The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has allocated over $1 million in grants to the University of Nevada, Reno, and Western Nevada College to aid businesses in adopting pollution prevention practices across Nevada. This funding is part of a broader initiative distributing nearly $19 million nationwide to promote technical assistance for pollution reduction efforts.
"By reducing pollution in communities across Nevada these grants will help bring about clear gains in public health," said Martha Guzman, EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator. She emphasized the role of these projects in preventing pollution at its source and advancing environmental justice.
The University of Nevada, Reno received $350,000 under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to enhance their Business Environmental Program. This includes educational webinars for auto repair shops focusing on various cleaner technologies and practices aimed at minimizing worker exposure to harmful chemicals like volatile organic compounds.
Western Nevada College was awarded $700,000 to work with greenUP! on promoting safer alternatives within sectors such as food and beverage, chemical manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and metal manufacturing. Their program highlights potential risks from PFAS exposure which could have detrimental health effects.
"Western Nevada College and greenUP! greatly appreciate the funding from EPA to run pollution prevention projects in Nevada and to support our green business program network," stated J. Kyle Dalpe, President of WNC. He reaffirmed the college's commitment to climate action within the state.
Pollution prevention or P2 is crucial for reducing costs while protecting community health by addressing toxic exposures at their source before recycling or disposal processes begin. Between 2011 and 2022, EPA's Pollution Prevention program issued over 500 grants totaling more than $54 million resulting in significant environmental savings including energy conservation and reduction of hazardous materials.
The funds will be awarded after legal requirements are met by selectees who will document successful P2 practices for replication elsewhere. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law ensures that P2 grants are fully funded upon award without requiring cost sharing from recipients.
EPA’s Pollution Prevention Grant Program supports President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative which aims to deliver substantial benefits from federal investments into disadvantaged communities burdened by pollution challenges.
Further details on selected projects can be found on EPA's Pollution Prevention website which offers insights into their P2 Grant Program activities.
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