EPA just made the largest-ever environmental justice grant. Here’s what it means in NC.
From overhauling a community college building in High Point to replacing lead pipes in Brunswick County, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is funding three North Carolina projects with a program it is calling the largest-ever investment in climate and environmental justice. The agency’s Community Change Grants Program is awarding a total of $1.6 billion to 105 projects nationwide, funding through the Inflation Reduction Act, Democrats’ hallmark climate legislation under President Joe Biden.
The grants are coming at a moment when organizations and activists who work on environmental justice are concerned about their efforts losing traction — and funding. EPA Administrator Michael Regan told The News & Observer the three North Carolina projects offer “a flavor” of different ways to think about climate and environmental justice.
“We’re looking at pollution protection but we’re looking at the anticipation of and sustainable ways to endure the climate impacts that we’re facing. But we’re also wanting to ensure that every community has the opportunity to be educated and prepared and trained to participate in the clean energy economy,” Regan said.
In North Carolina, those projects include:
- $18.5 million to a coalition led by the Southwest Renewal Foundation for a project called “Grey to Green” in High Point. The funds will help pay for sewer rehabilitation in Southwest High Point; help Guilford Technical Community College renovate a building for training in HVAC, electric vehicle batteries and other trades; and help install a new HVAC system at Fairview Elementary School, among other projects. The grant will also help plant 1,000 native trees and shrubs.
- $20 million to The Working Lands Trust and Democracy Green for a project in the Ash, Longwood and Supply areas of Brunswick County. The groups will test water quality at homes and public buildings built before 1986, with plans to identify and replace lead pipes in 425 buildings. It will also restore wetlands in the Lockwood Folly River Watershed.
- Nearly $3 million to MDC Inc. and Hispanic Federation to train community leaders from six rural Eastern North Carolina community organizations on the government process. The grant will also compile data about Eastern North Carolina infrastructure and impacts from floods such as Hurricanes Matthew and Florence.
From the News and Observer (12/13/24). Read more here.
