren Hopkins, Chief Environmental Science Officer of the Houston Health Department. “We will use that information to inform changes in regulation to improve the health of individuals in these communities.

The City of Houston’s community monitoring will target four hazardous air pollutants that potentially pose risk to communities which are 1,3-butadiene, benzene, formaldehyde, and ethylene oxide. The project has three components, monitoring, education, and action, each to be carried out in partnership with the City of Houston Health Department and community partners. Secondly, a community-focused mobile air monitoring platform approach will be utilized by the community to monitor for air toxic emissions. Lastly, a third monitoring approach will monitor for concentrations of formaldehyde for one year at or in the vicinity of the Milby Park fixed site monitor. Additional areas of focus will include areas such as Meadowbrook/Allendale, Park Place, and Pecan Park and neighborhoods containing the ZIP codes 77012 and 77017. With these goals in mind, each component is crafted to be jointly led by the health department and community partnership as a team.  

This project has shown support from local environmental and grassroots groups such as the Air Alliance Houston, Houston Wilderness, Community Lattice and neighborhood group Botanic Gardens. Several school districts and a city council member have shown support such as the Milby and Chavez High School and Council Member Robert Gallegos. The partnership between these groups and the Houston Health Department will assist with reducing harmful air pollutants in the air and strive to educate the public on the dangers of toxic air emissions.  

The grant is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic funding packages to invest in and strengthen our nation’s communities.

Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homepage.

WASHINGTON (10 de julio de 2023) De conformidad con una modificación del acuerdo con la Agencia de Protección Ambiental de Estados Unidos (EPA, por sus siglas en inglés) y el Departamento de Justicia (DOJ) de los Estados Unidos, la Autoridad de Acueductos y Alcantarillados de Puerto Rico (AAA) acordó realizar mejoras y cambios importantes al sistema de recolección sanitaria y las plantas de tratamiento de aguas residuales de la isla. Estas mejoras permitirán a la empresa de abastecimiento de agua concentrar sus recursos en un número reducido de instalaciones mejor operadas y más eficientes; cumplir con ciertos calendarios revisados para cumplir proyectos específicos de infraestructura de aguas residuales; y ejecutar 17 nuevos proyectos de aguas residuales, que, por sí solos, se estima que costarán $534 millones. La AAA de Puerto Rico también ha acordado aumentar la transparencia con el público con respecto a la ocurrencia de desbordamientos combinados de alcantarillado (CSO).

Esta modificación actualiza y amplía varias obligaciones contenidas en un Decreto de Consentimiento de 2016.  La EPA y el DOJ acordaron modificar el acuerdo de 2016 en consideración de los daños causados por los huracanes Irma y María, así como las circunstancias financieras cambiantes que dificultaron que la AAA cumpliera con ciertos requisitos y plazos. Las mejoras complementarán los proyectos que se están implementando actualmente y forman parte del Programa de Mejoras de Capital de la AAA.

“La gente de Puerto Rico merece tener acceso a agua limpia y recibir mejoras importantes en su infraestructura de agua están pasado tiempo, comentó Larry Starfield, Administrador Asistente Interino de la Oficina de Acatamiento y Garantía de Cumplimiento de la EPA. “Este acuerdo revisado requiere que la AAA mejore la recolección y el tratamiento de aguas de alcantarillado y aguas residuales domésticas, que es clave para la salud pública”.

Se estima que la medida cautelar en el Decreto de Consentimiento y esta modificación asciende a más de $1,200 millones en proyectos de infraestructura, incluida la consolidación de varias instalaciones que se vieron afectadas por los huracanes en plantas más resistentes, y la construcción o mejora de la infraestructura de alcantarillado sanitario en comunidades desatendidas para abordar las preocupaciones de justicia ambiental. El acuerdo garantiza el desmantelamiento de plantas de tratamiento de aguas residuales anticuadas e ineficaces en Arecibo y Camuy junto con el desvío de las aguas residuales a la Planta de Tratamiento de Aguas Residuales de Barceloneta, una instalación de tratamiento secundaria y más eficiente. 

Algunas de las obligaciones anteriores de la AAA permanecen sin cambios, incluyendo su obligación de llevar a cabo un programa integral de operación y mantenimiento en el sistema de alcantarillado sanitario de Puerto Nuevo y un análisis exhaustivo del sistema para determinar si se deben realizar más inversiones para garantizar que el sistema cumpla con la ley y para realizar reparaciones inmediatas en áreas específicas de preocupación. Para el sistema de alcantarillado de Puerto Nuevo, se proporcionará al público información en el sitio web de la AAA sobre dónde ocurren los CSO dentro del sistema, y habrá prórrogas en el plazo para concluir las actividades de reconocimiento y limpieza en las áreas prioritarias de preocupación identificadas dentro del sistema de alcantarillado.

El acuerdo, presentado el 29 de junio en el Tribunal de Distrito de los Estados Unidos para el Distrito de Puerto Rico, está sujeto a un periodo de comentarios públicos de 30 días y la posterior aprobación del tribunal federal. El acuerdo estará disponible para su visualización en https://www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees

PHILADELPHIA (July 10, 2023) – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz joined the Upper Mattaponi Indian Tribe, at their Tribal Center in King William, Virginia, today to highlight a $449,988 grant the Tribe will use for a community air monitoring project.  This is the first air grant that EPA has awarded to an Indian Tribe in the Mid-Atlantic Region.

“Recent experiences with poor air quality resulting from wildfires and ozone alert days underscores the importance of community air monitoring, especially when vulnerable communities are being hit the worst,” said Ortiz. “This funding will give the Upper Mattaponi Tribe the data they need to better protect the health of their community.”   

The Upper Mattaponi Tribe will use the funding to build the Tribal government’s capacity to establish and manage their own air quality program. The project will include training Tribal citizens in air quality knowledge and skills, developing a community advisory board, and installing and maintaining an air quality monitoring station.

The project is among 132 air monitoring projects in 37 states receiving a total of $53.4 million from President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act and American Rescue Plan to enhance air quality monitoring in communities across the United States.

PHILADELPHIA (July 10, 2023) – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz joined the Upper Mattaponi Indian Tribe, at their Tribal Center in King William, Virginia, today to highlight a $449,988 grant the Tribe will use for a community air monitoring project.  This is the first air grant that EPA has awarded to an Indian Tribe in the Mid-Atlantic Region.

“Recent experiences with poor air quality resulting from wildfires and ozone alert days underscores the importance of community air monitoring, especially when vulnerable communities are being hit the worst,” said Ortiz. “This funding will give the Upper Mattaponi Tribe the data they need to better protect the health of their community.”   

The Upper Mattaponi Tribe will use the funding to build the Tribal government’s capacity to establish and manage their own air quality program. The project will include training Tribal citizens in air quality knowledge and skills, developing a community advisory board, and installing and maintaining an air quality monitoring station.

The project is among 132 air monitoring projects in 37 states receiving a total of $53.4 million from President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act and American Rescue Plan to enhance air quality monitoring in communities across the United States.

WASHINGTON (10 de julio de 2023) De conformidad con una modificación del acuerdo con la Agencia de Protección Ambiental de Estados Unidos (EPA, por sus siglas en inglés) y el Departamento de Justicia (DOJ) de los Estados Unidos, la Autoridad de Acueductos y Alcantarillados de Puerto Rico (AAA) acordó realizar mejoras y cambios importantes al sistema de recolección sanitaria y las plantas de tratamiento de aguas residuales de la isla. Estas mejoras permitirán a la empresa de abastecimiento de agua concentrar sus recursos en un número reducido de instalaciones mejor operadas y más eficientes; cumplir con ciertos calendarios revisados para cumplir proyectos específicos de infraestructura de aguas residuales; y ejecutar 17 nuevos proyectos de aguas residuales, que, por sí solos, se estima que costarán $534 millones. La AAA de Puerto Rico también ha acordado aumentar la transparencia con el público con respecto a la ocurrencia de desbordamientos combinados de alcantarillado (CSO).

Esta modificación actualiza y amplía varias obligaciones contenidas en un Decreto de Consentimiento de 2016.  La EPA y el DOJ acordaron modificar el acuerdo de 2016 en consideración de los daños causados por los huracanes Irma y María, así como las circunstancias financieras cambiantes que dificultaron que la AAA cumpliera con ciertos requisitos y plazos. Las mejoras complementarán los proyectos que se están implementando actualmente y forman parte del Programa de Mejoras de Capital de la AAA.

“La gente de Puerto Rico merece tener acceso a agua limpia y recibir mejoras importantes en su infraestructura de agua están pasado tiempo, comentó Larry Starfield, Administrador Asistente Interino de la Oficina de Acatamiento y Garantía de Cumplimiento de la EPA. “Este acuerdo revisado requiere que la AAA mejore la recolección y el tratamiento de aguas de alcantarillado y aguas residuales domésticas, que es clave para la salud pública”.

Se estima que la medida cautelar en el Decreto de Consentimiento y esta modificación asciende a más de $1,200 millones en proyectos de infraestructura, incluida la consolidación de varias instalaciones que se vieron afectadas por los huracanes en plantas más resistentes, y la construcción o mejora de la infraestructura de alcantarillado sanitario en comunidades desatendidas para abordar las preocupaciones de justicia ambiental. El acuerdo garantiza el desmantelamiento de plantas de tratamiento de aguas residuales anticuadas e ineficaces en Arecibo y Camuy junto con el desvío de las aguas residuales a la Planta de Tratamiento de Aguas Residuales de Barceloneta, una instalación de tratamiento secundaria y más eficiente. 

Algunas de las obligaciones anteriores de la AAA permanecen sin cambios, incluyendo su obligación de llevar a cabo un programa integral de operación y mantenimiento en el sistema de alcantarillado sanitario de Puerto Nuevo y un análisis exhaustivo del sistema para determinar si se deben realizar más inversiones para garantizar que el sistema cumpla con la ley y para realizar reparaciones inmediatas en áreas específicas de preocupación. Para el sistema de alcantarillado de Puerto Nuevo, se proporcionará al público información en el sitio web de la AAA sobre dónde ocurren los CSO dentro del sistema, y habrá prórrogas en el plazo para concluir las actividades de reconocimiento y limpieza en las áreas prioritarias de preocupación identificadas dentro del sistema de alcantarillado.

El acuerdo, presentado el 29 de junio en el Tribunal de Distrito de los Estados Unidos para el Distrito de Puerto Rico, está sujeto a un periodo de comentarios públicos de 30 días y la posterior aprobación del tribunal federal. El acuerdo estará disponible para su visualización en https://www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees

WASHINGTON  – Pursuant to a settlement modification with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Justice, the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) has agreed to make major improvements and upgrades to the island’s sanitary collection system and wastewater treatment plants. These upgrades will allow the water utility to focus its resources on a reduced number of better-operated and more efficient facilities; meet certain revised schedules for specified wastewater infrastructure projects; and execute 17 new wastewater projects, which, on their own, are estimated to cost $534 million. PRASA has also agreed to increase transparency with the public regarding the occurrence of Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs).

This modification updates and expands upon several obligations contained in a 2016 Consent Decree.  EPA and DOJ agreed to modify the 2016 agreement in consideration of damages caused by hurricanes Irma and Maria, as well as changed financial circumstances that made it difficult for PRASA to comply with certain requirements and deadlines. The improvements will supplement projects that are currently being implemented and part of PRASA's Capital Improvement Program.

"The people of Puerto Rico deserve access to clean water and major improvements to their water infrastructure are overdue,” said Larry Starfield, Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This revised agreement requires PRASA to improve the collection and treatment of domestic sewage and wastewater, which is key to public health.”

The injunctive relief in the Consent Decree and this modification is estimated to amount to over $1.2 billion of infrastructure projects, including consolidation of several facilities that were affected by the hurricanes into more resilient plants, and construction or improvement of sanitary sewer infrastructure at underserved communities to address environmental justice concerns. The agreement ensures the decommissioning of antiquated and ineffective wastewater treatment plants at Arecibo and Camuy along with the diversion of the wastewater to the Barceloneta Wastewater Treatment Plant, a secondary and more efficient treatment facility. 

Certain of PRASA’s previous obligations remain unchanged, including its obligation to undertake a comprehensive operation and maintenance program in the Puerto Nuevo sanitary sewer system and a comprehensive analysis of the system to determine whether further investments must be made to ensure that the system is brought into legal compliance, and to conduct immediate repairs at specific areas of concern. For the Puerto Nuevo sewer system, the public will be provided with information on PRASA’s website concerning where CSOs occur within the system, and there will be extensions of time to complete reconnaissance and cleaning activities for priority areas of concern identified within the sewer system.

The settlement, lodged on June 29, 2023 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico, is subject to a 30-day public comment period and subsequent approval by the federal court. Read the settlement on the Department of Justice website.

DALLAS, TEXAS (July 10th, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that the Houston Health Department will receive grant funding to support community monitoring of hazardous air pollutants in high-risk areas and promote air quality providing information to regulators and residents. Under the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, the grant of $499,982 will go toward community air monitoring projects in the Houston area.

“The Inflation Reduction Act has continued to fund critical projects that improve public health and assist in overcoming environmental challenges,” said Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “Together with this grant funding we are proud to see communities, representatives and environmental groups unite in supporting a healthy environment for all. I would like to thank all the groups and individuals who helped support this project and for keeping our communities safe and healthy.”  

“I’m proud of these nearly $500,000 that will enhance the air quality monitoring in high-risk environmental justice communities in my district,” said Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia. “This will help improve the Houston area’s local air quality and educate residents on the hazards of air pollutants. This is a direct result of President Biden’s Investing in America act.”

“This grant will enhance air quality monitoring in communities that have long experienced disproportionate impacts from air pollution and other environmental injustices throughout the 18th Congressional district, such as Fifth Ward, Galena Park, Pleasantville & Sunnyside,” said Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Many individuals in these communities are unaware of the quality of air that they are breathing in, which can have long term and life-threatening health impacts.”

 “Sunnyside, a historically Black neighborhood in Houston founded over 100 years ago, has endured environmental discrimination throughout its existence. It became the location for a garbage incinerator, multiple landfills and various industrial plants that serviced the city. After rightful protestations and determined efforts, significant improvements have been made in Sunnyside. One notable groundbreaking project that received federal funding, I was able to secure, is helping to transform a closed landfill into a Solar Farm,” said Congressman Al Green. “However, the air quality in Sunnyside remains a concern. In 2021 alone, the Houston Health Department received over 40 air pollution complaints from the area’s ZIP codes. EPA’s 2014 data indicates a known cancer risk in this area and the risk has increased by 218%. I am gratified that this project aims to enhance air quality monitoring in the area, educating the community accordingly, and generating sustainable solutions for air quality concerns. I thank the Environmental Protection Agency for taking these steps to address the environmental discrimination Sunnyside has experienced for far too long.”

This project will allow the Health Department alongside community members, to gather information about the sources and levels of the toxic air pollution in this community,” said Dr. Loren Hopkins, Chief Environmental Science Officer of the Houston Health Department. “We will use that information to inform changes in regulation to improve the health of individuals in these communities.

The City of Houston’s community monitoring will target four hazardous air pollutants that potentially pose risk to communities which are 1,3-butadiene, benzene, formaldehyde, and ethylene oxide. The project has three components, monitoring, education, and action, each to be carried out in partnership with the City of Houston Health Department and community partners. Secondly, a community-focused mobile air monitoring platform approach will be utilized by the community to monitor for air toxic emissions. Lastly, a third monitoring approach will monitor for concentrations of formaldehyde for one year at or in the vicinity of the Milby Park fixed site monitor. Additional areas of focus will include areas such as Meadowbrook/Allendale, Park Place, and Pecan Park and neighborhoods containing the ZIP codes 77012 and 77017. With these goals in mind, each component is crafted to be jointly led by the health department and community partnership as a team.  

This project has shown support from local environmental and grassroots groups such as the Air Alliance Houston, Houston Wilderness, Community Lattice and neighborhood group Botanic Gardens. Several school districts and a city council member have shown support such as the Milby and Chavez High School and Council Member Robert Gallegos. The partnership between these groups and the Houston Health Department will assist with reducing harmful air pollutants in the air and strive to educate the public on the dangers of toxic air emissions.  

The grant is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic funding packages to invest in and strengthen our nation’s communities.

Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homepage.