EPA Selects Two Centers to Boost Environmental Justice in Underserved Communities
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the selection of two centers to serve as Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers (EJ TCTACs). The Deep South Center for Environmental Justice and New Mexico State University will each receive significant funding to support underserved communities in their respective regions.
The EPA aims to break down barriers and ensure all communities can access benefits from President Biden's historic agenda. Each center will receive at least $10 million to help communities access funds from the Investing in America agenda. The Deep South Center will receive $13 million, while New Mexico State University will receive $10 million.
The Deep South Center plans to establish a Community Investment and Recovery Center to serve rural, remote, and underserved communities in Regions 4 and 6. New Mexico State University, on the other hand, plans to create the South-Central Environmental Justice Resource Center, focusing on underserved communities and rural areas in Region 6. These centers will provide resources to unlock access to President Biden's historic investments in America.
The formation of these centers is a response to feedback from communities and environmental justice leaders. The EPA has selected a total of 17 EJ TCTACs, including three national centers, to provide comprehensive coverage for the entire United States. The EPA will deliver these resources in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy to support clean energy transition and financing options.
The EPA's initiative to establish these centers is a significant step towards ensuring that all communities, regardless of their location or resources, can benefit from the President's historic agenda. The selected centers will play a crucial role in providing technical assistance and unlocking access to funding for underserved communities across the country.
