by hlindsay
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To help mitigate the negative impact federal agencies have on the environment, President Biden signed an executive order to set up a new Office of Environmental Justice. The office will hold federal agencies responsible for harmful environmental health impacts on communities and work with them to prevent future harm. Discover what other environmental justice initiatives were announced.
The Inflation Reduction Act Spotlights the Need to Better Support Tribal Communities in Response to Climate Change
President Biden’s climate change law, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), set aside $720 million in funding for tribal governments to improve energy efficiency and develop more resilient energy strategies. This funding, alongside other resources provided by IRA programs, strengthens tribal governments and helps reduce the widespread energy poverty present in their communities. Head to Legal Planet to get additional information on IRA provisions.
Energy Efficiency Helps Communities Become Climate Resilient
To mitigate the impact of extreme heat, flooding, and other weather-related incidents, the Department of Energy (DOE) encourages investment in energy-efficient technology to improve climate resilience. The DOE helps communities become safer, more equitable, and economically stronger by providing resources through its Office of State and Community Energy Programs. Learn more on DOE’s website.
$4.6 Billion in Grants Unveiled to Reduce Climate Pollution
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new grant competition will fund state, local, and Tribal programs and policies that support environmental justice, advance clean-energy solutions, and tackle climate pollution. By funding measures that bring economic and health benefits to low-income and disadvantaged communities, the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants competition will also advance President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative. Visit EPA’s website to get more details.
Projects to Improve Energy Efficiency and Sustainability at Federal Buildings Funded Through Grant Program
Nineteen federal projects will receive over $28 million in funding under the Assisting Federal Facilities with Energy Conservation Technologies (AFFECT) grant program. These projects are projected to save $22.7 million in annual energy costs. The AFFECT grant program plays a key role in achieving net-zero emissions from federal buildings by 2045. Visit the Department of Energy’s website to learn how this impacts the Biden Administration’s Federal Sustainability Plan.
