• $4.3 billion in Climate Pollution Reduction Grants to tackle climate change.
• Projects to reduce GHG by 971 million metric tons CO2 equivalent by 2050.
• Grants support clean energy, economic growth, and job creation.

The Biden-Harris Administration has announced $4.3 billion in Climate Pollution Reduction Grants as part of the Investing in America agenda. This initiative, spearheaded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), targets community-driven solutions to mitigate climate change, enhance air quality, and promote environmental justice.

Key Projects and Impact

The selected projects span 30 states and one Tribe, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions across six sectors: transportation, electric power, buildings, industry, agriculture, and waste management. Combined, these initiatives aim to reduce greenhouse gas pollution by up to 971 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2050, equivalent to the energy use of 5 million homes over 25 years.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan: “President Biden believes in the power of community-driven solutions to fight climate change, protect public health, and grow our economy. The Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program will deliver unprecedented resources to states, local governments, and Tribes to fund the solutions that work best in their communities.”

State-Specific Initiatives

Pennsylvania:

• Over $396 million for RISE PA to reduce industrial GHG emissions.
• Governor Josh Shapiro: “This investment will help us reduce toxic air pollution, create thousands of jobs, invest in our energy sector, and continue Pennsylvania’s legacy of energy leadership.”

California:

• Nearly $500 million for South Coast Air Quality Management District to decarbonize transportation and freight.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

The grants are expected to:

• Deploy clean technologies and programs to cut greenhouse gases.
• Build infrastructure, housing, and industry for a clean energy future.
• Spur economic growth and job creation in emerging sectors.
• Support training programs to prepare workers for new industries.

John Podesta, Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy: “These grants will help state and local governments improve the air quality and health of their communities, while accelerating America’s progress toward our climate goals.”

Future Announcements and Broader Impact

EPA plans to announce an additional $300 million in grants for Tribes and territories later this summer. These efforts align with the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader climate strategies, including the Justice40 Initiative, aiming to ensure 40% of the benefits from federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities.

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White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi: “As part of President Biden’s historic climate laws, today’s funding announcement for locally led projects will support community priorities while animating a race to the top on climate jobs.“

This comprehensive approach demonstrates the Administration’s commitment to tackling climate change through collaborative, community-focused initiatives, ensuring both environmental sustainability and economic prosperity for future generations.