The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that Missouri University of Science and Technology and Missouri State University will receive nearly $700,000 in grants. These funds are aimed at providing technical assistance to businesses for developing and adopting pollution prevention (P2) practices in local communities.
Missouri University of Science and Technology is set to receive $349,712. The university plans to focus on mineral mining operations as a P2 opportunity. Their project will provide technical assistance for replacing conventional flocculants with safer and more biodegradable options such as chitosan from crustacean shells, guar gum, and starch-based polymers. Additionally, the plan includes enhancing filtration efficiency using advanced materials to reduce water use and toxic releases.
Missouri State University will be granted $336,774. In partnership with the Missouri Association of Manufacturers and other organizations, MSU aims to develop an outreach program targeting businesses in the food and beverage, automotive, aerospace, and metal manufacturing sectors. They will offer P2 technical assistance and training while identifying green chemistry alternatives for companies in communities with environmental justice concerns.
"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."
Dr. Guang Xu from Missouri S&T highlighted the project's focus on advanced dewatering techniques to minimize tailings volume: "Employing methods such as dry-stack tailings reduces the footprint of tailings storage facilities (TSFs) and the likelihood of toxic discharges."
In total, EPA announced 48 selectees nationwide who will collectively receive nearly $19 million in grants thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding comes with no cost share/match requirement for nearly half of the awarded funds this year.
The EPA's Pollution Prevention program has issued over 500 grants between 2011 and 2022 totaling more than $54 million. These efforts have led to significant savings in energy, water usage reduction, greenhouse gas elimination, hazardous material reduction, and financial savings for businesses.
Once legal requirements are met, selected grantees are expected to document P2 best practices through these grants so others can replicate successful outcomes.
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