In a move that has drawn significant scrutiny, the Biden-Harris administration has awarded $400 million in EPA grants to organizations linked to its environmental justice advisers. This funding, aimed at bolstering clean energy initiatives and climate resilience in marginalized communities, is part of a broader $2 billion investment under President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act. However, the allocation of these funds has raised questions about potential "green corruption."
These grants are channeled through the Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking (EJ TCGM) program. This program, touted as the largest single investment in environmental justice, is designed to support community-driven projects addressing pollution and other environmental hazards that disproportionately affect disadvantaged areas.
This week, the EPA announced $4.3 billion in funding for communities to cut emissions, reduce air pollution, and train their workforces.
The money came from the Inflation Reduction Act.
Time to elect Harris and continue passing bold climate / industrial policies. pic.twitter.com/rcU6XqoY4U
— Michael Thomas (@curious_founder) July 23, 2024
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the historic nature of this funding, stating that it aims to turn overburdened areas into thriving communities. "Thanks to President Biden’s commitment, we are delivering on the calls for action from communities that have long struggled to access federal funding," Regan said. This initiative is seen as a direct response to feedback from environmental advocates during the EPA's "Journey to Justice" tour.
Despite these lofty goals, the disbursement of funds has sparked concerns over potential conflicts of interest and allegations of "green corruption." Critics argue that the grants are being funneled to groups with close ties to the administration, raising questions about the transparency and fairness of the process. This controversy mirrors previous criticisms of the administration's environmental policies and their implementation.
The EPA is awarding $4.3BIL in grants to fund projects in 30 states to ⬇️ climate pollution.
PA is one of those states.
NE is also-receiving $307MIL for "climats-smart" ag.
As a reminder: this is part of the Inflation Reduction Act.
Thanks, Biden-Harris! https://t.co/RABLnMNy9q— Meena Bewtra (@DrsMeena) July 24, 2024
The EPA's Community Change Grants, part of this broader initiative, are structured to provide up to $1.96 billion for around 150 projects, each receiving between $10-20 million. These projects include efforts to mitigate climate and health risks from urban heat islands, reduce indoor air pollution, and develop low-emission technologies . Additionally, $200 million is allocated for technical assistance to help disadvantaged communities access these funds.
John Podesta, Senior Advisor to the President for Clean Energy Innovation and Implementation, highlighted the importance of these investments in addressing historical injustices. "For far too long, communities that have borne the brunt of power plant and industrial pollution have been left out and left behind," Podesta stated. The administration's Justice40 Initiative aims to ensure that 40% of the benefits from federal investments flow to these marginalized communities.
Vice President Kamala Harris and EPA Administrator Regan were joined by Dr. Robert Bullard, a prominent environmental justice advocate, to announce the grants. Harris underscored the administration's commitment to environmental equity, asserting that every person has the right to clean air and water. "Today’s announcement puts that commitment into action by ensuring critical resources reach the organizations that know their communities best," Harris said.
The 11 selected grantmakers under the EJ TCGM program include a mix of regional and national organizations, such as Fordham University in New York and Texas Southern University. These grantmakers are responsible for designing application processes, awarding subgrants, and providing support to ensure the successful implementation of projects (US EPA).
