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ATLANTA (July 9, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of National Wildlife Federation to receive $100,000 in funding to support Environmental Education across in metro Atlanta. This project will engage 8 Title 1 schools, 240 underserved minority students, 20 teachers, and 30 community members in Georgia’s Greater Metro Atlanta region in climate education, climate resilience, and action.

“Congratulations to our environmental education grant winners in the Southeast area,” said Acting Region 4 Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. “Investing in environmental education increases public awareness and knowledge about environmental issues, as well as provide participants in its programs the skills necessary to make informed decisions and take responsible actions.”

This grant funding aims to increase public awareness of environmental issues and provide skills so participants can make informed decisions and take responsible actions toward the environment. The funding for the National Wildlife Federation is one of 38 grants nationwide announced by EPA.

“The National Wildlife Federation is deeply honored and grateful to the EPA for selecting Eco-Schools U.S. Atlanta as a grant winner, said Sarah Holt, Foundation Relation Officer National Wildlife Federation. “This recognition underscores our shared commitment to preserving our environment and wildlife via education. With this support, we will continue our vital work towards conservation and sustainability by creating the next generation of environmental stewards that will ensure a brighter future for generations to come.”

National Wildlife Federation: Eco-Schools U.S. Atlanta

The implementation of NWF’s Eco-Schools US (ESUS) “Action Cards” aligned to Georgia’s Science Standards of Excellence will address the lack of standardized and robust climate change education guidelines and knowledge of local climate change vulnerabilities. This project focuses on educational and environmental priorities: providing climate change, improving air quality and community projects.

EPA anticipates providing funding for this project once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.

Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in EE grant funding each year, for a total of over $95.1 million supporting more than 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate or disseminate environmental education practices, methods or techniques. For more information visit EPA’s Environmental Education webpage.   

To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit the Environmental Education Grants webpage. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded. 

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JACKSON, Miss. (July 9, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of Mississippi State University Extension to receive $100,000 in funding to support Environmental Education in Jackson and across Mississippi. This selectee’s off-campus educational arm of Mississippi State University, the Extension provides current research and educational information to individuals in all 82 counties. This grant funding aims to increase public awareness of environmental issues and provide skills so participants can make informed decisions and take responsible actions toward the environment.

“Congratulations to our environmental education grant winners in the Southeast area,” said Acting Region 4 Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle.  "Investing in environmental education increases public awareness and knowledge about environmental issues, in addition to providing participants in its programs the skills necessary to make informed decisions and take responsible actions.”

Mississippi State University Extension: Sparking stewardship through community-based watershed education and monitoring in Mississippi’s urban communities

The project will expand the Mississippi Water Stewards program to provide water resource education and outreach activities that will build stewardship in communities that need it most. This work aims to utilize a mini-grant program for community-based organizations to lead 1-year water monitoring and outreach programs to strategically expand MSWS in communities in Mississippi, with special emphasis on the Jackson metro area. This project focuses on educational and environmental priorities: community projects, environmental education capacity building, environmental justice, and ensuring clean and safe water.

EPA anticipates providing funding for this project once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.

Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in EE grant funding each year, for a total of over $95.1 million supporting more than 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate or disseminate environmental education practices, methods or techniques. For more information visit EPA’s Environmental Education webpage.   

To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit the Environmental Education Grants webpage. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.  

WASHINGTON – Today, July 9, as part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced it would award $5 million in grants to establish four new Centers of Excellence for Stormwater Control Infrastructure Technologies and a national clearinghouse for new and emerging stormwater control technologies. The Centers of Excellence will play an important role in improving stormwater infrastructure across the country by conducting research and providing technical assistance to State, Tribal and local governments. 

“Our waterways are treasured resources and economic engines for communities, and at EPA we strive to make sure waterways are both fishable and swimmable,” said EPA Acting Assistant Administrator for Water Bruno Pigott. “Stormwater runoff carries pollution from streets and land into our waterways and poses a significant challenge for water quality. Thanks to this investment from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we are working with our partners to advance critical stormwater technology and solutions that will protect communities across the country.”

The grants are made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Four of the awards are to establish new Centers of Excellence for Stormwater, which will enhance efforts to support the nation’s water infrastructure and protect water quality. EPA anticipates that once all the legal and administrative requirements are satisfied, it will award funding to establish the new Stormwater Centers of Excellence to the following recipients:

• The University of New Hampshire,
• The University of Oklahoma,
• The Board of Regents Nevada System of Higher Education, and
• The Center for Watershed Protection, Inc.

EPA has also selected the Center for Watershed Protection, Inc., to establish a national electronic clearinghouse that contains information about new and emerging stormwater control infrastructure technologies and funding approaches. The national electronic clearinghouse will be populated with research, best practices, and outreach from each Center of Excellence, and promoted with other organizations to expand the availability of water technical assistance, including States, Tribes, local government and disadvantaged communities.

Stormwater is a significant source of water pollution and a threat to the health of waterways across the country. It is a complicated problem for communities to manage, however, because of the engineering and financial challenges associated with stormwater. These grant recipients will play an important role in conducting research on new and emerging stormwater control infrastructure technologies and alternative funding approaches. As Centers for Excellence, they will also provide technical assistance and support stormwater infrastructure improvements that safeguard the environment, improve stormwater management and climate resilience, and advance environmental justice.

Learn more about the Stormwater Centers of Excellence Request for Applications.

PHILADELPHIA – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a Record of Decision (ROD) that addresses a source of contaminated soil at the former Shaffer Equipment Company (SEC) property in Minden, West Virginia. Today’s ROD, which applies to the polychlorinated biphenyls (“PCBs”) located at the SEC property at the Shaffer Equipment/Arbuckle Creek Area Superfund Site (Site), lays out in detail why EPA has concluded that the proposed plan and selected cleanup method will meet the needs of the project.

“EPA’s Record of Decision is a significant step forward in protecting the community and waterway from the threat of contaminants like PCBs, and there is still more work to be done,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Administrator Adam Ortiz. “EPA will continue to investigate and study the remaining portions of the site and will work with our partners at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to prepare for the cleanup of the property.”

The site is comprised of the SEC property, Arbuckle Creek sediments, and a handful of other areas where related contamination may be located. Site soils and sediment were historically contaminated with PCBs, which were used by the Shaffer Equipment Company from 1970 to 1984 to manufacture electrical substations for the local coal mining industry.

The components of the SEC property cleanup plan include the excavation, removal, and disposal of the contaminated soil and cap, and backfilling with clean soil as needed. The cleanup method will be designed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Once the design is complete, the remedial action, or property cleanup, can begin.

The EPA is also continuing to direct a very detailed investigation of the contamination in Arbuckle Creek and the New River watershed and properties adjacent the creek (see map below).

In 2017, the EPA, hearing concerns from the community about residual contamination, resampled the site and held public meetings in 2017 and 2018 to share and review the results. Testing found low PCB levels that did not indicate an immediate threat to human health. Most of the contamination was found in the creek floodplains and had moved down and deposited into land parcels along the creek. The EPA listed the Site on the Superfund program’s National Priorities List in 2019.

EPA released the proposed SEC property cleanup plan for public comment in March 2023. During the public comment period, EPA held a public meeting to inform the community of the plan and to receive public comments. To read the EPA’s ROD and to view EPA’s responses to public comments, please visit www.epa.gov/superfund/shaffer.

EPA in West Virginia

The EPA has a new ArcGIS Story Map that explores the infrastructure, community, and revitalization work in West Virginia. This easy-to-use tool shows where some of the $500 million the EPA has invested in West Virginia is being used, what communities and environmental resources are benefiting from infrastructure projects, and how the public and stakeholders can learn more about current EPA activities in the state. Learn more about how the EPA works in West Virginia by visiting our new public Story Map here!

DENVER – The Department of Justice, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the State of Colorado today announced a settlement with Enterprise Gas Processing, LLC, and Enterprise Products Operating, LLC (jointly, “Enterprise”). The agreement, which includes a $1 million civil penalty, will protect community health and the environment by strengthening leak detection and repair practices at the Meeker Gas Plant in Rio Blanco County, Colorado.

A complaint filed concurrently with the settlement alleges that Enterprise violated leak detection and repair requirements in accordance with the Clean Air Act and state clean air laws. The violations resulted in excess emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants to the atmosphere.

“All gas refining and processing facilities must comply with the Clean Air Act,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “This settlement includes important provisions to improve leak detection, repair practices and staff training, which applied here will help protect public health in western Colorado.”

As part of the settlement, Enterprise will take corrective actions and pay the $1 million civil penalty. Half of the penalty will go to the federal government and half will go to the State of Colorado, where a portion will fund projects to benefit disproportionately impacted communities through the state's environmental justice grant program.

“Together, EPA and CDPHE are committed to delivering enforcement, inspections and compliance assistance that provide tangible benefits for Colorado’s communities,” said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. “This action will secure facility compliance and reduce emissions of air pollutants in Meeker and the surrounding area.”

The EPA and CDPHE signed a memorandum of understanding in 2022 to enhance coordination while working to protect clean air for all.

“We are grateful for the partnership between the EPA, Department of Justice and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment in working together to protect Colorado’s air quality," said Jill Hunsaker Ryan, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment. "This enforcement package requires not only a fine to be paid, but for the facility to conduct more frequent air measurements and respond more quickly to leaks, which will continue to reduce air pollution.”

Under the settlement, Enterprise will strengthen its leak detection and repair practices at the Meeker Gas Plant. These commitments include:   

• installing equipment that leaks less pollution to the atmosphere, 
• reviewing compliance with leak detection and repair requirements and 
• repairing leaking equipment faster.

Enterprise will also improve staff training and use optical gas imaging technology to improve the visual detection of leaks to address them more quickly.

“The protection of Colorado’s air quality made possible through this settlement with Enterprise is a testament to the power of collaboration between dedicated state and federal public officials,” said Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser. “We are proud to support the state’s Air Pollution Control Division as it continues to lead the way to reduce air pollution from oil and gas operations and pursue better air for all Coloradans.”

Equipment leaks at the Meeker Gas Plant emit VOCs, which lead to the formation of ground-level ozone. Ozone contributes to serious public health concerns, including respiratory illness, aggravation of existing heart disease and temporary breathing difficulty for people with asthma. Young children and older people are especially sensitive to these impacts. Leaks from equipment at the Meeker Gas Plant also emit methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.

The EPA investigated the case. Attorneys of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Enforcement Section are handling the case.

The Justice Department filed the consent decree with the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado. The consent decree is subject to a 30-day public comment period and is available on the Justice Department’s website. 

BOSTON (July 9, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has reached a settlement with Ocean State Jobbers, Inc., doing business as Ocean State Job Lot, a corporation based out of North Kingstown, Rhode Island, for alleged violations of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, also known as FIFRA. Under the settlement, the corporation has agreed to pay a penalty of $53,500 to resolve alleged violations of FIFRA involving the import, distribution and sale of misbranded bug zapper pesticide devices that were imported through Ports of Entry in Boston and Worcester, Massachusetts.

"The consumer deserves accuracy and demands accountability when it comes to products they purchase." said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "This settlement serves as a reminder that thoroughness is required, and not merely a suggestion, and that anyone importing pesticide devices into the U.S. needs to follow the proper ground rules to do so legally."

EPA alleged that Ocean State Job Lot imported, distributed or sold the misbranded bug zapper devices between February 2020 and April 2023. Bug zappers are regulated as "devices" under FIFRA because they are instruments that use physical mechanisms (in this case, electricity) to trap, destroy, repel, or mitigate a pest. The bug zappers were misbranded due to the lack of an EPA Establishment Number on the product labels. The EPA Establishment Number is a unique number assigned to the facility where the pesticide devices were produced. Ocean State Job Lot also failed to file the required Notices of Arrival for imports of the bug zappers during this period.

About the company

Ocean State Job Lot is a regional corporation headquartered in Rhode Island that operates a chain of discount retail stores, across New England, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The company sells a variety of products including household goods, apparel, pet supplies, seasonal items, and more. The corporation employs approximately 5,600 associates, with annual sales exceeding $800 million.

More information

EPA Importing and Exporting Pesticides and Devices: https://www.epa.gov/compliance/importing-and-exporting-pesticides-and-devices

Pesticide Devices: A Guide for Consumers: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/pesticide-devices-guide-consumers

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that Clearwater Paper Corporation of Lewiston, Idaho, will pay a combined $367,088 in penalties for failing to properly report releases of hazardous chlorine emissions that occurred in 2019, 2020 and 2021.

Multiple unexpected releases of chlorine gas occurred at Clearwater’s Lewiston facility that resulted in hundreds of pounds of this toxic chemical being emitted into the air. Chlorine is used at the facility to process pulp for paper production.

Some of these releases were large enough to cause evacuations at the facility and resulted in employees seeking medical attention after exposure.

“Communities and first responders near facilities using deadly chemicals have a need and a legal right to know when releases occur,” said EPA Region 10 Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Director Ed Kowalski. “These are not simple paperwork issues; the safety of workers, first responders, and residents rests on a company’s compliance with these requirements.”

The company was issued a $84,769 penalty under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act and an additional $237,319 penalty under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act for its failure to immediately notify officials and provide timely follow-up reports regarding these releases.

The company was also issued an additional $45,000 penalty under EPCRA, for failure to properly report numerous releases in its annual Toxics Release Inventory reporting.

Additional details are available in the following documents:

• Consent Agreement and Final Order (EPCRA-10-2024-0110)
• Consent Agreement and Final Order (EPCRA-10-2024-0033)

PHILADELPHIA  --   The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Mid-Atlantic Region (EPA) has reached a settlement with Cunningham Energy, LLC (Cunningham) and its parent, Houston Natural Resources Corp (HNRC), resolving alleged violations of the Clean Air Act (CAA) and the West Virginia State Implementation Plan associated with two Cunningham oil and gas well pads located at Shelton Road in Bomont, West Virginia. The consent agreement and final order requires Cunningham and HNRC to pay a $742,737 penalty for these violations plus accrued interest, for a total of $764,274.

According to the agreement (Docket No. CAA-03-2024-0119) filed on June 28, 2024, Cunningham failed to comply with permitting requirements and to properly control, monitor, and report emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC) at its Bomont facilities. Releases of these compounds contribute to smog and ground level ozone. Ozone in the air can harm human health, especially on hot sunny days when ozone can reach unhealthy levels. Elevated exposures to ozone can affect sensitive vegetation and ecosystems, including forests, parks, wildlife refuges and wilderness areas.

In May 2023, EPA separately issued an Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) addressing the same violations underpinning this penalty settlement. This action and the previous AOC support EPA’s National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative for Mitigating Climate Change. VOC emissions indirectly contribute to climate change by increasing the concentration of ozone, which is a strong greenhouse gas.

For more information about EPA’s enforcement program, visit EPA’s enforcement website at epa.gov/enforcement. 

EPA in West Virginia

The EPA has a new ArcGIS Story Map that explores the infrastructure, community, and revitalization work in West Virginia. This easy-to-use tool shows where some of the $500 million the EPA has invested in West Virginia is being used, what communities and environmental resources are benefiting from infrastructure projects, and how the public and stakeholders can learn more about current EPA activities in the state. Learn more about how the EPA works in West Virginia by visiting our new public Story Map here!

CHICAGO (July 9, 2024) — Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Neighborhood House of Milwaukee will receive a grant for $100,000, for environmental education projects.  

“Advancing environmental education advances EPA’s mission because it better equips our communities with the information they need to protect public health today and in the future,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “This year’s environmental education grant recipients will work in underserved communities across the country to foster a deeper understanding of environmental challenges and inspire action towards sustainable solutions.”   

“Neighborhood House of Milwaukee is excited to be a recipient of the EPA's Environmental Education grant. Our focus will be Nature Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion program where students will learn about the natural world as a defender/protector of the natural world. Conservation, exploration and education are our priorities as we inspire discover or the flora and fauna of Wisconsin and our impact locally and globally,” said Niki Espy, Associate Program Director.   

The EPA grants will provide 400 underserved youth in grades 1-12 with environmental education focused on climate change. 

Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in environmental education grant funding each year, for a total of over $95.1 million supporting more than 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate or disseminate environmental education practices, methods or techniques.  For more information visit EPA’s Environmental Education web page.    

To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit the Environmental Education Grants web page. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.   

PHILADELPHIA – Today, July 9, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency signed a new collective bargaining agreement with its largest union, the American Federation of Government Employees, Council 238. The new agreement was unanimously ratified by the union in May and implemented on June 14, 2024. It incorporates historic firsts for EPA and AFGE including articles dedicated to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, and Scientific Integrity.

“We are thrilled to reach an agreement with AFGE Council 238. AFGE represents over 8,400 EPA employees who work every day to improve public health and protect our environment,” said EPA Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe. “The new agreement demonstrates this Administration’s strong support of unions and our commitment to providing a work environment that attracts and retains the best qualified employees so that we can protect all of the communities that we serve.”

“We are proud of the groundbreaking firsts and other protections gained in this agreement. We need a strong workforce that has the resources and protections required to combat climate change, address natural disasters, and support affected communities,” said Marie Owens Powell, President, AFGE Council 238. “We wanted a contract that fosters a healthy work-life balance, enhances workforce retention and talent recruitment, and supports the vital work of EPA’s workforce. And we got it.”

In addition to the new DEIA and Scientific Integrity Articles, other highlights of the agreement include extensions of current procedures and requirements for remote work, telework and work schedules. The new contract expires in 2028.

More information on the agreement.

CHICAGO (July 9, 2024) — Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Hubbard County Soil & Water Conservation and Minnesota State Mankato will receive grants for $98,000 and $100,000, respectively, for environmental education projects.  

“Advancing environmental education advances EPA’s mission because it better equips our communities with the information they need to protect public health today and in the future,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “This year’s environmental education grant recipients will work in underserved communities across the country to foster a deeper understanding of environmental challenges and inspire action towards sustainable solutions.”    

“Conservation partners, landowners, and schools are forming partnerships in Northern Minnesota to promote long-term rural community vibrancy that is inclusive of educational resources, local economy, social vitality and measurable conservation impacts through hands-on learning, student designed projects and community mini-grants funded through the activity of cone and seed collecting for our state nursery -- also reviving local knowledge and traditions around seed collecting to produce the next generation of seedlings for our forests,” said Crystal Mathisrud, District Manager of Hubbard County Soil and Water Conservation District.   

“A collaborative partnership with Minnesota State University, Mankato, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and Mankato Area Public Schools will provide outdoor experiences and educate area youth about watershed and ecosystem health to inspire the next generation of conservation stewards,” said Kimberly Musser, Water Resources Center Associate Director, Minnesota State Mankato.  

The EPA grants will provide day-long high school field trips, monthly stewardship experiences, and opportunities for outdoor adventure and recreational skill-building. As well as support teachers in using hands-on projects to engage students in environmental issues. 

Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in environmental education grant funding each year, for a total of over $95.1 million supporting more than 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate or disseminate environmental education practices, methods or techniques.  For more information visit EPA’s Environmental Education web page.    

To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit the Environmental Education Grants web page. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.   

CHICAGO (July 9, 2024) — Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Openlands in Chicago, Illinois will receive a grant for $75,000 for environmental education projects.  

“Advancing environmental education advances EPA’s mission because it better equips our communities with the information they need to protect public health today and in the future,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “This year’s environmental education grant recipients will work in underserved communities across the country to foster a deeper understanding of environmental challenges and inspire action towards sustainable solutions.”   

“This grant will allow us to increase the number of learning opportunities we provide the teachers, as well as provide them with 1:1 coaching to implement what they learn. We are excited about the opportunities this grant provides to deepen our commitment to environmental education,” said Jessica Fong, Openlands’ Director of Education. 

The EPA will support student-led environmental stewardship projects that aims to increase climate resiliency by planting trees to expand the urban canopy and educate the community surrounding each school.

Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in environmental education grant funding each year, for a total of over $95.1 million supporting more than 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate or disseminate environmental education practices, methods or techniques.  For more information visit EPA’s Environmental Education web page.    

To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit the Environmental Education Grants web page. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.   

NEW YORK - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of three organizations in New York and New Jersey to receive a total of $300,000 in grant funding for Environmental Education projects.

“Advancing environmental education advances EPA’s mission because it better equips our communities with the information they need to protect public health today and in the future,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “This year’s environmental education grant recipients will work in underserved communities across the country to foster a deeper understanding of environmental challenges and inspire action towards sustainable solutions.”  

“Ensuring access to environmental education programs is vital for nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards,” said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “EPA is pleased to provide funding directed to projects in Camden, NJ and New York City that will ignite young people’s passion for our environment and foster their commitment to its protection.”

The following organizations have been selected to receive this year’s EE Grants in New York and New Jersey:

Trail Blazers working in Brooklyn, NY will receive $100,000 for their project "IMPACT."

Informed by the rise of climate anxiety in young people, this project will engage children and teens in Brooklyn, NY, through climate literacy programming. The program aims to enhance climate literacy, environmental affinity, and knowledge/stewardship skills. The program employs research-based methodologies, including a place-based and outdoor-oriented model, hands-on activities, and a capstone Community Service Project.

New York Sun Works working in Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, NY will receive $100,000 for their project "Educating the Next Generation of Environmental Innovators: Bringing Environmental & Climate Education to NYC Public Schools."

This project will deliver its climate and environmental education program to eight schools in New York City — four in Brooklyn, two in Queens, and two in Manhattan. The program aims to build students’ proficiency in inquiry-based climate and environmental science, enhance understanding of urban agriculture’s role in sustainable communities, and expand teacher knowledge.

Rowan University working in Camden, NJ will receive $100,000 for their project "Greening Camden: Educating, Empowering, and Enriching Communities for Climate Action and Cleaner Air"

Using urban greening initiatives (e.g., tree planting, nature-based solutions, and urban gardening) to help address the impacts of climate change and air pollution in Camden, New Jersey, an environmental justice and overburdened community. Activities span all seven stages of the environmental education continuum, including awareness, knowledge, critical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, action, and stewardship. Notable activities involve creating learning modules, an online certificate program, and collecting micro-level air quality data from various locations.

EPA anticipates providing funding for these projects once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.

The funding will range from $50,000 to $100,000, to organizations that provide environmental education activities and programs. This year’s grantees will conduct project activities in 28 states and the Republic of Palau, America Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam.

Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in EE grant funding each year, for a total of over $95.1 million supporting more than 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate or disseminate environmental education practices, methods or techniques.

For more information visit: https://www.epa.gov/education.   

To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit: https://www.epa.gov/education/environmental-education-ee-grants. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.  

Follow EPA Region 2 on X and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.

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DENVER -  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) issued a Notice of Violation (NOV) to Suncor Energy (U.S.A) Inc. last week, alleging the Commerce City refinery failed to comply with air emissions laws. 

The agencies allege Suncor violated or is violating the Clean Air Act and the Colorado Air Pollution Prevention and Control Act through improper emissions of hazardous air pollutants like benzene. The joint NOV is a result of recent air inspections and other investigations by both agencies into Suncor’s operations. This notice offers Suncor an opportunity to discuss the alleged violations. The NOV was released to the public today with redactions to protect company-claimed confidential business information. 

“EPA remains unyielding in its efforts to ensure the Suncor refinery complies with laws and regulations that protect human health and the environment,” said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. “Working with the state, we will continue to investigate these alleged violations and pursue all opportunities to improve conditions for the residents of North Denver, Commerce City and nearby communities.” 

The NOV follows an October 2023 Clean Air Act inspection at Suncor that was led by EPA and accompanied by CDPHE and incorporates CDPHE’s June 2023 Compliance Advisory against Suncor. The agencies allege violations of:  

• The Clean Air Act’s standards for benzene waste and other hazardous air pollutants; 

• Clean Air Act performance standards and Title V permitting rules;  

• the Colorado Air Pollution Prevention and Control Act and Colorado Air Quality Control Commission regulations;  

• and Suncor’s Title V operating permits issued by CDPHE under the Clean Air Act. 

“We’re grateful for EPA’s partnership in this enforcement action, and we’re confident it will build upon our recent actions and improve the refinery’s operations,” said CDPHE Executive Director Jill Hunsaker-Ryan. “Through a comprehensive approach, we continue exploring all options to ensure Suncor complies with air quality requirements. This new joint enforcement action underscores our shared commitment with EPA to provide the communities near Suncor with the enhanced protections they deserve.” 

The NOV is the first step in a joint federal-state enforcement process. It notifies Suncor that both agencies are investigating the alleged violations. The EPA and CDPHE will consider all appropriate information to determine the final enforcement response. 

This joint enforcement action aligns with the 2022 Memorandum of Understanding between EPA Region 8 and CDPHE. Visit CDPHE’s air quality and the Suncor refinery web page for more information. 

DALLAS, TEXAS (July 8, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reminds communities affected by Hurricane Beryl to be aware of potential safety concerns in homes and other buildings. Most importantly, always operate portable generators according to the instructions and always run them outside, far away from buildings. Running a portable generator inside or too close to your home can lead to injury or death from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Indoor air quality can be impacted by many conditions that commonly occur following a hurricane. Please be aware of these hazards if your home, school, or business sustains damage from Hurricane Beryl. As always, please heed instructions from local authorities on when it is safe to return to an evacuated area, and do not enter a damaged building unless it is safe to do so.

Use portable generators safely

Ensure portable generators are set up outside, away from open doors and windows. Never use a portable generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, sheds or similar areas. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide (CO) can quickly build up in these areas and can linger for hours, even after the generator has shut off. Because it is impossible to see, taste or smell the toxic fumes, CO can kill you before you are aware it is in your home. The effects of CO exposure can vary greatly from person to person depending on age, overall health and the concentration and length of exposure.

Avoid contact with building debris

Debris from damaged homes and buildings can contain hazardous substances, especially in older buildings. Elevated concentrations of airborne asbestos can occur if asbestos-containing materials present in the home are disturbed. Airborne asbestos can cause lung cancer and mesothelioma, a cancer of the chest and abdominal linings. Lead is a highly toxic metal that produces a range of adverse health effects, particularly in young children. Disturbance or removal of materials containing lead-based paint can result in an elevated concentration of lead dust in the air. When entering a storm-damaged building, at a minimum, wear an N-95 respirator mask, goggles and protective gloves.

Mold can form after floods

Flood water can make the air in your home unhealthy, because when things remain wet for more than two days, they usually get moldy. Inhaling mold can cause adverse health effects, including allergic reactions. Mold also can damage materials in your home. When entering a flood-damaged building, at a minimum, wear an N-95 respirator mask, goggles and protective gloves.

Please visit EPA’s website for more information on indoor air quality safety during emergencies: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/emergencies-and-iaq

For more information on disaster preparedness, including cleanup tips, visit https://www.epa.gov/natural-disasters

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BOSTON (July 8, 2024) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that four organizations in New England have been selected to receive a total of $380,000 to empower youth to tackle environmental challenges, foster community resilience, and advance environmental justice in underserved communities. The four New England selectees are among 38 organizations across the country to receive over $3.6 million in funding for projects under EPA's Environmental Education Grants Program.

"Environmental education isn't just about learning facts and figures; it's about equipping young people with the skills and knowledge to find solutions to real-world problems and make a real difference in their daily lives and communities," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash "From students in New Haven tackling environmental justice issues and high schoolers in Massachusetts leading climate resilience projects, to Ipswich River Watershed youth participating in a Floating Classroom and students in the Connecticut River Valley finding nature-based solutions through design and engineering—this year's selectees from New England are bringing the environment to life for our kids, and showing them that they have the power to protect and improve the world around them."

This year's environmental education projects in New England include:

• Helping New England's youth grow into a new, inclusive generation of environmental justice problem-solvers through interdisciplinary projects, courses, internships, and leadership portfolios at Common Ground High School.
• Empowering high school students from low-income and environmental justice populations in Massachusetts to resolve climate-related issues through youth-led, non-partisan civic action projects in Worcester, Springfield, and Attleboro.
• Providing underprivileged youth in Essex and Middlesex Counties, MA with experiential learning, kayaking, and canoeing on the Ipswich River, along with developing a watershed study curriculum and offering high school internships in environmental careers.
• Enabling youth in rural underserved communities in the Connecticut River Valley of Western Massachusetts to develop problem-solving skills related to water quality, air quality, and climate change through design and engineering challenges.

The grant funding ranges from $50,000 to $100,000, to organizations that provide environmental education activities and programs. This year's New England selectees will conduct project activities in Connecticut and Massachusetts.

The following four New England organizations have been selected to receive this year's Environmental Education Grants, totaling $380,000:

• New Haven Ecology Project
• Massachusetts Audubon Society
• Ipswich River Watershed Association
• Hitchcock Center for the Environment

New Haven Ecology Project - $100,000
Growing Environmental Justice Problem-Solvers in New England Public Schools

Common Ground High School, an environmental justice-themed charter high school, part of the nonprofit New Haven Ecology Project, will help New England's youth grow into a new, inclusive generation of environmental justice problem-solvers. Through a series of linked experiences, starting with interdisciplinary healthy-communities projects in grades 9 and 10, continuing with courses and internships that deepen students' capacity as environmental justice leaders, and culminating in senior leadership portfolios and capstone projects, 225 Common Ground High School students will participate in environmental justice leadership training and learning while engaging in meaningful environmental stewardship. Community-based nonprofit organizations will play a key role in supporting environmental justice learning and leadership experiences. While building and strengthening a model for teaching environmental justice at Common Ground High School, New Haven Ecology Project will also bring together environmental justice organizations and other public high schools across New England, creating and sharing high-quality teaching resources, model curricula, and educator professional development opportunities, all advancing environmental justice teaching in our region's public high schools.

Massachusetts Audubon Society - $100,000
Climate Democracy Project: Culturally Responsive In-School Climate Change Education Toward Local Civic Action and Resilience

The goal of the Climate Democracy Project (CDP) is for high school students from low-income and environmental justice populations in Massachusetts to become empowered to resolve climate related issues that impact their local environments. The Climate Democracy Project will take place in three Title 1 public schools in Worcester, Springfield, and Attleboro, Massachusetts – all three cities designated as Gateway Cities, meaning that each faces persistent economic and social challenges. CDP brings together classroom teachers and non-formal educators to involve students in grades 8-12 in youth-led, non-partisan civic action projects focused on community-based climate resilience. Massachusetts Audubon Society (Mass Audubon) seeks to pilot this programming in three middle or high schools and to collect data and resources to create a toolkit and training program for educators across Massachusetts. The CDP will provide place-based, project-based learning around climate resilience and civic engagement, to build a statewide foundation for a more environmentally literate citizenry in Massachusetts, aware of the issues behind climate change, and experienced in the civic engagement skills necessary to create just and healthy solutions for their communities. This one-year project will serve three teachers, 120 students, six non-formal educators, and will advance planning toward production of a "ready to implement" program/toolkit for high school teachers to increase climate literacy in schools. The three partner schools include: Doherty Memorial High School in Worcester; Springfield Renaissance School; and Attleboro High School.

Ipswich River Watershed Association - $100,000
Breaking down barriers to place-based education and environmental careers in the Ipswich River watershed

This project will take place in communities that are part of the Ipswich River watershed or drink Ipswich River water, and in other nearby communities in Essex and Middlesex Counties, including Peabody, Salem, Lynn, Lawrence, and Gloucester, MA. These communities are identified as having environmental justice concerns by the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool. The project has three audiences and accompanying programs: 1) underprivileged youth participating in summer enrichment programming; 2) 7th grade classrooms; and 3) underprivileged high schoolers seeking environmental career paths. This project will support the ongoing Floating Classroom program at Ipswich River Watershed Association, which brings youth to the river for experiential programming and environmental education. This project will provide 600 youth and 60 adult chaperones with experiential learning, kayaking and canoeing, and watershed education on the Ipswich River during summer 2025. This project will also support the development of a place-based watershed study curriculum reaching 200 Ipswich River middle schoolers and at least 20 7th-grade teachers and paraprofessionals in the 2024-2025 school year. There are eight Title 1 middle schools in Salem, Lynn, North Reading, and Andover, which will be invited to participate in the 7th grade program along with other interested middle schools. This project will also support two high school youths' 6-week internship in summer 2025 exploring environmental careers in monitoring, restoration, and environmental education. The project will ensure that our internships are available to a diverse pool of applicants, allowing young people who may experience barriers to participating in internships have an opportunity to explore an environmental career.

Hitchcock Center for the Environment - $80,000
Schools Exploring Engineering, Design and Sustainability (SEEDS)

The Hitchcock Center will enable youth to develop problem solving skills related to water quality, air quality, and climate change. Students and their teachers will explore the intersections of engineering, technology and design and their critical role in meeting many of the environmental challenges that confront society today. This project will use design and engineering challenges to help students understand the idea of using nature-based solutions to address environmental challenges, identify new career pathways, get excited and inspired about science and nature and stay hopeful about climate change solutions. Students will be able to apply the tools and concepts of systems thinking in their present lives, and to inform the choices that will affect our future. Over two years The Hitchcock Center will work with Title I schools in 4 districts representing rural underserved communities in the Connecticut River Valley of Western Massachusetts, engaging approximately 16 classrooms and 400 students in 5th grade. Each class will participate in four design challenges (water filtration, stormwater management, erosion control, and air quality), including a field trip to the Hitchcock Center to see nature-based solutions in action. Subawards to participating schools will support student transportation, classroom materials, and student action projects. This project will develop, test, and refine the program model with these schools, ensuring sustainable future learning.

More information:

EPA anticipates providing funding for these projects once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.

Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in EE grant funding each year, for a total of over $95.1 million supporting more than 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate or disseminate environmental education practices, methods or techniques. For more information visit: https://www.epa.gov/education

To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit: https://www.epa.gov/education/environmental-education-ee-grants. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.

GUAM — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of the University of Maine and Learning Endeavors to receive competitive grants for environmental education projects in the Pacific Islands. These organizations have been chosen for their exceptional work in promoting youth ecological stewardship and environmental education, with projects focused on environmental justice, water resource challenges, and watershed health.

“This year’s grant recipients are bringing to life the most innovative and effective ideas to engage Pacific Island youth in addressing today’s urgent environmental challenges,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “EPA is so proud to support these organizations’ efforts to make progress toward a future with clean air, clean water, and land for all.”

The University of Maine and Learning Endeavors projects have been selected for two of the 38 grants nationwide announced today by the EPA. The projects supported by these grants aim to increase public awareness of environmental issues and provide skills so participants can make informed decisions and take responsible actions toward the environment.

Learning Endeavors - Champions of Coastal Resilience Project

EPA is awarding a $80,000 grant to Learning Endeavors for a wetland education and restoration in the Pacific project. This effort aims to increase environmental literacy in Pacific Island communities – in Hawaii, American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and Palau -- facing coastal impacts due to climate change, empowering them to lead coastal resilience efforts.

“Learning Endeavors is thrilled to have this opportunity to expand its Champions of Coastal Resilience initiative, which began in Hawaii four years ago to include additional Pacific Island communities,” said Executive Director Diana Papini Warren. “We look forward to growing our partnerships and helping to build capacity through a sub-award competition that will result in innovative wetland education and restoration.  We believe in offering a solution-oriented approach to climate science education - one that integrates cultural perspectives and that is customized to local wetland ecology.”

University of Maine – Conflict Contamination in Palau

EPA is awarding $69,814 to support youth-led community action, braiding Indigenous and Western science to address conflict contamination and prevent future military contamination in Palau. This project addresses World War II contamination by integrating Indigenous and Western science through youth-led community action.

“We are honored and humbled to be working in collaboration with our Palauan colleagues to center young people’s teaching and learning about war pollution and military contaminants in Palau,” said Postdoctoral Fellow at Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability Caroline Ferguson Irlanda. “This project builds on six years of partnership with Ebiil Society to connect Palauan knowledge holders and youth in work that advances environmentally just and safe communities.”

EPA Environmental Education Grants

Since 1992, the EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in EE grant funding each year for over $95.1 million, supporting over 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate, or disseminate environmental education practices, methods, or techniques. For more information, visit https://www.epa.gov/education.

The EPA is funding 38 organizations nationwide with over $3.6 million. The funding will range from $50,000 to $100,000 for organizations that provide environmental education activities and programs. This year’s grantees will conduct project activities in 28 states and the Republic of Palau, America Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam.

To learn more about current and past award winners or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit: https://www.epa.gov/education/environmental-education-ee-grants. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.  

Learn about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X. 

WASHINGTON — Today, July 8, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of 38 organizations to receive over $3.6 million in funding for projects under the Environmental Education Grants Program.

“Advancing environmental education advances EPA’s mission because it better equips our communities with the information they need to protect public health today and in the future,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “This year’s environmental education grant recipients will work in underserved communities across the country to foster a deeper understanding of environmental challenges and inspire action towards sustainable solutions.”  

The funding will range from $50,000 to $100,000, to organizations that provide environmental education activities and programs. This year’s grantees will conduct project activities in 28 states and the Republic of Palau, America Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam.

This year’s environmental education projects include:

• Helping young people in New England grow into a new, inclusive generation of environmental justice problem-solvers through a series of linked experiences.
• Using urban greening initiatives (e.g., tree planting, nature-based solutions, and urban gardening) to help address the impacts of climate change and air pollution in Camden, New Jersey, an environmental justice and overburdened community.
• Transforming a state-of-the-art electric bus into a roving electric classroom that will bring immersive environmental education experiences to 21 Title I elementary schools in Henrico County, Virginia.
• Recruiting educators in Tennessee, particularly from underserved communities, to participate in a year-long cohort focused on environmental education through the lens of addressing climate change resulting in cohort members including climate change education across the curriculum. 
• Educating 400 underserved youth in Milwaukee and Southeast Wisconsin on the impacts of climate change in environmental justice communities, empowering them with indigenous knowledge to combat climate change, take action, and create local solutions. 
• Employing “meaningful watershed experiences” to empower students, teachers, and community members in Houston, Texas, fostering watershed stewardship to design and implement nature-based solutions to flooding that aim to reduce storm water run-off and the associated pollutants from entering the water supply.
• Engaging students from diverse backgrounds in Kansas and Missouri to come together, dialogue, and take action to address existing barriers to their involvement and interest in green careers.
• Enhancing interest, opportunities, and involvement in green careers for 100 students in rural Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah through the creation of online career resources, statewide virtual youth green careers summits, school-based action projects, mentorship programs and more.
• Braiding indigenous and western science through youth-led community action in the Republic of Palau to address contamination left behind from World War II.
• Establishing a K-12 classroom and outdoor learning space on a peatland conservation parcel in Homer, Alaska, where school visits and field trips will enable students to directly engage with local peatlands, construct native plant gardens, and more.

The following organizations have been selected to receive this year’s Environmental Education Grants:

• CASA, Inc. (CASA de Maryland)
• Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education
• Desert Research Institute        
• Ecology Project International 
• Explora Science Center & Childrens Museum of Albuquerque
• Galveston Bay Foundation     
• Henrico County Public Schools
• Hitchcock Center for the Environment
• Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group
• Hubbard County Solid Waste Conservation District  
• Industry Initiatives for Science and Math Education (Ignited)
• Ipswich River Watershed Association
• Ivy Academy
• Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education
• Learning Endeavors
• Louisiana Environmental Action Network      
• Massachusetts Audubon Society
• Minnesota State University - Mankato            
• Mississippi State University
• Missouri River Bird Observatory
• National Wildlife Federation (Atlanta)
• National Wildlife Federation (Houston)
• Neighborhood House of Milwaukee
• New Haven Ecological Project
• New York Sun Works
• Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association
• Openlands       
• Protect Our Water Jackson Hole         
• Rowan University
• Sierra Streams Institute
• Takshanuk Watershed Council             
• The Living Classrooms Foundation
• Trail Blazers
• University of Alaska - Anchorage
• University of Maine    
• Upper Iowa University
• Women for a Healthy Environment
• Youth Environmental Alliance

EPA anticipates providing funding for these projects once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.

Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in EE grant funding each year, for a total of over $95.1 million supporting more than 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate, or disseminate environmental education practices, methods, or techniques. For more information, visit EPA’s Environmental Education webpage.   

To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit the Environmental Education Grants webpage. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.  

SAN FRANCISCO — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the selection of California’s Ignited and Sierra Streams Institute to receive competitive grants for environmental projects in California. These organizations have been chosen for their exceptional work in promoting youth ecological stewardship and environmental education, with projects focused on environmental justice, water resource challenges, and watershed health.

“This year's grant recipients bring to life the most innovative and effective ideas to engage California’s youth in addressing today’s urgent environmental challenges,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “EPA is so proud to support these organization's efforts to make progress toward a future with clean air, clean water, and land for all."

Ignited and Sierra Streams Institute projects have been selected for two of 38 grants nationwide being announced today by EPA. The projects supported by these grants aim to increase public awareness of environmental issues and provide skills so participants can make informed decisions and take responsible actions toward the environment.

Ignited - Water Weeks Expansion Project

EPA is awarding a $60,000 grant to Ignited for its Water Weeks Expansion Project, which extends environmental justice education through a one-week externship on water resource issues for K-12th grade teachers in Title I schools.

In partnership with BAYWORK and local water agencies, the program will guide teachers to meet industry professionals and tour facilities like wastewater plants, freshwater reservoirs, and dams. Alongside a Curriculum Coach, teachers will craft lesson plans that hook students through environmental activism, inspiring and preparing them for future careers. These teacher-created environmental and educational activities will be hosted online for teachers across the nation to access.

“EPA’s Environmental Education Program provides invaluable support in our mission to transform local education by empowering teachers with direct industry connections,” said Ignited CEO Emily Dilger, PhD. “We are thrilled to expand our work with EPA to infuse classrooms with environmental justice education, inspiring the next generation of our workforce in environmental stewardship."

Sierra Streams Institute - Leveraging Place-Based Education from the Valley to the Foothills 

EPA is also awarding $100,000 to Sierra Streams Institute for its Leveraging Place-Based Education from the Valley to the Foothills effort. This project aims to increase youth participation in place-based environmental education and promote communication around watershed health to enhance ecological stewardship.

The project will promote diverse perspectives among Western Nevada County and Yuba County students, to inspire a new generation of environmental study and action. The program will empower stakeholders over 50 schools to expand accessible outdoor spaces and EE activities for the 25,000 K-12 youth within the region.

"Sierra Streams Institute is excited to embark on a new environmental education collaboration to make outdoor field sites and resources accessible to K-12 students in the greater Yuba and Nevada County region,” said Education Program Director Sol Henson. “This project will also create opportunities for students across the region to share their place-based experiences and to communicate on the importance of using sound science to steward our natural places."

EPA Environmental Education Grants

Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in EE grant funding each year, for a total of over $95.1 million supporting more than 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate or disseminate environmental education practices, methods or techniques. For more information visit: https://www.epa.gov/education.

EPA is funding 38 organizations nationwide with over $3.6 million. The funding will range from $50,000 to $100,000, to organizations that provide environmental education activities and programs. This year’s grantees will conduct project activities in 28 states and the Republic of Palau, America Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam.

To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit: https://www.epa.gov/education/environmental-education-ee-grants. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.  

Learn about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X. 

LAS VEGAS — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of Nevada’s System of Higher Education (NSHE) Board of Regents at the Desert Research Institute (DRI) to receive a competitive grant for environmental education in Nevada. This organization has been chosen for its exceptional work in promoting youth ecological stewardship and environmental education, with the grant supporting a project to mitigate microplastics in Nevada waterways.

“This year's grant recipient brings to life the most innovative and effective ideas to engage Nevada’s youth in addressing today’s urgent environmental challenges,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “EPA is so proud to support this organization's efforts to make progress toward a future with clean air, clean water, and land for all." 

The funding for the DRI is one of 38 grants nationwide being announced today by EPA. The projects supported by these grants aim to increase public awareness of environmental issues and provide skills so participants can make informed decisions and take responsible actions toward the environment.

Board of Regents, NSHE DRI - Mitigating Microplastics

EPA is awarding $100,000 to DRI to increase Nevada's environmental literacy through science, technology, engineering and mathematics educational interventions to address microplastic pollution in Nevada’s waterways. The goal of  this project is to increase stewardship through STEM-based environmental education.

“DRI is honored to be awarded this EPA grant, and we are eager to begin our outreach to underserved rural and urban communities across Nevada,” said DRI STEM Education Program Manager Emily McDonald-Williams. “Middle school students and their families will learn about emerging environmental concerns and how to make informed decisions to help mitigate environmental issues.”

EPA Environmental Education Grants

Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in EE grant funding each year, for a total of over $95.1 million supporting more than 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate or disseminate environmental education practices, methods or techniques. For more information visit: https://www.epa.gov/education.

The EPA is funding 38 organizations nationwide with over $3.6 million. The funding will range from $50,000 to $100,000, to organizations that provide environmental education activities and programs. This year’s grantees will conduct project activities in 28 states and the Republic of Palau, America Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam.

To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit: https://www.epa.gov/education/environmental-education-ee-grants. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.  

Learn about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.