PHOTOS FROM THE FIELD: Week of March 121 – 25, 2022
PHOTOS FROM THE FIELD
NTAA’s Alaska Air Update Published Today in NTAA’s latest EC Update Video
NTAA has just published the latest NTAA EC Update Video from Alaska! Thanks to Shannon Isaacs from the Craig Tribal Association in Alaska for her help in putting together the monthly NTAA EC Update Video on NTAA’s home page TODAY! Be sure to learn about the Tribal Air Quality issues directly from additional NTAA EC members here! Stay tuned for what comes next month!
TOP STORIES/HEADLINES: Week of March 21 – 25, 2022
Top Stories
EPA is developing a new website and will post more information in the coming months about the Clean School Bus Program here!
For more information, EPA is also hosting a Webinar on March 23rd at 1:00 pm EST. You can register and log on here! EPA’s new page will feature information about electric and alternative fuel buses, technical resources for feets about infrastructure considerations, information about upcoming funding opportunities, and details about how to apply.
NTAA News!
Registration for the 2022 National Tribal Forum on Air Quality is now open! Click here to register to attend in-person or virtually. NTFAQ’s Planning Committees have been busy planning this year’s forum hosted by the Miscogee Nation in Tulsa, Oklahoma, May 2-5, 2022. You can learn more about the NTFAQ and NTAA’s Annual Meeting that will take place during NTFAQ on NTAA’s website here. Be sure to contact andy.bessler@nau.edu if you have any questions!
Call For Proposals for The Nationa Tribal & Indigenous Climate Conference is now open!
The Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals (ITEP) Tribes and Climate Change Program announced the opening for the call for proposals for the upcoming 2022 National Tribal & Indigenous Climate Conference (NTICC) in St. Paul, MN and online August 29 – September 1, 2022.
We welcome proposals that discuss climate-related impacts, assessments, tools, adaptation, mitigation, actions, and the intersection of Traditional/Indigenous Knowledges with western science and adaptation strategies and are accepting both in-person and virtual proposals. Proposal submissions include: Presentations, Trainings, Working Groups, & Climate Conversations
We are particularly excited about our new Climate Conversation proposal category which is seeking submissions for art, games, posters, demonstrations, films, and more to further engage NTICC attendees in Tribal climate work.
Application deadline: Friday, April 22nd by close of business
Letter of notification: Monday, June 6th
Materials deadline: Friday, August 5th
For more information and to apply, please visit our website.
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes News
E&E News – EPA chemical review tool sparks environmental justice worries
Utility Dive – Virginia report lays groundwork for state’s exit from regional emissions trading group
Inside Climate News – ‘Last Gasp for Coal’ Saw Illinois Plants Crank up Emission-Spewing Production Last Year
NM Political Report – EMNRD officials say eminent domain will not be part of 30×30
AP News – California governor floats $100M plan for tribes to buy land
Utility Dive – Senate bill directs FERC to bolster interregional transmission planning, require GHG reporting
Native News Online – Virtual National Tribal Public Health Summit elevates public health policy and its impact on Tribes
Indian Country Today – National Congress of American Indians announces renewed vision
Here’s your link to this week’s NACAA Washington Update
Climate Change/Energy
Reuters – Biden administration plans to resume plans for federal oil and gas development
The Guardian – Heatwaves at both of Earth’s poles alarm climate scientists
19th News – Gender equality, climate and environmental issues take center stage at the United Nations
The Guardian – After Ukraine, how will the world replace Russia’s oil products?
Ap News – UN chief: Don’t let Russia crisis fuel climate destruction
The Atlantic – America’s Approach to Energy Security Is Broken
Axios – Behind the curtain of the UN’s climate panel
E&E News – Biden Supreme Court nominee faces big climate questions
USA Today – How will climate change impact American companies? The SEC unveils landmark proposal
E&E News – BLM staffers want more action on climate change, survey says
E&E News – Limitless clean power? White House makes risky bet on fusion
ITEP Tribes and Climate Change Monthly Newsletter
Toxics/Mobile Sources
Denver Post – Opinion: The EPA can reject Suncor’s pollution permit for Plant 2
CNN – Oil ’emergency’: Work from home and drive slower, IEA says
Axios – Axios Climate Truths: Race to net zero
Axios – 1. The Race to net zero emissions
Axios – Scoop: White House considered sending Americans gas cards
The Verge – Ford F-150 Lightning gets an EPA-confirmed range of up to 320 miles
Indoor Air Quality
E&E News – EPA helms White House indoor air plan to help fight Covid-19
Facility Executive – EPA Launches Clean Air In Buildings Challenge To Improve IAQ
UPCOMING CALLS/EVENTS/NOTICES: Week of March 21 – 25, 2022
UPCOMING CALLS/EVENTS/NOTICES
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes
EPA’s Community and Tribal Programs Group has a publicly facing Tribal Actions and Events calendar for all to use!
This calendar is also linked under the “Tribal Air and Climate Resources” webpage under the “Policy and Planning” heading available at https://www.epa.gov/tribal-air.
The purpose of the calendar is to ensure that our Tribal partners are kept apprised of EPA activities that are relevant to them. If you have any questions about the calendars or any recommendations on how EPA can improve upon the calendars please do not hesitate to reach out to Toni Colon (colon.toni@epa.gov) and/or Loren Fox (fox.loren@epa.gov) with any feedback.
NEW! EPA Clean School Bus Program Webinar
March 23, 2022 | 1:00 pm ET | Click Here To Attend/Register
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) provides $5 billion over fve years (FY22-26) for the replacement of existing school buses with lowand zero-emission school buses. Under the Clean School Bus Program, half of the available funding is dedicated for zero-emission school buses and half is for clean school buses.
Zero-emission school bus: a school bus that produces zero exhaust emission of any air pollutant and any greenhouse gas.
Clean school bus: As defned by the BIL, a school bus that reduces emissions and is operated entirely or in part using an alternative fuel or is a zero-emission bus. Eligible Recipients Eligible recipients are defned as: State or Local Governmental Entities That are responsible for: •
- Providing school bus service to one or more public school systems; or •
- Purchase of school buses.
Eligible Contractors
For proft, not-for-proft, or nonproft entity that has the capacity to: •
- Sell clean school buses, zero-emission buses, charging or fueling infrastructure, or other equipment needed to charge, fuel, or maintain clean or zero-emission school buses; or •
- Arrange fnancing for such a sale.
Nonproft School Transportation Associations Tribes, Tribal Organizations, and TriballyControlled Schools
That are responsible for: •
- Providing school bus service to one or more Bureau-funded schools; or •
- Purchase of school buses.
NEW! So, How Does This Work Again? The Role of Advisory Services in Fleet Electrification
March 25, 2022 | 3:00 pm ET | Click Here To Register
Suppose you are a fleet manager, in charge of your organization’s efficient transportation of people and goods. By necessity, you must be an expert at planning, budgeting, financing, purchasing, operations, scheduling, and the maintenance of vehicles that use fossil fuels. Now, suppose you have an opportunity to electrify your fleet. How can you effectively assess the economics and the complex logistical challenges of such a transition?
The answer is advisory services, assistance offered by utilities or other companies to educate and enable consumers — whether fleet managers or individuals — to make informed decisions. Join this Regulatory Assistance Project webinar to learn about the needs advisory services meet and elevate considerations for states as they further electrify their transportation sectors.
You will hear about fleet electrification from the varying perspectives of a school district, a transportation services provider, a technology company, and a utility.
NEW! Alliance for Electric School Buses, WRI’s Electric School Bus Initiative Webinar
March 30, 2022 | 1:00 pm ET | Click Here To Register
About the “Electric School Buses: Getting on Board” series:
Diesel school buses make up the vast majority of the U.S. school bus fleet, emitting harmful pollutants at rates up to 12x higher than ambient levels. Electric school buses offer a clean alternative, with no tailpipe emissions and air quality benefits that support students’ health and cognitive development.
As the EPA launches its Clean School Bus Program, providing up to $5 billion in funding for electric school buses, this is the moment to bring the benefits of electric school buses to the communities most harmed by air pollution. Join us for “Electric School Buses: Getting on Board,” a webinar series in which we’ll explore the electric school bus adoption process and how you can help bring electric school buses to your community.
NEW! DOE Tribal Consultation Session on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
March 29, 2022 | 2:00 – 5:00 pm ET | Click Here To Register and For More Informaiton
Please join U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) leaders for a Tribal consultation session on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) on Tuesday, March 29, 2022 from 2-5 p.m. ET. Your participation will help guide DOE in developing more than 60 new programs, with $62.5 billion in BIL funding, implementing the largest investment in generations in our nation’s infrastructure.
DOE leaders are interested in your feedback on:
‒What do you need from the Department of Energy to inform your BIL planning and preparation?
‒What are your Tribe’s most important technical assistance needs and why?
‒As you look across the BIL programs, which might be of most interest to your Tribe?
‒In your experience, what are the most useful and/or appropriate factors to consider when designing formula grants for Tribal governments?
Related resources include the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Program webpage (https://www.energy.gov/bil/bipartisan-infrastructure-law-programs) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Guidebook (https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/BUILDING-A-BETTER-AMERICA_FINAL.pdf)
EPA Awards $1.5 Million for Cleaner School Buses in the Pacific Southwest: American Rescue Plan Funds Help Buy Electric School Buses
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the winners of two national competitive efforts to support transitions to cleaner school buses: the 2021 American Rescue Plan (ARP) Electric School Bus Rebates, and the 2021 Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) School Bus Rebates. The two rebate efforts total approximately $17 million in combined funding nationwide for schools and bus fleet owners to replace older, high-polluting diesel school buses. In the Pacific Southwest, EPA is awarding a total of $1.5 million towards new school buses in Arizona, California, and Hawaii. Replacing these buses will improve air quality in and around schools and communities, reduce greenhouse gas pollution, and better protect children’s health overall.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides an unprecedented $5 billion over five years for the Clean School Bus Program to replace existing school buses with cleaner models. In Spring 2022, EPA plans to announce a new Clean School Bus rebate program for applicants to replace existing school buses with low- or zero-emission school buses. EPA may prioritize applications that replace school buses in high need local educational agencies, low-income and rural areas, Tribal schools, and applications that provide cost share. To learn more about the upcoming Clean School Bus Program, please visit http://www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus.
To learn more about the rebate programs, applicant eligibility, and selection process, visit https://www.epa.gov/dera/rebates and https://www.epa.gov/dera/2021-american-rescue-plan-arp-electric-school-bus-rebates.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on Twitter.
The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) invite you to a Tribal consultation to discuss the development of Guidance for Federal Agencies on Indigenous Traditional Ecological Knowledge (ITEK).
The consultations will take place at the following times:
Tribal Consultation 1:Tuesday, April 5, 2022. 3:30-5:30 pm EDT
Register in advance for the meeting here: https://pitc.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_KMwXKWx2QFypxyaOgxV2UQ
Tribal Consultation 2: Friday, April 29, 2022. 3:00 – 5:00 pm EDT Register in advance for the meeting here:
https://pitc.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_NOcHbTPzTZSgmhHr9eUcFA
Please view the Dear Tribal Letter Here . If you have any questions regarding this effort, please contact ITEK@ostp.eop.gov.
EPA to Hold Public Listening Session on Draft Lead Strategy For All Regions
February – March 2022 | Register Here For Your Regions Listening Session
EPA is hosting Zoom virtual public comment sessions in each of its ten geographic regional office areas from early February to early March 2022. The sessions will be an opportunity for the public to provide verbal input on the draft Lead Strategy to EPA. We encourage the public to share with the Agency thoughts on how to address lead issues in their communities during these regional sessions (e.g., Northeast, Southwest, Mid-Atlantic, etc.).
EPA will use the feedback received during this public comment period to determine if additional revisions need to be incorporated into the Lead Strategy before it is finalized.
- EPA will accept public comments until March 16, 2022.
- Comments can be submitted in writing to docket EPA-HQ-OLEM-2021-0762 at Regulations.gov.
NTAA Upcoming Calls
Contact Andy.Bessler@nau.edu if you have any questions about any call! *Registration instructions* When you register for the GoToWebinar, please remember to include your Tribe, Region, or Organization in parenthesis after your last name. This allows you to see everyone on the call and prevents us from conducting a roll-call, ultimately saving everyone’s time.
IAQ Work Group: Join the bi-monthly calls of the NTAA IAQ work group. Attend by clicking here. | Thursday, March 24, 2pm ET |
Alaska Air Work Group: Join this work group to hear updates from EPA and Alaskans working on air quality. Attend by clicking here. | Wednesday, March 30,
10 am AK |
EPA Policy Call: Call in to hear updates from EPA on policies, actions, and tools relevant to Indian Country and Air Quality. Attend by clicking here. | Thursday, March 31, 2pm ET |
Mobile Sources Work Group: This monthly work group addresses all mobile source pollution issues. Attend by clicking here. | Thursday,
April 7, 2 pm ET |
Wood Smoke Work Group: Join this work group every other month to address wood smoke issues in Indian Country. Attend by clicking here. | Thursday, March 24,
2pm ET
|
The Institute for Tribal Environmental Professional (ITEP)
Click here for ITEP’s new Tribal Environmental Management and Planning Online Courses. Sign up for a self-paced course hosted by ITEP’s Waste and Response and Tribal Air Quality programs. New courses have been added, so check it out!
ITEP’s American Indian Air Quality Training Program (AIAQTP) hosts the Building Performance: Improving IAQ in Cold Climates, Residential Building Science Review, Radon Fundamentals, Quality Assurance Fundamental, Writing a Quality Assurance Project Plan, Emissions Inventory Fundamentals, and Emissions Inventory Advanced.
AIAQTP Schedule and Registration
Recorded Webinars
Looking for more information check out the Tribal Air Quality Media Space Channel. Recent webinars include an Introduction to Air Quality Programs, Emissions Inventories, Remote Professional Assistance, and Woodstoves in Indian Country. Older classics include a series on Air Quality Planning for Wildland Smoke, Tribal Air Program and Grants, Data Management, and the Clean Air Act.
ITEP’s Tribes and Climate Change Calendar includes conferences, trainings, webinars, and other events related to tribes and climate change.
EPA Tools and Resources Webinar Series
Click here to see all past and upcoming webinars hosted by the EPA.
Climate Change / Energy
NEW! EPA’s Office of Atmospheric Programs is hosting two separate stakeholder meetings related to two upcoming rulemakings under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2020.
The first will be on Thursday, March 24, from 2:00 – 3:30 pm EDT on an upcoming proposed rulemaking under subsection (i), “Technology Transitions,” of the AIM Act. This subsection provides EPA authority to restrict the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in sectors or subsectors where they are used. EPA will discuss petitions received under this subsection to restrict the use of HFCs in the refrigeration and air conditioning, aerosols, and foams sectors.
The second will be held Wednesday, March 30, 2022, from 3:00 – 4:00 pm EDT on an upcoming proposed rulemaking to update the HFC Allowance and Allocation and Program under the AIM Act. In September 2021, EPA finalized a framework rule, “Phasedown of Hydrofluorocarbons: Establishing the Allowance Allocation and Trading Program under the AIM Act” (86 FR 55116), that established the national HFC phasedown program and an initial methodology for allocating and trading HFC allowances for 2022 and 2023. This upcoming rulemaking will build off the 2021 rulemaking to establish the allowance allocation methodology for 2024 and later years.
Registration information for both meetings will be available at http://www.epa.gov/climate-hfcs-reduction. Please contact Nancy Akerman (akerman.nancy@epa.gov) if you have any questions.
NEW! SAVE THE DATE: Upcoming Climate Action & Capacity Building Virtual Workshop Hosted by ITEP
March 22-23, 2022 | Register Here | Registration Closes February 28, 2022
Hosted by:
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) & US Mexico Border 2025 Program/Fronterra 2025 Programa
- ITEP’s Tribes & Climate Change Program
Who should attend?
- Tribes in EPA region 9 with an interest in US – Mexico border region
- Tribes in the US – Mexico border region
- Environmental Professionals, Non-profits & others working on climate issues in US – Mexico border region
- Tribes in EPA region 9 and US – Mexico border regions will receive first preference.
Topics will include:
- Climate change impacts
- Adaptation and mitigation
- Indigenous and Traditional knowledges
- Tribal case studies
- Science, data, resources, fundings, etc.
EPA has updated the Tribal Greenhouse Gas Inventory Tool
EPA’s free, spreadsheet-based Tribal Greenhouse Gas Inventory Tool, first launched in 2013 and updated annually, is based on nationally and internationally recognized GHG accounting and reporting principles.
This year’s updates include:
- An optional market-based method to calculate Scope 2 emissions from electricity purchased through contractual instruments, such as Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs).
- Revised Emissions & Generation Resource Integrated Database (eGRID) factors from 1990 through 2019, as available.
- Updated default stationary energy emission factors and heat contents.
- Kerosene and distillate fuel oil as additional stationary energy fuel types.
Find the updated Tribal community and government operations modules and users’ guides here: https://www.epa.gov/statelocalenergy/tribal-greenhouse-gas-inventory-tool
Are you a long-time inventory tool user with questions about the new updates? Or is this your first GHG inventory? Join this webinar or upcoming offices hours to learn more and ask questions:
Save the Date: 2022 Southwestern Tribal Climate Change Summit
May 16 – 18, 2022 @ the Pala, CA | Register Here
In partnership with the La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians, the Pala Band of Mission Indians, and the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals, the Climate Science Alliance is excited to co-host the 2022 Southwestern Tribal Climate Change Summit (SWTCCS).
ITEP’s Climate Change Adaptation Training Courses registration is online!
Learn more about the courses and register here.
Toxics/Mobile Sources
NEW! MULTI-STATE MEDIUM- AND HEAVY-DUTY ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLE ACTION PLAN: A Policy Framework to Eliminate Harmful Truck and Bus Emissions
On behalf of the signatories of the Multi-State Medium- and Heavy-Duty (MHD) Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the Northeast States for Coordinated Air Use Management (NESCAUM) has released a draft Multi-State MHD ZEV Action Plan for a 45- day public comment period. Comments should be submitted through NESCAUM’s Public Input Portal by April 25, 2022.
NEW! WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: EPA Restoration of California Waiver Will Support State Climate Action, Improve Air Quality, and Advance our Electric Vehicle Future
On March 11, EPA reinstated California’s authority under the Clean Air Act to implement its own greenhouse gas emission standards for cars and light trucks, which other states can also adopt and enforce. With this authority restored, EPA will continue partnering with states to advance the next generation of clean vehicle technologies. Click Here For Full Press Relaese.
EPA Proposes Stronger Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles to Promote Clean Air, Protect Communities, and Support Transition to Zero-Emissions Future
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing new, stronger standards to promote clean air and reduce pollution from heavy-duty vehicles and engines starting in model year (MY) 2027. The proposed standards would reduce emissions of smog- and soot-forming nitrogen oxides (NOx) from heavy-duty gasoline and diesel engines and set updated greenhouse gas (GHG) standards for certain commercial vehicle categories. This proposed rule would ensure the heavy-duty vehicles and engines that drive American commerce and connect people across the country are as clean as possible while charting a path to advance zero-emission vehicles in the heavy-duty fleet. Click Here for Full Press Release.
EPA Awards Rebates Totaling $17 Million to Fund Clean School Buses that Reduce Diesel Emissions and Protect Children’s Health
Today, at an event with Vice President Kamala Harris, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the winners of two school bus rebate opportunities: the 2021 American Rescue Plan (ARP) Electric School Bus Rebates, and the 2021 Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) School Bus Rebates. The $7 million in ARP funding is directed toward school districts in underserved communities to replace old diesel buses with new, zero-emission electric models, and the $10 million in DERA rebates will assist with 444 school bus replacements across the country. Click Here for full press release.
U.S. Department of Energy: The Information Source for Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles
The Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) provides information, data, and tools to help fleets and other transportation decision makers find ways to reach their energy and economic goals through the use of alternative and renewable fuels, advanced vehicles, and other fuel-saving measures. Click Here for more information about the resources available.
EPA Past SmartWay Webinars and Events
To address these trends and challenges, EPA developed the SmartWay program.
Launched in 2004, this voluntary public-private program:
- provides a comprehensive and well-recognized system for tracking, documenting and sharing information about fuel use and freight emissions across supply chains
- helps companies identify and select more efficient freight carriers, transport modes, equipment, and operational strategies to improve supply chain sustainability and lower costs from goods movement
- supports global energy security and offsets environmental risk for companies and countries
- reduces freight transportation-related emissions by accelerating the use of advanced fuel-saving technologies
- is supported by major transportation industry associations, environmental groups, state and local governments, international agencies, and the corporate community
View the SmartWay timeline and learn about the program’s achievements and key milestones reached since SmartWay’s launch in 2002. Our progress to making freight in the supply chain more sustainable and efficient is due to the vision, commitment and hard work of SmartWay Partners and Affiliates! Two Decades of Progress: SmartWay Partnership Milestones (PDF)(1 pg, 345 K, June 2021, EPA-420-H-21-001). Click Here to view past webinars and upcoming webinars
Indoor Air Quality
NEW! The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) Released Allergy Capitals 2022™.
This report ranks the top 100 cities in the continental United States where it is most challenging to live with seasonal pollen allergies, which may worsen chronic respiratory diseases, including asthma. AAFA’s report is an annual research and educational project designed to help people recognize, prevent and manage allergy symptoms. It also helps communities see where the needs of people with allergic diseases, like seasonal allergies, can be better met.
Scranton, Pennsylvania, ranks #1 overall again this year. City rankings are based on higher-than-average spring and fall pollen scores, higher-than-average medication usage, and availability of board-certified allergists/immunologists in the area.
Visit AsthmaCommunityNetwork.org to see if your city made the list and see what actions you can take to reduce your contact with pollen.
Available Now: An Introduction to Radon Gas in Homes Webinar Recording
EPA’s Indoor Environments Division recently hosted a webinar to provide an overview of the key basic facts of radon – what it is, what it does to us, how we measure it, how we reduce our exposure, and where to find resources and additional information. A recording of An Introduction to Radon Gas in Homes is now available online. The recorded webinar features a presentation by Bruce Snead, Director of Engineering Extension at Kansas State University and director of the National Radon Program Services effort for EPA since 2009.
EPA: A Fact Sheet for Tribes on State and Tribal Indoor Radon Grants
EPA’s Indoor Environments Division is pleased to announce the State and Tribal Indoor Radon Grants (SIRG) Program Fact Sheet. This fact sheet has information on SIRG eligibility, matching requirements, allowable activities, EPA contacts, and more.
EPA works collaboratively and values our tribal partnership to support healthy indoor air quality (IAQ) in tribal communities. We work together to develop tools and resources that address the health and the safety of tribal members when it comes to indoor air quality.
Please visit the Indoor Air Quality in Tribal Communities or State Indoor Radon Grants (SIRG) Program and Resources pages to learn more and download the fact sheet.
Choose the Right Portable Air Cleaner for the Home
Whether you are in the market for a portable air cleaner for your home or you were thinking about gifting one this holiday season, EPA’s Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home can help you make a well-informed decision.
Tips for selecting and using a portable air cleaner:
- Never buy or use an air cleaner that generates ozone, a lung irritant.
- Choose an air cleaner with a clean air delivery rate (CADR) that is large enough for the size of the room. The higher the CADR the more particles an air cleaner can capture and remove from the air and the larger the room it can be used in.
- Running your air cleaner at a higher speed and for a longer time will help improve the air cleaner’s effectiveness.
- Place your air cleaner in the rooms where you spend more of your time such as your living room or bedroom.
- Replace filters regularly and follow all air cleaner manufacturing maintenance instructions.
Read EPA’s Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home for more details and tips.
U.S. Department of Education Encourages Use of American Rescue Plan Funds to Improve Ventilation and IAQ in Schools
Indoor air quality is critical to reopening schools safely and keeping them open. The U.S. Department of Education has released new guidance encouraging the use of American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds to improve ventilation systems and make other indoor air quality improvements in schools to prevent the spread of COVID- 19 and tackle longstanding school ventilation improvement needs. The new Department of Education guidance highlights EPA resources to support investments in improved ventilation and indoor air quality. Use the following resources from EPA to supplement the information in the guidance:
- Indoor Air and Coronavirus (COVID-19): Visit this page for the latest guidance on best indoor air practices to limit the spread of COVID-19.
- Ventilation and Coronavirus (COVID-19): Ventilation is an important approach to lowering concentrations of indoor air pollutants, including viruses. Increase the ventilation in your school with outdoor air when possible.
- Air Cleaners, HVAC filters, and Coronavirus (COVID-19): Air cleaners and HVAC filters can help to reduce viruses and pollutants in the air. Consider upgrading the HVAC filters in your system and using safe, effective portable air cleaners to supplement HVAC filtration. Note: Do
not use air cleaners that intentionally generate ozone in occupied spaces.
- Implementing a Layered Approach to Address COVID-19 in Public Indoor Spaces: A layered risk reduction approach is best to limit airborne transmission of COVID-19 – learn how to combine increased ventilation and filtration with other CDC recommendations, such as wearing masks and social distancing.
Be sure to subscribe to CodeTalk, HUD’s Office of Native American Programs newsletter, for webinars and opportunities!
RESOURCES AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES: Week of March 21 – 25, 2022
RESOURCES & FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Now Hiring!
Northern Arizona University Native American Water & Land 2022 Student Summer Internship
Spend your summer working on tribal water and land issues. Internships are available with tribal organizations, state and federal agencies, or water or land management NGOs. The internships have a research, technical, educational, or policy focus. We are offering approximately 10 internships. You can apply for all the sites with one application. The internship program provides eachstudent intern with a $4,800 stipend for 8 weeks or a $6,000 stipend for 10 weeks. Travel and housing stipends are available for interns who must relocate for the internship. We anticipate some internships may be virtual, with the intern telecommuting from their home location. Students must meet the following criteria: •
- S. Citizen •
- Full-time undergraduate or graduate college student during Spring 2022 •
- Have at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA •
- Majoring in an environmental, land, or water management field—e.g., environmental science, engineering, hydrology, planning, public policy, geography, law, agriculture •
- Interest in pursuing a career in water or land management after graduation •
- Proficient verbal and written communication skills • Strong interest in working with Native American tribes •
- If you need an exception, contact EEOP- INTERN@nau.edu.
- The host site project descriptions will be posted on the website after April 15 for review. Interns will select which host sites receive their application. Applications are due by April 29, 2022.
- To register for more information: http://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/eeop/Internships/wls_internship
- For questions contact: nelson@nau.edu or text 928 221-1222.
Puget Sound Clean Air Agency: Executive Director
The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) is a special-purpose, regional government agency chartered by state law in 1967. The Agency’s jurisdiction covers King, Kitsap, Pierce, and Snohomish counties. These four counties are home to more than 4.1 million people, over half the state’s population. The Executive Director is responsible for strategic and inspirational leadership as well as overall operational management of the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. The Executive Director serves as a key external face of the Agency, responsible for productive relationships between the Agency and the State Legislature, the State Department of Ecology, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Association of Clean Agencies, and other local air agencies. In addition, the Executive Director ensures that staff members are aligned with the organization’s mission and vision, and are working together to successfully achieve strategic objectives.
To Apply or For More Informaiton About The Position. Click Here.
Red Feather Development Group: Program Coordinator
Red Feather Development Group (Red Feather) partners with the Navajo and Hopi Nations to provide sustainable solutions to the housing needs within their communities. Red Feather programs include healthy home educational outreach, healthy home case management, and the facilitation and management of home repairs for qualified families. Red Feather works closely with government officials, community members, professionals, and volunteers within each community to develop and implement these programs.
To apply Send a cover letter and resume to email: shannon@redfeather.org
A New fund is asking for donations to help Alaska Native communities facing environmental disasters
A new fund is calling for private donations to help Alaska Native communities facing climate change-related disasters. That source of funding will almost certainly not be enough money to fully respond to the environmental disasters that Alaska communities face, but it has at least one advantage over traditional grants. Click Here For More Information.
TAMS Tribal Air Monitoring Technology Specialist
Being Age 55 or Older is Good for The Environment! The Senior Environmental Employment (SEE) Program offers unique opportunities in Scientific, Technical, and Administrative / Office support for individuals aged 55 and over to support the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through a grant administered program through National Older Worker Career Center (NOWCC). This is a unique program where your talents, expertise and experience will truly be valued. The EPA provides a wonderful work atmosphere, and you’ll be working side-by-side with EPA staff that are doing important work every day. Pay & Benefits: Pay rate: $18.01 /hr. Benefits: Paid Health Insurance Premium if working 30+ hours per week, Paid Vacation, Paid Sick Time, Paid Federal Holidays plus one Individual Holiday, and optional Vision and Dental Insurance available. Must be U.S Citizen and age 55 or older to apply. The duties of this position must be performed onsite at the EPA office location in Las Vegas, NV. For Full Description and to Apply Click Here
ETR (Education, Training, and Research) is seeking a Project Coordinator.
The Project Coordinator will report to the Director of Tribal Projects, this position will be responsible for coordinating, developing, and executing the California Clean Air Project (CCAP) scope of work (SOW) components of the project. These include but not limited to, facilitating and training Tribal representatives, coordinating other capacity building assistance and related activities, coordinating and ensuring delivery of day-to-day deliverables, planning and designing specific project deliverables, contributing to ideas to project/department strategic planning and resource development, and assisting in writing reports, proposals, re-applications and progress reports, all with general oversight of supervisor.
For More Information and to Apply for this Position click here
ETR (Education, Training, and Research) is seeking a Project Coordinator II Tribal Community Coordinating Center (TCCC). The Project Coordinator II (TCCC) will report to the Director of Tribal Projects, the Project Coordinator manages the day-to-day operations of one large project or multiple small projects (600K or less). Plans, coordinates, designs, and delivers project activities in the ATOD content area, specifically Tribal Community Coordinating Center (TCCC) Project. Writes reports, supervises staff, assists in resource development, and contributes to business unit strategic planning. California-based position.
For More Information and to Apply for this Position click here
Spark Northwest is seeking a Program Director for their Seattle, Washington Office.
Spark Northwest seeks a dynamic leader who is passionate about clean energy and social justice to join our team. The Program Director oversees the design and delivery of Spark Northwest’s clean energy programs. This position is responsible for all aspects of program administration including charting strategic direction, overseeing the project managers, and evaluating success. The Program Director also manages institutional funding relationships with local governments, utilities and foundations. This position reports to the Executive Director.
How to Apply
Position will remain open until filled, but applications received by Friday February 11th will receive priority consideration. Expected start date is early April. Please submit the following to jobs@sparknorthwest.org with the subject line: “Your Full Name, Program Director”:
- A cover letter explaining how this position aligns with your previous experience and career goals
- A current resume with specific dates of employment (month/year)
- A writing sample reflecting your original work
Spark Northwest is seeking a Part-Time Policy Manager for their Washington & Oregon Offices
Spark Northwest seeks a Policy Manager to serve as our point person on community generated clean energy policy in Oregon and Washington. We are looking for someone who shares our vision of a just transition to clean energy. The Policy Manager cultivates relationships with allies and deploys our policy strategy to advance clean energy that benefits BIPOC and low-wealth communities.
How to Apply
Position will remain open until filled, but applications received by February 12th will receive priority consideration. Expected start date in early April.
Please submit the following to jobs@sparknorthwest.org with the subject line: “Your Full Name, Policy Manager”:
- A cover letter explaining how this position aligns with your previous experience and career goals
- A current resume with specific dates of employment (month/year)
- A writing sample reflecting your original work
The Clean Energy Corps is hiring. We need talented, diverse, kind, and hardworking people like you to join this team.
With the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Clean Energy Corps is charged with investing more than $62 billion to deliver a more equitable clean energy future for the American people by:
- Investing in American manufacturing
- Creating good paying jobs
- Expanding access to energy efficiency and clean energy for families, communities, and businesses
- Delivering reliable, clean, and affordable power to more Americans
- And building the technologies of tomorrow through clean energy research, development, and demonstrations
The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is hiring a Sustainability Specialist and want to reach as wide an audience as possible. You can also get there through this link.
Public Lands Internship Program (PLIP)
The Public Lands Internship Program (PLIP), which is a partnership between Northern Arizona University and various land management agencies, such as the National Park Service (NPS). The Northern Arizona University (NAU) Public Lands Internship Program (PLIP) aims to place 10 or more interns and practicum students from the College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences (CEFNS) as well as other partner colleges at NAU each year.
Current internship opportunities are available at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area; Flagstaff Area, Aztec Ruins, and Montezuma Castle National Monuments; and Grand Canyon National Park. Indigenous and Native American students are strongly encouraged to apply. Visit the PLIP website for more information and please share these internship opportunities with your networks.
You can find a great listing of Indian Country jobs on NCAI’s website here.
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes
NEW! EPA Announces Availability of up to $1.6 Million in Environmental Justice Grants for Tribal Public Participation Project
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the availability of up to $1.6 million in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding to support Tribal government efforts to establish or modify programs on environmental justice water and air quality issues. Earlier this year, EPA announced spending plans for the $100 million in ARP funding appropriated by Congress in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and health outcome disparities, with $50 million being designated to improve ambient air quality monitoring, and $50 million designated to address disproportionate environmental or public health harms and risks in underserved communities. Congress made up to $1.6 million in ARP funding available to Tribes, recognizing the importance of supporting Tribal public engagement programs and related priorities that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. EPA anticipates awarding 16 to 20 grants nationwide in amounts of up to $100,000 per award.
Applicants interested in this funding opportunity must submit grant proposal packages by May 19, 2022. Applicants should plan for projects to begin on October 1, 2022. To learn more about the pre-application assistance calls and how to apply for funding, visit: Environmental Justice Small Grants Program.
For more information about EPA’s programs in Indian Country, visit: Environmental Protection in Indian Country
For more information on EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice, visit: Environmental Justice.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Department of Energy – Bioenergy Technologies Office
The Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) supports groundbreaking technologies to produce fuels, products, and power from biomass and waste resources. BETO is interested in broadening its pool of participants and seeks to fund non-traditional, emerging, and historically underfunded investigators from Minority Serving Institutions. Focus areas of research include Advanced Algal Systems, Advanced Terrestrial waste feedstock technologies, Accelerating catalyst development for biofuel production.
Inclusive Energy Innovation Prize
The Inclusive Energy Innovation Prize is designed to create a more inclusive and equitable innovation ecosystem in climate and renewable energy technologies. We are working to diversify the communities that have access to Department of Energy funding. The primary goal of this prize is to fund organizations to lead engagement efforts with underrepresented communities and support applicants to apply for DOE and other federal funding opportunities. Up to 10 organizations will share a total prize pool of up to $2.5 million.
EPA: P2 Grant Program Funding Availability
EPA has released two P2 Grant Funding Availability Announcements for FY 2022 – FY 2023. Applicants are welcome to apply to one or both announcements.
- EPA-HQ-OPPT-2022-001:EPA anticipates awarding approximately $9.38 million in total federal pollution prevention grant funding over a two-year funding cycle ($4.69 million in FY 2022 funds and $4.69 million in FY 2023 funds). Individual grant awards could be up to $800,000 for the two-year funding period or $400,000 funded per year. Cost share/match requirement is fifty percent. Federally recognized tribes and intertribal consortia that receive a P2 grant award and place the approved workplan into a performance partnership agreement will have their cost share/match requirement reduced from fifty percent to zero.
- For project examples and more information please visit P2 grant program web page.
- Or call your P2 Regional Contact: https://www.epa.gov/p2/p2-regional-contacts
- EPA-I-OCSPP-OPPT-FY2022-001: Through funds provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA anticipates awarding approximately $13.9 million in total federal pollution prevention grant funding to support a two-year P2 grant agreement (FY 2022 and FY 2023). Grants will be fully funded at the initial award with a maximum individual award ceiling of $350,000. There will be NO cost share/match requirements and assistance agreements are ineligible for inclusion into performance partnership grant agreements.
- For project examples and more information please visit P2 grant program web page.
- Or call your P2 Regional Contact: https://www.epa.gov/p2/p2-regional-contacts
Communication Channels for NASA Funding Opportunities
Please consider signing up for the following communication channels. These channels will ensure that you are informed of student engagement and other funding opportunities:
- Register for an account with NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES). You’ll need to create an account if you don’t already have one. Once you have an account you’ll be able to sign up for notifications to be alerted when new funding opportunities are released. There are sometimes opportunities released specifically for Minority Serving Institutions (including TCUs and other indigenous serving higher education institutions) so it’s good to receive the notifications to stay on top of new opportunities.
- Sign up for our MUREP Newsletter which goes out every 2 weeks on Fridays.
- Check our MUREP website for announcements regarding MUREP specific funding opportunities.
EPA recently shared documents from the May 2021 Workshop on Wildfire Smoke and Children’s Health.
The workshop summary recaps expert presentation and topics discussed during the May event. The recommendations were drafted by multi-stakeholder workgroups and contain a collection of evidence-based information for decision making and for developing educational materials. You can find the documents attached and posted on the AirNow website: https://www.airnow.gov/wildfire-guide-post-publication-updates/
At this site you will also see a link to A Story of Health, a multimedia eBook from the Western States Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit that explores how our environments interact with our genes to influence health across the lifespan. The latest chapter, Sofia’s Story, explores the health effects of wildfires. Go directly to Story of Health here: https://wspehsu.ucsf.edu/main-resources/for-clinical-professionals/training/a-story-of-health-a-multi-media-ebook/. For more information, contact EPA’s Martha Berger at Berger.Martha@epa.gov.
Office of Research and Development recently conducted planning discussions regarding the WSMART program. One decision we are activating now is a testing partner loan option during periods of lower wildfire activity (winter through early spring), with loans for up to 3 months. The website FAQs were updated today to outline that option (refer to: “Can I request this equipment to try out before the next wildfire season?”): https://www.epa.gov/air-sensor-toolbox/wildfire-smoke-air-monitoring-response-technology-wsmart-pilot
To view and/or receive ITEP’s American Indian Air Quality Training Program newsletter, Native Voices, click here!
Climate Change/Energy
Join NCAI’s Climate Action email listserv here!
Sign up for the Alliance for Green Heat’s newsletter!
To view and/or receive ITEP’s Climate Change newsletter, click here!
Toxics/Mobile Sources
Recent additions to OTAQ’s website in August 2022
You can access these additions as well as new press releases and Federal Register notices related to OTAQ on our website.
Indoor Air Quality
Resource for Healthy Indoor Air Quality
Check out the website https://forhealth.org/ for many resources related to healthy homes and indoor air quality!
The Tribal Healthy Homes Network (THHN) has a webpage dedicated to Funding Opportunities! Additionally, THHN has developed a Funding Guide for American Indian and Alaska Native Communities.
Most Recent Listing: EPA Rules from the Federal Register can be found here
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