Environmental and Climate Justice Block Grants

Federal Agency

Sub-Department

Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights (OEJECR)

Purpose

To invest in community-led projects in disadvantaged communities and community capacity-building centers to address disproportionate environmental and public health harms related to pollution and climate change.

Applicant and/or Project Eligibility Requirements

Eligible activities include 1) community-led air and other pollution monitoring, prevention, and remediation, and investments in low- and zero-emission and resilient technologies and related infrastructure and workforce development; 2) mitigating climate and health risks from urban heat islands, extreme heat, wood heater emissions, and wildfire events; 3) climate resiliency and adaptation; 4) reducing indoor toxics and indoor air pollution; or 5) facilitating engagement of disadvantaged communities in State and Federal advisory groups, workshops, rulemakings, and other public processes.

Decarbonization Considerations

Consider using grants flexibly for community initiatives that track and combat air pollution and urban heat, fund climate resiliency, and invest in access to nature, cleaner energy sources, and an electrified future.

Equity Considerations

Partnerships with community-based nonprofit organizations are key to addressing environmental and climate justice. Under this program, applicants must establish partnerships with community-based nonprofit organizations.

Helpful Tips

N/A

Other Notes

OEJECR is seeking public input on program terminology, J40 considerations, program design, eligible recipients, types of needed assistance, and reporting/oversight. Input should be submitted by April 10, 2023: https://www.regulations.gov/docket/EPA-HQ-OEJECR-2023-0023 $2,800,000,000 is available until September 30, 2026. Additional $200,000,000 is available for technical assistance.