Thursday, March 28, 2024

EPA announces $520,000 in Border 2020 grants

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded over $520,000 in grants to 14 organizations on Tuesday as part of the Border 2020 initiative, a collaboration with the Mexican government to promote public health and environmental protection.

The grant winners are a range of organizations based in Texas, New Mexico and Mexico, and the projects focus on issues like sustainable housing, solid waste programs, electronic waste, green infrastructure, energy efficient lighting, water quality improvements and educational campaigns, amongst others. The grant funds range from $9,385 to $60,000, and the winners will more than match federal funds, contributing a further $589,000.

“Addressing the environmental issues along the border has long been a priority we share with our colleagues in Mexico,” EPA Regional Administrator Ron Curry said. “These projects will make a difference and demonstrate innovative solutions to improve the lives of our border residents.”

The grants are awarded in partnership with the Border Environment Cooperation Commission (BECC), which is charged with preserving , protecting and improving the border area. The Border 2020 Program promotes conservation and public health along the U.S. and Mexico border, with a special focus on areas with greater need of environmental improvements.