On May 5th, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the initial steps in the development of programs that will invest $4 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act in US port infrastructure while reducing air pollution.
In particular, The Clean Ports Program will invest $3 billion in technologies to reduce harmful air and climate pollutants at U.S. ports and create a zero-emission shipping future. The Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicle Program will invest an additional $1 billion to reduce vehicle emissions and better protect the health of the people living and working near ports, schools, and other truck routes.
We are transforming our nation’s infrastructure for the better, all while protecting the health of underserved communities that are too often overburdened by pollution
… said EPA Administrator Michael S. Reagan
Clean Ports Program
The Clean Ports Program builds on EPA’s existing Ports Initiative and hopes to transform port infrastructure while boosting investments for zero-emission port equipment and technology that reduces climate and air pollutants and improves air quality at ports and surrounding communities.
Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicle Program
The Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicle Program provides funding to offset the costs of replacing heavy-duty commercial vehicles with zero-emission vehicles, deploy infrastructure needed to charge, fuel, and maintain these zero-emission vehicles, and develop and train the necessary workforce.
Together, these programs aim to invest unprecedented resources in solutions that protect people and the planet while supporting the creation of good-paying jobs and economic prosperity in communities across the country.
I thank President Biden and Administrator Regan for their attention to Georgia’s ports and their support for Georgia’s economic development and environmental quality.
… said Senator Ossoff (GA)
Other initiatives
To remind, just last week the The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) announced $20.8 million in grant awards to 27 small shipyards in 20 states through the Small Shipyard Grant Program. Furthermore, TOTE Services and Philly Shipyard organized a keel laying ceremony for the third of five training vessels for America’s state maritime academies.
