The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), along with Central Michigan University, will receive grants totaling $987,645. These funds are aimed at providing technical assistance to businesses in Michigan to develop and adopt pollution prevention practices.
EGLE is set to receive $700,000 to launch a Statewide P2 Food Waste Reduction Technical Assistance program. This initiative will focus on assisting food and beverage manufacturing and processing businesses in reducing organic material and hazardous substances entering waste streams before recycling or disposal. The goal is also to conserve natural resources.
Central Michigan University will receive $287,645 for collaboration with the Michigan Sustainable Business Forum (MiSBF). Together they will work with food and beverage manufacturing businesses on actions recommended by "The Michigan Food Waste Reduction Road Map," recently developed by MiSBF. The project aims to provide pollution prevention technical assistance and training in disadvantaged communities across Michigan.
“Thanks to President Biden and Vice President Harris’ leadership, EPA has provided unprecedented support for innovative approaches that prevent pollution and protect the environment,” said Jennie Romer from the EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. “Empowering businesses through these grant projects is a win-win that protects communities while also cutting costs for businesses.”
Rep. Elissa Slotkin commented on the funding: "Today’s announcement of new federal funding to help cut down on polluting chemicals in our waterways and environment is another step towards protecting Michiganders' health, safety, and way of life."
The EPA has selected 48 entities nationwide to receive nearly $19 million in grants under this initiative. The funding supports states, Tribal Nations, and U.S. territories in helping businesses implement pollution prevention practices locally.
Pollution prevention involves reducing or eliminating pollution at its source rather than managing it post-production. This approach helps reduce costs for American businesses while safeguarding communities from toxic chemical exposure.
Between 2011-2022, EPA's Pollution Prevention program issued over 500 grants totaling more than $54 million. These initiatives have resulted in significant energy savings, greenhouse gas reductions, water conservation, hazardous material reduction, and cost savings for businesses.
Selected grantees are expected to document their findings on best practices identified during their projects so others can replicate them. Each grantee will also develop a case study on novel or lesser-known P2 practices.
Funding for these grants comes partly from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which significantly increased investment in EPA's P2 Program. This law aligns with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative aiming to deliver substantial benefits from federal investments to disadvantaged communities affected by pollution.
Further details about selections can be found on the EPA’s Pollution Prevention website.
