The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that the University of Nebraska-Lincoln will receive a grant amounting to $298,650. This funding is intended to assist businesses in adopting pollution prevention practices within local communities.
The university plans to provide technical support to various sectors including food and beverage, chemical, automotive, and metal manufacturing. The focus will be on finding alternatives to toxic chemicals, optimizing processes, and conserving water and energy. This program will involve both on-site assessments and follow-up evaluations as necessary.
“Pollution prevention benefits the environment and creates healthier communities by decreasing waste and conserving our resources,” stated EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister. “These funds will support innovative projects that enhance sustainability and promote cleaner neighborhoods throughout the Heartland.”
Professor Dr. Bruce Dvorak from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln expressed enthusiasm about continuing their work with local manufacturers through this funding. “The Partners in Pollution Prevention (P3) program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has been providing source reduction-focused technical assistance to Nebraska manufacturers using engineering students since 1997,” he said. He added that they expect to help businesses reduce energy and water use while identifying cost-saving opportunities such as tax exemptions and rebates.
The EPA's announcement is part of a larger initiative where 48 selectees across the nation are set to receive nearly $19 million in grants. This funding supports states, tribal nations, and U.S. territories thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Pollution prevention aims at reducing pollution at its source before recycling or disposal processes begin. These practices help American businesses cut costs while protecting communities from exposure to harmful chemicals.
Between 2011 and 2022, over 500 grants totaling more than $54 million were issued by EPA's Pollution Prevention program. These grants have resulted in significant savings in energy, water, hazardous materials reduction, and financial costs for businesses.
EPA expects grantees to document P2 best practices identified during their projects so others can replicate these outcomes. Selected grantees will also create case studies on new or underutilized P2 practices during the grant period.
Funds provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are fully funded upon award with individual grants reaching up to $350,000 each. Traditional P2 grants require a 50% cost share/match over a two-year cycle.
President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law significantly increased investment in EPA’s P2 program with a historic $100 million allocation.
