The University of Louisville is set to receive $305,738 in grants from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to assist businesses in adopting pollution prevention practices. This initiative aims to develop sustainable practices within local communities.
The Kentucky Pollution Prevention Center at the University of Louisville will collaborate with the University of Kentucky's James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits. The partnership will provide technical assistance focusing on sustainable value stream mapping and energy efficiency opportunities, particularly benefiting distillers and automotive businesses. These efforts aim to offer cost savings and educate novice distillers on best practices in pollution prevention.
Acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle expressed satisfaction with the selection of grant recipients, stating, "Pollution prevention is an important component in addressing environmental issues, and it is the most cost-effective method in reducing environmental pollution."
Congressman Morgan McGarvey emphasized the significance of this support: “From distillers to auto makers, every business can do their part to reduce pollution—let’s make sure they have the technical assistance they need to do so.”
The EPA announced that a total of 48 selectees nationwide would receive nearly $19 million in grants aimed at supporting states, Tribal Nations, and U.S. territories in developing pollution prevention strategies. A significant portion of these funds was made available through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law without any cost-sharing requirements.
Pollution prevention involves practices that reduce or eliminate waste at its source before recycling or disposal processes begin. This approach helps businesses cut costs while protecting communities from toxic exposure and conserving natural resources.
Between 2011-2022, EPA's program awarded over 500 grants totaling more than $54 million, resulting in substantial environmental benefits such as energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Selected grantees are expected to document successful practices developed through these grants for broader adoption across industries. The full list of selections and project summaries can be accessed on EPA's Pollution Prevention website.
President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law significantly increased funding for the EPA's P2 Program by investing $100 million into it, which has doubled previous funding levels.
