The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded over $3 million to 30 small businesses for the development of new technologies to help solve environmental and public health problems.
Among the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program recipients are companies developing technology to improve stormwater management, reduce microplastic pollution and recover water from cooling tower plumes, an EPA press release said.
"These companies are employing innovative approaches like an automated waste sorting system at the point of disposal; a system that employs technology to capture and destroy airborne bacteria and viruses; and a monitoring system that can map methane concentrations and emissions over large areas," the release said.
The small businesses will initially receive $100,000 each to develop a proof of concept, the release said. “Companies that complete Phase I can then apply to receive Phase II funding of up to $400,000 to further develop and commercialize their technology."
“As emerging technologies continue to rapidly change the world, our nation’s small businesses are at the forefront of harnessing these technologies to address today’s environmental challenges,” Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator Wayne Cascio of EPA’s Office of Research and Development said in the release. “We are excited to watch these small companies bring innovative ideas to the marketplace and help revolutionize improving our environment, public health and the economy.”
SBIR is a program that encourages high-tech innovation through competitive grants for small businesses to develop technological solutions for U.S environmental and health issues, the release said.
