Friday, December 13, 2013

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EPA launches $4M grant program for clean diesel port projects

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced a $4 million grant program for clean diesel projects aimed at reducing emissions from marine and inland water ports, many of which are in areas that face environmental justice challenges. 

“Ports are essential to the nation’s economy and transportation infrastructure, but they also are home to some of the nation’s toughest environmental challenges,” said Janet McCabe, acting assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. “These grants will help port authorities to provide immediate emissions reductions that will benefit those who work and live in port-side communities.”

Ports located near large metropolitan areas can expose people in nearby communities to high levels of diesel emissions. Older diesel engines discharge significant amounts of pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, that are linked serious health problems including asthma, lung and heart disease, other respiratory ailments, and even premature death.

Clean diesel projects at ports, employing readily available technology, will make immediate emissions reductions and provide health benefits.

This grant competition is available under the Diesel Emission Reduction Act Program and is the first competition to focus on solely reducing emissions at ports.

Under this competition, EPA anticipates awarding between two and five assistance agreements to port authorities through the DERA program.

The closing date for receipt of proposals is February 13, 2014.


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