The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that the University of Texas at Arlington will receive $349,435 in grants to assist businesses in developing and adopting pollution prevention practices within local communities. This initiative is part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in America Agenda.
"Since the creation of the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990, EPA has used these P2 grants across the country to substantially reduce emissions in overlooked communities," stated Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. "With this grant funding, communities can tackle air pollution problems head-on and implement long-term green solutions in their infrastructure."
The University of Texas Arlington Extension and Extended Campus will collaborate with automotive businesses in areas with environmental justice concerns. Their work will focus on outreach and technical assistance aimed at reducing hazardous material use and air emissions. Additionally, they plan to conduct training sessions for workers on handling solvents, paint thinners, and product substitutions, alongside piloting an internship program for emerging environmental professionals.
Overall, the EPA has selected 48 recipients nationwide to receive nearly $19 million in grants supporting states, Tribal Nations, and U.S. territories. The funding aims to provide technical assistance for businesses to develop pollution prevention practices locally. A significant portion of this year's funds comes from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which eliminated cost-sharing requirements for many recipients.
Pollution prevention or source reduction involves practices that minimize or eliminate pollution at its origin before recycling or disposal processes begin. These methods are vital for reducing costs while protecting communities from toxic chemical exposure and conserving natural resources.
Between 2011-2022, EPA's Pollution Prevention program awarded over 500 grants totaling more than $54 million. These efforts have resulted in substantial energy savings, greenhouse gas reductions, water conservation, hazardous material reductions, and financial savings for businesses.
The agency plans to award funds once all legal and administrative requirements are met. Grantees will document and share best practices identified through these grants so others can replicate successful outcomes. Each grantee will also develop a case study during the grant period on new or lesser-known P2 practices.
Grants funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will be fully financed upon awarding with amounts up to $350,000 per grant. Traditional P2 grants require a fifty percent cost share/match over a two-year cycle.
This initiative supports President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative aiming to deliver 40% of federal investment benefits to disadvantaged communities affected by underinvestment and pollution burdens.
For further details on selections and project summaries visit EPA’s Pollution Prevention website.
