The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that three campuses of the University of Massachusetts have been selected to receive nearly $1.5 million in grants aimed at supporting pollution prevention practices. The grants, part of the Investing in America agenda, are funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst will receive $349,363 to assist the beverage manufacturing industry in southern New England states. This initiative will focus on reducing energy, water, and toxic chemical use while also minimizing waste generation. "We are excited to continue our work with EPA's Pollution Prevention Program," said Lauren Mattison from UMass Amherst.
The University of Massachusetts Boston is set to receive $350,000 for aiding craft beverage manufacturers, especially those in communities facing environmental justice issues. The project aims to reduce toxic cleaners and single-use packaging among other sustainability efforts. "We're thrilled to receive this grant," expressed Venky Venkatachalam from UMass Boston.
The University of Massachusetts Lowell will benefit from two separate grants: one worth $349,899 for exploring safer alternatives to trichloroethylene (TCE), and another totaling $409,551 under the traditional P2 Grants Program for eliminating TCE usage in metal working sectors. Jason Marshall from TURI at UMass Lowell stated gratitude for these opportunities to collaborate with industry partners.
"Every community deserves clean air, safe water, and a healthy environment—and pollution prevention grants help achieve that by reducing waste at the source," said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash.
U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren remarked on the importance of these projects as investments in future leaders and solutions to pollution challenges. Meanwhile, U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey highlighted his role in securing funding through legislative efforts and praised Massachusetts institutions' contributions towards a sustainable economy.
In total, 48 selectees nationwide will share nearly $19 million for developing pollution prevention practices across various sectors thanks to President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Pollution prevention involves practices that prevent or reduce pollution at its source rather than managing it post-creation—an approach seen as vital for cost reduction and community protection against toxic exposures while conserving natural resources.
