Envirobytes - Archive

ENVIROBYTES, A SUMMARY OF ISSUES AND EVENTS FOR WEEKS ENDING DECEMBER 9, 2011 AND DECEMBER 16, 2011

EPA ACCEPTING PROPOSALS FOR PROJECTS THAT RESTORE URBAN WATERS AND REVITALIZE COMMUNITIES

On Dec. 7, EPA announced proposals for up to $1.8 million to $3.8 million in Urban Waters Small Grants to fund education, training and research projects that will restore urban waters from sewage, runoff and industrial pollution and bring about community revitalization.  The deadline for submissions is Jan. 23, 2012.  EPA expects to award the grants in summer 2012.  For information about the grants and registration for the webinar to be held on Jan. 5, 2012, go to: https://www.epa.gov/urbanwaters/funding

EPA ENFORCEMENT AND COMPLIANCE PROGRAM ANNOUNCES FAVORABLE RESULTS IN 2011

On Dec. 8, EPA released its Fiscal Year 2011 enforcement and compliance results which focused on the most serious air, water, waste and chemical hazards. This year’s strategy resulted in successful environmental outcomes that will benefit communities and deter violators of environmental laws. For more information on EPA’s FY 2011 enforcement and compliance results, go to  https://epa.gov/compliance/resources/reports/endofyear/eoy2011/index.html For more information on EPA’s national enforcement initiatives: https://epa.gov/compliance/data/planning/initiatives/index.html

EPA ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR REGION 3 ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE SMALL GRANTS UNTIL FEB. 29, 2012

Applications for the 2012 environmental justice small grants are now open until Feb. 29, 2012.  EPA is making available two teleconference calls on Jan. 12, and Feb.1 to help applicants with the requirements. The grants will enable non-profit organizations to conduct research, provide education, and develop solutions to local health and environmental issues in communities overburdened by pollution. For the Request for Proposals and schedule of pre-application teleconference calls, go to http://1.usa.gov/utmmdh

SEPTA RECEIVES $1.2 MILLION GRANT TO IMPROVE AIR QUALITY BY REDUCING DIESEL EMISSIONS

On Dec. 8, EPA Regional Administrator Shawn M. Garvin announced that SEPTA had been awarded a $1.2 million EPA Diesel Emissions Reduction Act Program grant to repower an old SEPTA maintenance locomotive to run on clean diesel by mid-2012.  The technology provides a diesel particulate filter to help eliminate particulate matter emissions, reduce noise and benefit the air quality of surrounding communities. To learn more about EPA’s Mid-Atlantic Clean Diesel Program, visit https://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/diesel/index.htm.

EPA LISTS THREE HYDROCARBON SUBSTITUTES IN EFFORT TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS

On Dec. 14, EPA announced it has approved three hydrocarbon refrigerants: propane, isobutane, and a chemical known as R-441A as acceptable alternatives for use with household and small commercial refrigerators and freezers in its effort to reduce ozone-depleting substances. Replacing older refrigerants will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 660,000 tons by 2020, the EPA said.  For more information, go to: http://www.upi.com/Science_News/2011/12/14/EPA-lists-refrigerant-substitutes/UPI-86131323911922/#ixzz1gbmkRBeH

AUGUSTA COUNTY WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT TWICE HONORED FOR PROTECTING PUBLIC DRINKING WATER SUPPLY, PROMOTING NUTRIENT REMOVAL AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY

On Dec. 15, EPA awarded two prestigious awards to the Augusta County Service Authority, in Augusta County, Va.  The Source Water Protection Award was awarded to the wastewater treatment plant for effective nutrient removal, increasing energy efficiency, and sustainability in protecting drinking water sources. The PISCES award was given to the plant for the effectiveness and sustainability of the wastewater treatment process in protecting local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay.

HEALTHY WATERS BLOG CURRENT HIGHLIGHTS

NEW YEAR, NEW STUDENT EXCHANGE -  Nominations are now open for the 8th annual Schuylkill Action Network Drinking Water Scholastic Awards.  To qualify you must lead or participate in a classroom lesson or outdoor project that improves the water quality of the Schuylkill River. Students in kindergarten through college are eligible for a prize if you enter by March 2, 2012.  To learn more, visit: http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=v6qlnbcab&oeidk=a07e5425qmq59cca5d3 

LONGWOOD GARDENS HAS LARGEST GREEN WALL IN NORTH AMERICA -
Longwood Gardens, located in Kennett Square about 30 miles from Philadelphia, has a new attraction.  Visitors can admire the innovative green walls added to frame 17 restrooms with a carefully-selected variety of plants which serve to purify the water and reduce overall water consumption.  Join us to learn more at  http://blog.epa.gov/healthywaters/.