The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the distribution of $34 million in grants, part of the Inflation Reduction Act, aimed at improving indoor air quality in schools across the United States. The initiative was celebrated at an event held at Horatio B. Hackett School in Philadelphia, attended by EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz and representatives from various organizations that received funding.
"The Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda continues to put kids, communities, and public health first – this time by working to improve indoor air quality in schools," said Adam Ortiz during the event. He commended both the School District of Philadelphia and five grantees who will collaborate with districts nationwide to enhance student health.
Jasmine Davenport, EPA Senior Advisor for Climate Justice, emphasized the significance of these efforts: "EPA’s Indoor Air in Schools program stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring every child breathes clean air in their learning environment."
Oz Hill, Deputy Superintendent of Operations at the School District of Philadelphia, expressed gratitude for the investment: "The School District of Philadelphia is strategically working to upgrade HVAC systems and focus on expanding energy-saving initiatives."
The grants will support efforts by five organizations including the University of Utah and the American Lung Association. These groups will work on projects involving air quality management plans and greenhouse gas reduction strategies targeted at low-income, disadvantaged, and Tribal communities.
These initiatives are part of broader efforts by the Biden-Harris Administration to drive climate action and improve public health through comprehensive indoor air quality plans supported by training and research projects.