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SEPTEMBER, 2024
IN THIS ISSUE:
A letter from Montgomery County's Climate Change Officer, Sarah Kogel-Smucker
With the arrival of fall, many of us are busy setting up new routines—whether it's gearing up for the school year, adjusting work schedules, or simply changing the rhythm of our daily lives. This September, we ask you to try integrating public transit into these new routines. Opting for public transit can ease your daily commute, reduce stress, and contribute to a healthier environment for our community.
With transportation causing 42% of the County’s carbon pollution, taking public transit is a great way to tackle climate change. In Montgomery County there are a variety of public transit options designed to make your commute smoother and more efficient. From Metro buses and the MARC train to Ride On services, you may find a convenient and eco-friendly option your route. Whether you're heading to work, school, or enjoying a day out, public transit can simplify your journey while benefiting our planet.
To help you get started, check out:
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Montgomery County Ride On: Ride On provides trip planning, routes, schedules, and fare information to make your travel planning easy.
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Metro System Information: WMATA offers details on Metrobus and Metrorail services, including real-time updates and maps.
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MARC Train: MARC Train provides schedules and ticket information for those commuting to and from surrounding areas.
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Google Maps: Google Maps has a public transit option in directions that can help plan your trip.
If you’re a seasoned public transit commuter, congrats! If would be a new part of your routine, we ask that you try it out. As we establish our fall routines, let’s make a commitment to a greener future together.
Warm regards,
 
Local climate news and updates from Montgomery County, the State of Maryland, and around the DMV.
Montgomery County Awarded $2.68 Million Grant for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure at County-Owned Locations
Source: MCDOT Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program
Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich has announced that the County has been awarded a $2.68 million grant from the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. The funding, part of the Federal Highway Administration’s Carbon Reduction Program, will support the installation of EV charging stations at up to 17 county-owned locations, including parking garages, park-and-ride lots, libraries and community centers.
The County will coordinate with MDOT to implement the project and select County sites for EV charging that are strategically located to meet the needs of residents and businesses.
The full list of projects is provided in Item 9A on the agenda for the Metro-Washington Council of Government’s July 17 Transportation Planning Board meeting.
Battery Manufacturing Facility in Beltsville Getting Millions in Government Grants
 Credit: Josh Kurtz - Gov. Wes Moore (D) greets workers at a battery manufacturing facility in Beltsville.
Maryland’s clean-energy future — and maybe the clean-energy future of the U.S. and the entire world — is being developed in a lab in Beltsville, using battery technology that was developed just down the road at the University of Maryland.
On Tuesday afternoon, dozens of dignitaries from federal, state and local governments and from academia came to the lab to celebrate its good fortune — and its promising future.
ION Storage Systems recently won a $20 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to scale up its technology. And Gov. Wes Moore (D) said the state was kicking in another $1 million, while the Maryland Technology Development Corp., the state’s venture capital agency for technology, would provide another $1.5 million.
Moore called the company “a Maryland original,” and added, “We take a great deal of pride in the fact that we can call you ours.”
Read more in Maryland Matters
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Unions, State Officials Hope Long-Awaited Workplace Heat Rules Are in Final Stretch
After nearly four years of discussion, and a week after a Baltimore sanitation worker died of heat-related causes, proposed state regulations to protect workers from heat stress are nearing the final stages. The proposed regulations were published by the Division of Labor and Industry on July 26, starting a 30-day public comment period. A hearing has been scheduled for next Friday, Aug. 16, and barring any major changes, the new rules could be in place by early fall.
Read more in Maryland Matters
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National and international climate change news that affects life in the U.S. and beyond.
How Close Are the Planet’s Climate Tipping Points?
 Credit: The New York Times
For the past two decades, scientists have been raising alarms about great systems in the natural world that warming, caused by carbon emissions, might be pushing toward collapse. These systems are so vast that they can stay somewhat in balance even as temperatures rise. But only to a point.
Once we warm the planet beyond certain levels, this balance might be lost, scientists say. The effects would be sweeping and hard to reverse. Not like the turning of a dial, but the flipping of a switch. One that wouldn’t be easily flipped back.
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Startling Genome Discovery Reveals Impact of Climate Change in Europe
A pioneering new project, known as Psyche, which aims to sequence the genomes of all 11,000 species of butterflies and moths in Europe reveals, in fine detail, how climate change and habitat loss are affecting them. A tenth of all named species on Earth are moths or butterflies and they are uniquely sensitive to changes in habitats, temperature and plants on which they thrive. “That means the more we know about them the better informed we will be about the changes affecting the natural world. The alterations affecting the chalkhill blue are a perfect example of that knowledge.”
Read more in The Guardian
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NOAA Affirms Expectations for Extraordinarily Active Hurricane Season
Expectations for an extraordinarily active 2024 hurricane season remain essentially unchanged, after NOAA released its midseason forecast Thursday.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted 17 to 24 named storms, a slight revision down from its May forecast, which had called for 17 to 25 named storms. That was the most named storms the federal agency had projected since the forecasts began in 1998.
Read more in Inside Climate News
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Highlighting Montgomery County students for their advocacy, projects, and stance on the effects of climate change - in their own words. This month we hear from Anushri Nambiar, a senior at Winston Churchill High School.
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In the summer of 2024, North America has grappled with an unprecedented heat wave, a stark reminder of the intensifying impacts of climate change. The heat wave, which began in late June, shattered numerous temperature records across the continent, with some areas experiencing temperatures exceeding 110°F (43°C). Experts attribute the intensity and duration of this heat wave to a combination of factors, including persistent high-pressure systems (an El Niño cycle) and the ongoing effects of global warming. This extreme weather event is not only raising concerns about human health and safety, but also straining infrastructure, natural resources, and biodiversity in North America. |
For me, it raises the question of if we are currently experiencing the point of no return in terms of climate change.
Major cities such as Phoenix, Mexico City, and Toronto have been hit particularly hard. In Phoenix, the average temperature for July was 107°F (42°C), prompting multiple heat advisories and warnings. The heat is overwhelming power grids, causing frequent outages and increasing the demand for electricity as residents attempt to stay cool. Similarly, in Toronto, the unusual temperatures and humidity has been disrupting daily life, prompting the city to open up 20 cooling centers to provide relief for vulnerable populations.
Unlike people, animals have few places to shelter from the heat. Dehydration is killing endangered species, such as over 157 Howler Monkeys that died by late May in Mexico because of the excessive heat. The heat wave is having severe repercussions for agriculture as well. Crops are drying up because of the sun’s heat and UV rays, leading to concerns about reduced yields and higher food prices. Additionally, the prolonged high temperatures are exacerbating drought conditions in many regions, further stressing water supplies and fueling wildfires.
In my opinion, the events of this summer underscore the urgent need for widespread climate adaptation and harm reduction, as communities across North America face increasingly frequent and severe heat extremes. With the death toll spiking to 328+ individuals, (often from low-income and rural communities) the focus of the continent is shifting from prevention towards resilience and preparation for future climate challenges.
Green Building and Clean Energy Support
The DC Contractor Incubator Cohort 2 for Fall 2024 is an 8-week program aimed at empowering small and minority-owned businesses in the DMV area to excel in the green building and clean energy sectors. The program includes individualized coaching, strategic business support, and access to resources for business growth. Sessions run from September 18 to November 6, 2024, with additional support services provided for up to two years. The application deadline is September 11, 2024.
For more details, visit the event page.
We are excited to share the below news and opportunities below. These important grants are offered by both local and federal funding opportunities, and are made available to local governments, universities, community organizations, businesses and individuals.
Green & Healthy Homes Initiative’s Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program
In collaboration with the EPA, GHHI will award $40 million in grants, flowing from the Inflation Reduction Act, to fund 171 eligible projects in historically disinvested communities throughout EPA’s Region 3 (includes Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and 7 federally recognized tribes). To further ensure equity and transparency, the Project includes a dedicated Advisory Board comprised of 11 organizations which will provide outreach support, applicant engagement, and ensure equitable, transparent project implementation. To ensure subrecipients’ technical assistance needs are met, the Project will also include a dedicated team of technical assistance partners with subject matter expertise congruous to the projects selected to receive TCGM subgrants.
Projected Award Levels:
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60 Phase I subgrants: 1 year up to $150,000 assessment projects
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51 Phase II subgrants: 1-2 years up to $250,000 planning projects
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50 Phase III subgrants: 2 years up to $350,000 project development projects
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10 Noncompetitive subgrants will be for 1 year up to $75,000 for severely capacity constrained communities (selected by Advisory Board)
A grants portal is now open on the GHHI site. For more information, click here.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces $2 Billion to Fund Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grants as Part of Investing in America Agenda
The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a groundbreaking $2 billion investment in environmental and climate justice through the Community Change Grants program. Administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these grants constitute the largest single investment in environmental justice, supporting community-led projects focused on clean energy, climate resilience, and environmental justice challenges. The funds, part of President Biden's Investing in America agenda and facilitated by the Inflation Reduction Act, aim to empower disadvantaged communities historically overlooked and burdened by pollution. The program offers two tracks for submission, totaling approximately $2 billion, with specific Target Investment Areas identified, including support for tribes, territories, and border communities. Rolling applications will be accepted until November 21, 2024, and oral presentations from applicants are encouraged. Additionally, $200 million is allocated for technical assistance to enhance community access to resources for environmental and climate justice activities. EPA will host informational webinars to provide further details and address questions.
For more information, click here.
Lots of exciting opportunities available for job seekers. Check out DEP’s Green Job Portal for additional climate and sustainability jobs, including these highlighted positions:
Climate Finance Campaign Manager (Hybrid): The Climate Reality Project is a nonprofit organization founded by former US Vice President Al Gore. Our mission is to catalyze a global solution to the climate crisis by making. View Job
Senior Analyst, Sustainability: The Carlyle Group is seeking an experienced sustainability professional to support a broad set of sustainability activities at both the enterprise and investment portfolio levels and enable the company’s broader. View Job
Evaluation and Research Data Analysis & Technical Research: This is a hybrid position which requires 8 days/month in our Washington DC office. Existing work authorization is required at the time of application submission. View Job
Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland - Residential Sustainability Program Manager :The Residential Sustainability Program Manager (RSPM) will manage Habitat’s climate resiliency programs for low- income homeowners across Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties. Programs include weatherization, solar, and electrification. View Job
Director, Green Living & Community Engagement - Bethesda Green: Bethesda Green is a visionary and impactful non-profit organization at the forefront of promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. Our mission is to be a catalyst for sustainable living. View Job
Progressive Talent Pipeline Fellow: The Progressive Talent Pipeline identifies exceptional people who have deep commitments to economic, social, racial, and environmental justice who would like to make change by serving as government staffers. View Job
U.S. Policy Fellow Center for Climate and Energy Solutions (C2ES): Our mission is to secure a safe and stable climate by accelerating the transition to a thriving. View Job
Ask an EV Owner (Wednesday, September 4 at 7:30 - 8:30 pm): On the first Wednesday of every month, join EVADC for an online "Ask An EV Owner" event. Are you shopping for an EV or just want to learn more? Do you have questions about your new EV? Then this event is for you! Join this virtual program.
Virtual Listening Session for Phase 1 of the Metropolitan Washington Air Quality Action Plan: Montgomery and Prince George's County - Cluster 2 (Saturday, September 7 from 11:00 am – 12:30 pm): Sessions are organized by county and city clusters, and we encourage you to register for your specific cluster. Your participation is key to ensuring that our plan effectively addresses the air quality challenges and environmental justice concerns in our region. Link to register.
The DC Contractor Incubator Cohort 2 for Fall 2024 (September 18 to November 6): This 8-week program is aimed at empowering small and minority-owned businesses in the DMV area to excel in the green building and clean energy sectors. The program includes individualized coaching, strategic business support, and access to resources for business growth. Sessions run from September 18 to November 6, 2024, with additional support services provided for up to two years. The application deadline is September 11, 2024. For more details, visit the event page.
Climate Diet Launch Party (Thursday, September 19 from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm): Celebrate with Climate Diet, formerly known as Sustainable Earth Eating, at their launch party held at DC Vegan Restaurant. Enjoy an evening with speakers like Jane DeMarines and Chuck Carrol, and support educational programs on sustainability. Tickets are $30.00. For more information, click here.
Tastemakers Trail: Self-Guided Craft Beverage Tour (Sunday, September 22): This event invites participants to explore local craft beverages across Montgomery County. It’s a self-guided tour promoting local environmental sustainability practices among breweries and distilleries.
Virtual Listening Session for Phase 1 of the Metropolitan Washington Air Quality Action Plan: Metro-wide Public Meeting (Saturday, September 28): Your participation is key to ensuring that our plan effectively addresses the air quality challenges and environmental justice concerns in our region. Link to register
Illumination Station (Multiple Dates in September): These information tables offer insights on lowering utility bills, applying for energy assistance, and obtaining energy-saving items. Sessions are hosted at different library branches throughout the county. No registration required. Free admission. For specific dates and locations, click here.
Weed Warrior Events (Multiple Dates in September): Montgomery Parks hosts Weed Warrior events where volunteers can help remove invasive species and contribute to park maintenance. These events are ideal for those interested in hands-on environmental conservation. For more details and to participate, you can visit Montgomery Parks' official website or the specific event links provided in the county's event calendar Montgomery Parks.
Park Cleanups - (Multiple Dates Throughout September): Ongoing park cleanups continue throughout September, organized by Montgomery Parks. These activities help maintain the beauty and health of the local parks and are open to community volunteers. For more details and to participate, you can visit Montgomery Parks' official website or the specific event links provided in the county's event calendar Montgomery Parks.
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