The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that the Georgia Institute of Technology will receive nearly $350,000 in grants to assist businesses in adopting pollution prevention practices. The funding is part of a broader initiative under the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in America Agenda.
The Georgia Institute of Technology will engage with 230 manufacturing facilities that release toxic chemicals to implement pollution prevention strategies. These efforts will include substituting hazardous materials with safer alternatives, monitoring environmental impact, utilizing closed-loop systems to manage toxic solvents, and educating employees on efficient energy and water use.
Acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle emphasized the significance of pollution prevention as "an important component in addressing environmental issues" and highlighted its cost-effectiveness. Congresswoman Nakema Williams expressed enthusiasm for Georgia Tech's role in reducing toxic chemicals and fostering innovation, stating that this investment exemplifies how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law benefits Georgia by promoting sustainable practices.
Nationwide, 48 selectees will receive nearly $19 million in grants to support states, Tribal Nations, and U.S. territories in providing technical assistance for pollution prevention practices. Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, almost half of this year's funds are available without a cost share requirement.
Pollution prevention focuses on reducing or eliminating pollution at its source before recycling or disposal. This approach supports businesses by lowering costs while protecting communities from toxic exposure and conserving resources.
From 2011-2022, EPA’s Pollution Prevention program issued over 500 grants totaling more than $54 million. These initiatives have led to significant energy savings, greenhouse gas reductions, water conservation, hazardous material reduction, and financial savings for businesses.
Selected grantees are expected to document and share best practices developed through these grants. Each grantee will also produce a case study on innovative or lesser-known pollution prevention practices during the grant period.
The grants funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will be fully awarded upon meeting legal requirements. Traditional P2 grants require a fifty percent cost match over a two-year cycle. The EPA's Pollution Prevention Grant Program aligns with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative aimed at benefiting disadvantaged communities affected by underinvestment and pollution.
Further information about selections and project summaries can be found on EPA’s Pollution Prevention website.
