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Whenever we use paints or solvents, the
fumes are both familiar and often unpleasant.
What you’re smelling are volatile organic compounds, chemicals widely
used in our homes and commerce. They
have effects on both human health and the environment. Beside the smell, VOCs
are significant air pollutants that help form smog and can harm people who
breathe them.
Because they are so widespread, VOCs
are getting more attention in efforts to improve air quality. They’re mostly not regulated directly, so environmental
agencies like the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) rely on voluntary reduction
efforts. One way that’s proven effective
is to offer grants for alternative products or processes that put fewer VOCs
into the air.
MPCA grants are now open for VOC-reducing projects in a
range of Minnesota-based organizations. Potential
projects include switching to water-based or low-VOC solvents, inks, coatings
or cleaners, or buying alternative process equipment or vehicles. These
projects not only save money but also help protect employee and community health.
More than 20 Minnesota organizations have gotten $660,000
in previous grants to reduce VOCs. These projects reduced about 18 tons of VOCs
annually, equal to more than 72,000 cans of spray paint. Learn about past projects
at www.pca.state.mn.us/voc.
Eligible applicants include:
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Businesses with under 500 employees
(e.g. manufacturers, printers, industrial finishers, automotive, metal
casting, etc.)
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Non-profits
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Trade groups or associations
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Government agencies
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Educational institutions.
The maximum grant award is $24,000 with a 50% required
match. Deadline for grant applications is May 18, 2018 by 4:30 p.m. The most
cost-effective projects will score highest. Special consideration will be given
for innovative projects from targeted applicants in environmental justice and
highly urbanized areas. To review grant materials and the short application
form, visit https://www.pca.state.mn.us/quick-links/clean-air-grants-reduce-vocs.
For application questions, contact eric.david@state.mn.us or
651-757-2218.
Broadcast version
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is
offering grants to help organizations across Minnesota reduce air
pollution. By switching out products
like inks, solvents, coatings, cleaners, or alternative equipment or vehicles,
organizations can cut smog-causing pollutants called VOCs. Applications are due by May 18 at four-thirty
p.m. For more information, contact the
M-P-C-A.
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The mission of the MPCA is to protect and improve the environment and enhance human health.
St. Paul • Brainerd • Detroit Lakes • Duluth • Mankato • Marshall • Rochester
www.pca.state.mn.us • Toll-free and TDD 800-657-3864
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