UPCOMING CALLS/EVENTS/NOTICES

Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes

NEW! You can help put the “National” in the National Radon Action Plan.

The new  National Radon Action Plan 2021–25, which was released in January, sets a goal for the nation to find, fix and prevent high indoor radon levels in 8 million buildings by 2025 and prevent at least 3,500 lung cancer deaths per year. The plan revolves around actions that will save lives by fixing existing buildings, constructing new buildings with radon-resistant features, and expand the certified, professional radon workforce. It also spotlights addressing radon as a health equity challenge and prioritizes new strategies to reduce radon risk in underserved communities, particularly low-income populations and communities of color.

The National Radon Action Plan is organized into four priority goal areas, each with some specific strategies and desired outcomes. Implementation of the Plan is overseen by a Leadership Council of fourteen organizations representing the Federal government, states, tribes, industry and non-profits. The diversity of priorities, skills and expertise that each organization brings to the table has greatly enhanced our progress on radon risk reduction since the first version of the Plan was published in 2015. We know that some Tribal air professionals have experiences and lessons learned that can help us reach our shared goals and save lives. We would welcome your participation in one of the four goal area work groups.

Below is a link to a Tribal-specific questionnaire developed by the four goal area work groups to get a better sense of what is occurring or has occurred on Tribal lands as it pertains to radon.  Any input you are willing to share is greatly appreciated and will help guide some of the work being conducted as part of the plan.  Your participation and time in answering the questions is also greatly appreciated.  We kindly ask you to complete the questionnaire by July 13.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NRAP_Tribes

 NEW! Don’t Miss Out! Order Your Burn Wise Education Materials by July 29

Unfortunately, EPA’s mailing service contract for Burn Wise educational materials is ending later this summer. What does this mean for you? If you believe you will need any Burn Wise materials this Fall or Winter, it is imperative to place your order now by clicking here in order to ensure a timely response.  Order ALL the materials you need for upcoming residential wood smoke outreach (e.g., Fall Wood Smoke Awareness Campaign, changeout program, tabling at a community event) by July 29.  We expect to have a new mailing system in place by next Spring.

EPA Webinar: EPA’s Air Sensor Loan Pilot Programs – Successes, New Resources, and Lessons Learned

July 13, 2022, | 3:00 PM ET | Register Here

This talk will briefly highlight the pilot air sensor loan programs that EPA launched through partnerships with local organizations in EPA Regions 5, 9, and 10. Additionally, newly developed resources to support these programs will be highlighted including 5 fully developed hands-on lesson plans that can be used for group or individual instruction for elementary through adult learners. Other educational efforts will also be shared.  The presentation will discuss lessons learned and best practice suggestions for others interested in developing and offering similar air sensor loan programs in the future.

 EPA Clean School Bus Program – 2022 Rebates

Click here to register

EPA is offering $500 million in rebates for electric and low-emission school buses. Register Today for the Webinars Below! Program Now Open!

SUMMER WEBINAR SERIES

• July 13 – Office of the Inspector General: Fraud Prevention
• July 27 – How to Apply with Live Question & Answer Session
• August 10 – U.S. Department of Agriculture: Rural Electric Cooperatives Infrastructure Funding All webinars will be held at 1:00 PM Eastern.
• Submit Your Rebate Application by August 19, 2022 ATTENTION:
• Applying for a Rebate? Be sure to get an Active SAM.gov Account First!

CSB Rebates Application deadline is August 19, 2022. SAM.gov entity registration required.

• Click hereto view the program guidance and a list of eligible/priority applicants.
• Click hereto begin the 2022 Clean School Bus Rebate Application process.
• Click hereto sign-up for the Clean School Bus News listserv and add [email protected] to your email contacts to guarantee you receive regular program updates and our messages don’t go to your spam folder.
• Click hereto access the EPA Clean School Bus website to learn more about the program and the benefits of clean school buses.
• Email [email protected]with any questions or feedback to improve the program.

 The Earth to Sky Interagency Partnership, in collaboration with the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals and Grand Canyon National Park, is excited to announce an upcoming course for interpreters, informal educators, and Tribal professionals on the Colorado Plateau.

September 6 – 9, 2022 | Click Here for Application | Click Here to Learn More

This course is offered by the Earth to Sky Interagency Partnership in collaboration with the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals and Grand Canyon National Park. Together we will provide participants a foundation in climate science and effective climate communication and interpretation; an understanding of the connections between global and local processes; and perspectives on the interdependence of culture and climate on the Colorado Plateau. The course emphasizes a supportive, collegial learning environment. You will:

• Meet with NASA and regional scientists to learn about the latest global and regional climate research and discuss their insights on understanding and responding to changing climate
• Observe, practice, and discuss techniques for successful climate change interpretation and communication
• Hear Native perspectives on climate change and learn about Tribal resilience and adaptation strategies
• Experience first-hand evidence of and responses to local climate change impacts on a field trip
• Meet colleagues from around the region and join a community of interpreters, informal educators, and Tribal professionals committed to communicating regional climate issues and solutions
• Depart with cutting-edge knowledge about climate change, and a plan for bringing the climate story to your visitors in relevant, engaging, inspiring, and hopeful ways
• Learn how you can stay connected with these scientists, fellow climate communicators, and the national Earth to Sky community of practice over the long term. You’re not alone in your efforts!

 EPA’s Community and Tribal Programs Group has a publicly facing Tribal Actions and Events calendar for all to use!

This calendar is also linked under the “Tribal Air and Climate Resources” webpage under the “Policy and Planning” heading available at https://www.epa.gov/tribal-air. The purpose of the calendar is to ensure that our Tribal partners are kept apprised of EPA activities that are relevant to them. If you have any questions about the calendars or any recommendations on how EPA can improve upon the calendars please do not hesitate to reach out to Toni Colon ([email protected]) and/or Loren Fox ([email protected]) with any feedback.

 New Air Knowledge E–Learning Content

The Air Knowledge training team is pleased to announce the availability of new air quality training materials!

These e-learning courses and modules are at the foundational learning level and are available to tribal, state, and local air agencies through our learning management system (LMS) and to the public here. The website was recently enhanced to provide additional self-instructional and instructor-led training materials.

The new materials include:

• A course that explains the key historic events that led to air pollution control legislation and describes progress made with air pollution control since the passage of the Clean Air Act,
• A course that explains the basic components of state and tribal implementation plans,
• A module that generally defines the transport and fate of air pollutants and how transport and fate are influenced by meteorology and topography,
• A module that explains the basic aspects of an air emissions inventory, and
• A module that explains the purposes and types of air emissions inventories, including the inventories that the EPA develops.

More detailed information about the contents of these new materials can be found in the attached document.

To access the courses and modules on the LMS (https://epaapti.csod.com), tribal air agencies and organizations can register, log in, and refer to the “What’s New” section on the home page. All other users (the public, international community, academia, industry, EPA staff, etc.) can access the courses and modules on the Air Knowledge interim website.

 NTAA Upcoming Calls

Contact [email protected] if you have any questions about any call! *Registration instructions* When you register for the GoToWebinar, please remember to include your Tribe, Region, or Organization in parenthesis after your last name. This allows you to see everyone on the call and prevents us from conducting a rollcall, ultimately saving everyone’s time.

 The Institute for Tribal Environmental Professional (ITEP)

Click Here for ITEP’s new Tribal Environmental Management and Planning Online Courses. Sign up for a self-paced course hosted by ITEP’s Waste and Response and Tribal Air Quality programs.  New courses have been added, so check it out!

ITEP’s American Indian Air Quality Training Program (AIAQTP) hosts the Building Performance: Improving IAQ in Cold Climates, Residential Building Science Review, Radon Fundamentals, Quality Assurance Fundamental, Writing a Quality Assurance Project Plan, Emissions Inventory Fundamentals, and Emissions Inventory Advanced.

AIAQTP Schedule and Registration 

Recorded Webinars

Looking for more information check out the Tribal Air Quality Media Space Channel. Recent webinars include an Introduction to Air Quality Programs, Emissions Inventories, Remote Professional Assistance, and Woodstoves in Indian Country. Older classics include a series on Air Quality Planning for Wildland Smoke, Tribal Air Program and Grants, Data Management, and the Clean Air Act.

ITEP’s Tribes and Climate Change Calendar includes conferences, trainings, webinars, and other events related to tribes and climate change.

EPA Tools and Resources Webinar Series

Click here to see all past and upcoming webinars hosted by the EPA.

Climate Change / Energy

New! Keynote Speaker: Dr. Jonathan Reichental

August 18th, 2022, | Register Here

Dr. Jonathan Reichental is a multiple-award-winning technology and business leader whose career has spanned both the private and public sectors. He’s been a senior software engineering manager, a director of technology innovation, and has served as chief information officer at both O’Reilly Media and the City of Palo Alto, California. Reichental is currently the founder of advisory, investment, and education firm, Human Future, and also creates online education for LinkedIn Learning. He has written three books on the future of cities: Smart Cities for Dummies, Exploring Smart Cities Activity Book for Kids, and Exploring Cities Bedtime Rhymes.

Cosponsored by the EPA and ICMA, Brownfields 2022 will be taking place: August 16-19, 2022 in Oklahoma City, OK

Clean Energy Group Webinar: Scaling Up Solar – The Montgomery County Green Bank and Sunnova’s Low-and Moderate-Income Solar Pilot Program

July 7, 2022, | 3:00 pm ­– 4:00 pm EDT | Register Here

Earlier this year, the Montgomery County Green Bank launched a new $600K low- and moderate-income (LMI) solar pilot program to test a different approach to solar access in LMI communities. The pilot includes a dual track (ownership and third party-owned) and an innovative third party owned pricing structure with solar company Sunnova.

During this webinar hosted by the Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA), Tom Deyo, Chief Executive Officer of the Montgomery County Green Bank (MCGB) and Stephen Morel, its Chief Investment Officer will present the structure and the initial results of the pilot. Bert Hunter, Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer of the Connecticut Green Bank, and Secretary of the Board of Directors of MCGB will moderate a Q&A to help viewers better grasp differences and similarities with the CT Solar for All program that is the focus of CESA’s Scaling Up Solar for Under-Resourced Communities Project. CESA Project Director Vero Bourg-Meyer will host.

 U.S Department of Energy Better Building Webinar: Financing Solutions that Drive Energy Efficiency in the Water Nexus

July 12, 2022, | 11:00 am ET | Register Here

The efficient use of water results in lower operating costs, a more reliable water supply, and improved water quality. Join to learn how market leaders in the hospitality sector finance and deploy projects that tackle energy efficiency and the water conservation nexus.

 EPA Webinar: Building Performance Standards Development and Implementation

July 12, 2022, | 1:00 PM ET | Register Here

EPA and the Department of Energy (DOE) are hosting a collaborative webinar series designed to support state and local agencies interested in learning more about designing and implementing building performance standards. This webinar will introduce the teams at EPA and DOE, discuss relevant subnational goals and processes, and dig a little deeper into available resources and technical assistance.

 U.S. Department of Energy Office of Indian Energy Webinars: Organizing for the Transition to a Cleaner and More Sustainable Energy Future

July 13, 2022, | 1:00 PM ET | Register Here

Hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Indian Energy, the 2022 Tribal Energy Webinar Series will focus on how tribes can position themselves to participate in the energy transition to the benefit of their communities and future generations.

The realities of climate change and the goals of the Biden Administration provide significant support for tribes who choose to lead the transition to a more sustainable energy future. The opportunities are growing and accelerating; how can tribes position themselves to take advantage of and benefit from those opportunities? This webinar will provide some ideas.

 U.S. Department of Energy Office of Indian Energy Webinars: Energy Access and Reliability on Tribal Lands Virtual Listening Session

July 28, 2022, | 1:00 PM ET | Register Here

This virtual listening session, hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Indian Energy, will explore challenges and potential solutions related to energy access and reliability on tribal lands. The goal is to gather important insight directly from Native Nations regarding the current status of unelectrified homes and electricity reliability issues facing tribal communities.

The Energy Act of 2020 included specific requirements for DOE to conduct research and report back to Congress on these topics. In accordance with that Act, the Office of Indian Energy is hosting this listening session to provide tribal leaders and staff from energy, planning, natural resources, and other relevant departments the opportunity to make recommendations on the report.

This is a follow-up to the first listening session the Office of Indian Energy hosted in November 2021; however, attendance at the first session is not a prerequisite to participate in this one. During this listening session, the Office of Indian Energy will discuss the results of the questionnaire conducted during the first session and share findings from the report to date.

Please note that there is a capacity limit for this listening session of 500 participants. Tribes and tribal staff will be given priority to attend if the capacity limit is reached.

 EPA has updated the Tribal Greenhouse Gas Inventory Tool

EPA’s free, spreadsheet-based Tribal Greenhouse Gas Inventory Tool, first launched in 2013 and updated annually, is based on nationally and internationally recognized GHG accounting and reporting principles.

         This year’s updates include:

• An optional market-based method to calculate Scope 2 emissions from electricity purchased through contractual instruments, such as Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs).
• Revised Emissions & Generation Resource Integrated Database (eGRID) factors from 1990 through 2019, as available.
• Updated default stationary energy emission factors and heat contents.
• Kerosene and distillate fuel oil as additional stationary energy fuel types.

Find the updated Tribal community and government operations modules and users’ guides here. Are you a long-time inventory tool user with questions about the new updates? Or is this your first GHG inventory? Join this webinar or upcoming offices hours to learn more and ask questions:

 ITEP’s Climate Change Adaptation Training Courses registration is online!

Learn more about the courses and register here.

Toxics/Mobile Sources

 EPA Proposes Stronger Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles to Promote Clean Air, Protect Communities, and Support Transition to Zero-Emissions Future

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing new, stronger standards to promote clean air and reduce pollution from heavy-duty vehicles and engines starting in model year (MY) 2027. The proposed standards would reduce emissions of smog- and soot-forming nitrogen oxides (NOx) from heavy-duty gasoline and diesel engines and set updated greenhouse gas (GHG) standards for certain commercial vehicle categories.  This proposed rule would ensure the heavy-duty vehicles and engines that drive American commerce and connect people across the country are as clean as possible while charting a path to advance zero-emission vehicles in the heavy-duty fleet. Click Here for Full Press Release.

U.S. Department of Energy: The Information Source for Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles

The Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) provides information, data, and tools to help fleets and other transportation decision makers find ways to reach their energy and economic goals through the use of alternative and renewable fuels, advanced vehicles, and other fuel-saving measures. Click Here for more information about the resources available.

 EPA Past SmartWay Webinars and Events

To address these trends and challenges, EPA developed the SmartWay program.

Launched in 2004, this voluntary public-private program:

• provides a comprehensive and well-recognized system for tracking, documenting and sharing information about fuel use and freight emissions across supply chains
• helps companies identify and select more efficient freight carriers, transport modes, equipment, and operational strategies to improve supply chain sustainability and lower costs from goods movement
• supports global energy security and offsets environmental risk for companies and countries
• reduces freight transportation-related emissions by accelerating the use of advanced fuel-saving technologies
• is supported by major transportation industry associations, environmental groups, state and local governments, international agencies, and the corporate community

View the SmartWay timeline and learn about the program’s achievements and key milestones reached since SmartWay’s launch in 2002. Our progress to making freight in the supply chain more sustainable and efficient is due to the vision, commitment and hard work of SmartWay Partners and Affiliates! Two Decades of Progress: SmartWay Partnership Milestones (PDF)(1 pg, 345 K, June 2021, EPA-420-H-21-001). Click Here to view past webinars and upcoming webinars

Indoor Air Quality

 NEW! National Radon Training Event in Seattle, Washington

October 24 – 26, 2022, | Register Here

The Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors invites you to join us for our National Radon Training Event in Seattle, Washington October 24 – 26, 2022. It’s an exciting time as we get to meet again in person!

 The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) Released Allergy Capitals 2022.

This report ranks the top 100 cities in the continental United States where it is most challenging to live with seasonal pollen allergies, which may worsen chronic respiratory diseases, including asthma. AAFA’s report is an annual research and educational project designed to help people recognize, prevent and manage allergy symptoms. It also helps communities see where the needs of people with allergic diseases, like seasonal allergies, can be better met.

Scranton, Pennsylvania, ranks #1 overall again this year. City rankings are based on higher-than-average spring and fall pollen scores, higher-than-average medication usage, and availability of board-certified allergists/immunologists in the area. Visit AsthmaCommunityNetwork.org to see if your city made the list and see what actions you can take to reduce your contact with pollen.

 Available Now: An Introduction to Radon Gas in Homes Webinar Recording

EPA’s Indoor Environments Division recently hosted a webinar to provide an overview of the key basic facts of radon – what it is, what it does to us, how we measure it, how we reduce our exposure, and where to find resources and additional information. A recording of An Introduction to Radon Gas in Homes is now available online. The recorded webinar features a presentation by Bruce Snead, Director of Engineering Extension at Kansas State University and director of the National Radon Program Services effort for EPA since 2009.

 EPA: A Fact Sheet for Tribes on State and Tribal Indoor Radon Grants

EPA’s Indoor Environments Division is pleased to announce the State and Tribal Indoor Radon Grants (SIRG) Program Fact Sheet. This fact sheet has information on SIRG eligibility, matching requirements, allowable activities, EPA contacts, and more. EPA works collaboratively and values our tribal partnership to support healthy indoor air quality (IAQ) in tribal communities. We work together to develop tools and resources that address the health and the safety of tribal members when it comes to indoor air quality.

Please visit the Indoor Air Quality in Tribal Communities or State Indoor Radon Grants (SIRG) Program and Resources pages to learn more and download the fact sheet.

 Be sure to subscribe to CodeTalk, HUD’s Office of Native American Programs newsletter, for webinars and opportunities!

UPCOMING CALLS/EVENTS/NOTICES

Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes

 NEW! EPA Webinar: EPA’s Air Sensor Loan Pilot Programs – Successes, New Resources, and Lessons Learned

July 13, 2022, | 3:00 PM ET | Register Here

This talk will briefly highlight the pilot air sensor loan programs that EPA launched through partnerships with local organizations in EPA Regions 5, 9, and 10. Additionally, newly developed resources to support these programs will be highlighted including 5 fully developed hands-on lesson plans that can be used for group or individual instruction for elementary through adult learners. Other educational efforts will also be shared.  The presentation will discuss lessons learned and best practice suggestions for others interested in developing and offering similar air sensor loan programs in the future.

EPA Clean School Bus Program – 2022 Rebates

Click here to register

EPA is offering $500 million in rebates for electric and low-emission school buses. Register Today for the Webinars Below! Program Now Open!

SUMMER WEBINAR SERIES

• July 13 – Office of the Inspector General: Fraud Prevention
• July 27 – How to Apply with Live Question & Answer Session
• August 10 – U.S. Department of Agriculture: Rural Electric Cooperatives Infrastructure Funding All webinars will be held at 1:00 PM Eastern.
• Submit Your Rebate Application by August 19, 2022 ATTENTION:
• Applying for a Rebate? Be sure to get an Active SAM.gov Account First!

CSB Rebates Application deadline is August 19, 2022. SAM.gov entity registration required.

• Click hereto view the program guidance and a list of eligible/priority applicants.
• Click hereto begin the 2022 Clean School Bus Rebate Application process.
• Click hereto sign-up for the Clean School Bus News listserv and add [email protected] to your email contacts to guarantee you receive regular program updates and our messages don’t go to your spam folder.
• Click hereto access the EPA Clean School Bus website to learn more about the program and the benefits of clean school buses.
• Email [email protected]with any questions or feedback to improve the program.

The Earth to Sky Interagency Partnership, in collaboration with the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals and Grand Canyon National Park, is excited to announce an upcoming course for interpreters, informal educators, and Tribal professionals on the Colorado Plateau.

September 6 – 9, 2022 | Click Here for Application | Click Here to Learn More

This course is offered by the Earth to Sky Interagency Partnership in collaboration with the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals and Grand Canyon National Park. Together we will provide participants a foundation in climate science and effective climate communication and interpretation; an understanding of the connections between global and local processes; and perspectives on the interdependence of culture and climate on the Colorado Plateau. The course emphasizes a supportive, collegial learning environment. You will:

• Meet with NASA and regional scientists to learn about the latest global and regional climate research and discuss their insights on understanding and responding to changing climate
• Observe, practice, and discuss techniques for successful climate change interpretation and communication
• Hear Native perspectives on climate change and learn about Tribal resilience and adaptation strategies
• Experience first-hand evidence of and responses to local climate change impacts on a field trip
• Meet colleagues from around the region and join a community of interpreters, informal educators, and Tribal professionals committed to communicating regional climate issues and solutions
• Depart with cutting-edge knowledge about climate change, and a plan for bringing the climate story to your visitors in relevant, engaging, inspiring, and hopeful ways
• Learn how you can stay connected with these scientists, fellow climate communicators, and the national Earth to Sky community of practice over the long term. You’re not alone in your efforts!

 EPA’s Community and Tribal Programs Group has a publicly facing Tribal Actions and Events calendar for all to use!

This calendar is also linked under the “Tribal Air and Climate Resources” webpage under the “Policy and Planning” heading available at https://www.epa.gov/tribal-air. The purpose of the calendar is to ensure that our Tribal partners are kept apprised of EPA activities that are relevant to them. If you have any questions about the calendars or any recommendations on how EPA can improve upon the calendars please do not hesitate to reach out to Toni Colon ([email protected]) and/or Loren Fox ([email protected]) with any feedback.

 New Air Knowledge E–Learning Content

The Air Knowledge training team is pleased to announce the availability of new air quality training materials!

These e-learning courses and modules are at the foundational learning level and are available to tribal, state, and local air agencies through our learning management system (LMS) and to the public here. The website was recently enhanced to provide additional self-instructional and instructor-led training materials.

The new materials include:

• A course that explains the key historic events that led to air pollution control legislation and describes progress made with air pollution control since the passage of the Clean Air Act,
• A course that explains the basic components of state and tribal implementation plans,
• A module that generally defines the transport and fate of air pollutants and how transport and fate are influenced by meteorology and topography,
• A module that explains the basic aspects of an air emissions inventory, and
• A module that explains the purposes and types of air emissions inventories, including the inventories that the EPA develops.

More detailed information about the contents of these new materials can be found in the attached document.

To access the courses and modules on the LMS (https://epaapti.csod.com), tribal air agencies and organizations can register, log in, and refer to the “What’s New” section on the home page. All other users (the public, international community, academia, industry, EPA staff, etc.) can access the courses and modules on the Air Knowledge interim website.

 NTAA Upcoming Calls

Contact [email protected] if you have any questions about any call! *Registration instructions* When you register for the GoToWebinar, please remember to include your Tribe, Region, or Organization in parenthesis after your last name. This allows you to see everyone on the call and prevents us from conducting a rollcall, ultimately saving everyone’s time.

The Institute for Tribal Environmental Professional (ITEP)

Click Here for ITEP’s new Tribal Environmental Management and Planning Online Courses. Sign up for a self-paced course hosted by ITEP’s Waste and Response and Tribal Air Quality programs.  New courses have been added, so check it out!

ITEP’s American Indian Air Quality Training Program (AIAQTP) hosts the Building Performance: Improving IAQ in Cold Climates, Residential Building Science Review, Radon Fundamentals, Quality Assurance Fundamental, Writing a Quality Assurance Project Plan, Emissions Inventory Fundamentals, and Emissions Inventory Advanced.

AIAQTP Schedule and Registration 

Recorded Webinars

Looking for more information check out the Tribal Air Quality Media Space Channel. Recent webinars include an Introduction to Air Quality Programs, Emissions Inventories, Remote Professional Assistance, and Woodstoves in Indian Country. Older classics include a series on Air Quality Planning for Wildland Smoke, Tribal Air Program and Grants, Data Management, and the Clean Air Act.

ITEP’s Tribes and Climate Change Calendar includes conferences, trainings, webinars, and other events related to tribes and climate change.

EPA Tools and Resources Webinar Series

Click here to see all past and upcoming webinars hosted by the EPA.

Climate Change / Energy

 NEW! Clean Energy Group Webinar: Scaling Up Solar – The Montgomery County Green Bank and Sunnova’s Low-and Moderate-Income Solar Pilot Program

July 7, 2022, | 3:00 pm ­– 4:00 pm EDT | Register Here

Earlier this year, the Montgomery County Green Bank launched a new $600K low- and moderate-income (LMI) solar pilot program to test a different approach to solar access in LMI communities. The pilot includes a dual track (ownership and third party-owned) and an innovative third party owned pricing structure with solar company Sunnova.

During this webinar hosted by the Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA), Tom Deyo, Chief Executive Officer of the Montgomery County Green Bank (MCGB) and Stephen Morel, its Chief Investment Officer will present the structure and the initial results of the pilot. Bert Hunter, Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer of the Connecticut Green Bank, and Secretary of the Board of Directors of MCGB will moderate a Q&A to help viewers better grasp differences and similarities with the CT Solar for All program that is the focus of CESA’s Scaling Up Solar for Under-Resourced Communities Project. CESA Project Director Vero Bourg-Meyer will host.

 NEW! U.S Department of Energy Better Building Webinar: Financing Solutions that Drive Energy Efficiency in the Water Nexus

July 12, 2022, | 11:00 am ET | Register Here

The efficient use of water results in lower operating costs, a more reliable water supply, and improved water quality. Join to learn how market leaders in the hospitality sector finance and deploy projects that tackle energy efficiency and the water conservation nexus.

 NEW! EPA Webinar: Building Performance Standards Development and Implementation

July 12, 2022, | 1:00 PM ET | Register Here

EPA and the Department of Energy (DOE) are hosting a collaborative webinar series designed to support state and local agencies interested in learning more about designing and implementing building performance standards. This webinar will introduce the teams at EPA and DOE, discuss relevant subnational goals and processes, and dig a little deeper into available resources and technical assistance.

 NEW! U.S. Department of Energy Office of Indian Energy Webinars: Organizing for the Transition to a Cleaner and More Sustainable Energy Future

July 13, 2022, | 1:00 PM ET | Register Here

Hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Indian Energy, the 2022 Tribal Energy Webinar Series will focus on how tribes can position themselves to participate in the energy transition to the benefit of their communities and future generations.

The realities of climate change and the goals of the Biden Administration provide significant support for tribes who choose to lead the transition to a more sustainable energy future. The opportunities are growing and accelerating; how can tribes position themselves to take advantage of and benefit from those opportunities? This webinar will provide some ideas.

 NEW! U.S. Department of Energy Office of Indian Energy Webinars: Energy Access and Reliability on Tribal Lands Virtual Listening Session

July 28, 2022, | 1:00 PM ET | Register Here

This virtual listening session, hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Indian Energy, will explore challenges and potential solutions related to energy access and reliability on tribal lands. The goal is to gather important insight directly from Native Nations regarding the current status of unelectrified homes and electricity reliability issues facing tribal communities.

The Energy Act of 2020 included specific requirements for DOE to conduct research and report back to Congress on these topics. In accordance with that Act, the Office of Indian Energy is hosting this listening session to provide tribal leaders and staff from energy, planning, natural resources, and other relevant departments the opportunity to make recommendations on the report.

This is a follow-up to the first listening session the Office of Indian Energy hosted in November 2021; however, attendance at the first session is not a prerequisite to participate in this one. During this listening session, the Office of Indian Energy will discuss the results of the questionnaire conducted during the first session and share findings from the report to date.

Please note that there is a capacity limit for this listening session of 500 participants. Tribes and tribal staff will be given priority to attend if the capacity limit is reached.

 EPA has updated the Tribal Greenhouse Gas Inventory Tool

EPA’s free, spreadsheet-based Tribal Greenhouse Gas Inventory Tool, first launched in 2013 and updated annually, is based on nationally and internationally recognized GHG accounting and reporting principles.

         This year’s updates include:

• An optional market-based method to calculate Scope 2 emissions from electricity purchased through contractual instruments, such as Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs).
• Revised Emissions & Generation Resource Integrated Database (eGRID) factors from 1990 through 2019, as available.
• Updated default stationary energy emission factors and heat contents.
• Kerosene and distillate fuel oil as additional stationary energy fuel types.

Find the updated Tribal community and government operations modules and users’ guides here. Are you a long-time inventory tool user with questions about the new updates? Or is this your first GHG inventory? Join this webinar or upcoming offices hours to learn more and ask questions:

 ITEP’s Climate Change Adaptation Training Courses registration is online!

Learn more about the courses and register here.

Toxics/Mobile Sources

 EPA is seeking nominations from representatives of nonfederal interests to serve on the Mobile Sources Technical Review Subcommittee (MSTRS).

EPA values and welcomes opportunities to increase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility on its Federal Advisory Committees. In an effort to obtain nominations of diverse candidates, EPA encourages nominations of people from all racial and ethnic groups. MSTRS members are appointed by the EPA Administrator for three-year terms with the possibility of reappointment to a second term.

The MSTRS, a federal advisory committee chartered under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, provides the Clean Air Act Advisory Committee with independent advice, counsel, and recommendations on the scientific and technical aspects of programs related to mobile source air pollution and its control. The subcommittee’s website is at https://www.epa.gov/caaac/mobile-sources-technical-review-subcommittee-mstrs-caaac.

For more information on how to submit a nomination, please see the Federal Register Notice announcing the request for nominations. Nominations must be received by July 11, 2022. If you have any questions, please contact: Julia Burch, Designated Federal Officer; email: [email protected].

 EPA Proposes Stronger Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles to Promote Clean Air, Protect Communities, and Support Transition to Zero-Emissions Future

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing new, stronger standards to promote clean air and reduce pollution from heavy-duty vehicles and engines starting in model year (MY) 2027. The proposed standards would reduce emissions of smog- and soot-forming nitrogen oxides (NOx) from heavy-duty gasoline and diesel engines and set updated greenhouse gas (GHG) standards for certain commercial vehicle categories.  This proposed rule would ensure the heavy-duty vehicles and engines that drive American commerce and connect people across the country are as clean as possible while charting a path to advance zero-emission vehicles in the heavy-duty fleet. Click Here for Full Press Release.

U.S. Department of Energy: The Information Source for Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles

The Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) provides information, data, and tools to help fleets and other transportation decision makers find ways to reach their energy and economic goals through the use of alternative and renewable fuels, advanced vehicles, and other fuel-saving measures. Click Here for more information about the resources available.

 EPA Past SmartWay Webinars and Events

To address these trends and challenges, EPA developed the SmartWay program.

Launched in 2004, this voluntary public-private program:

• provides a comprehensive and well-recognized system for tracking, documenting and sharing information about fuel use and freight emissions across supply chains
• helps companies identify and select more efficient freight carriers, transport modes, equipment, and operational strategies to improve supply chain sustainability and lower costs from goods movement
• supports global energy security and offsets environmental risk for companies and countries
• reduces freight transportation-related emissions by accelerating the use of advanced fuel-saving technologies
• is supported by major transportation industry associations, environmental groups, state and local governments, international agencies, and the corporate community

View the SmartWay timeline and learn about the program’s achievements and key milestones reached since SmartWay’s launch in 2002. Our progress to making freight in the supply chain more sustainable and efficient is due to the vision, commitment and hard work of SmartWay Partners and Affiliates! Two Decades of Progress: SmartWay Partnership Milestones (PDF)(1 pg, 345 K, June 2021, EPA-420-H-21-001). Click Here to view past webinars and upcoming webinars

Indoor Air Quality

NEW! EPA Webinar: Why Indoor Chemistry Matters: Findings from a National Academies Consensus Study

July 7, 2022 | 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET | Register Here

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) recently released the consensus study report, Why Indoor Chemistry Matters, sponsored by EPA, the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, CDC, and NIEHS. This webinar will present the main conclusions and recommendations of the report, which identifies gaps in the current understanding of indoor chemistry and new approaches that can be applied to measure, manage, and limit chemical exposures. Dr. David Dorman, who served as Chair of the study committee, will summarize high-level main messages from the report, followed by a deeper dive into the report’s findings related to the management and removal of contaminants indoors. The published consensus study report is available to download for free from the National Academies Press website.

 NEW! National Radon Training Event in Seattle, Washington

October 24 – 26, 2022, | Register Here

The Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors invites you to join us for our National Radon Training Event in Seattle, Washington October 24 – 26, 2022. It’s an exciting time as we get to meet again in person!  

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) Released Allergy Capitals 2022.

This report ranks the top 100 cities in the continental United States where it is most challenging to live with seasonal pollen allergies, which may worsen chronic respiratory diseases, including asthma. AAFA’s report is an annual research and educational project designed to help people recognize, prevent and manage allergy symptoms. It also helps communities see where the needs of people with allergic diseases, like seasonal allergies, can be better met.

Scranton, Pennsylvania, ranks #1 overall again this year. City rankings are based on higher-than-average spring and fall pollen scores, higher-than-average medication usage, and availability of board-certified allergists/immunologists in the area. Visit AsthmaCommunityNetwork.org to see if your city made the list and see what actions you can take to reduce your contact with pollen.

 Available Now: An Introduction to Radon Gas in Homes Webinar Recording

EPA’s Indoor Environments Division recently hosted a webinar to provide an overview of the key basic facts of radon – what it is, what it does to us, how we measure it, how we reduce our exposure, and where to find resources and additional information. A recording of An Introduction to Radon Gas in Homes is now available online. The recorded webinar features a presentation by Bruce Snead, Director of Engineering Extension at Kansas State University and director of the National Radon Program Services effort for EPA since 2009.

 EPA: A Fact Sheet for Tribes on State and Tribal Indoor Radon Grants

EPA’s Indoor Environments Division is pleased to announce the State and Tribal Indoor Radon Grants (SIRG) Program Fact Sheet. This fact sheet has information on SIRG eligibility, matching requirements, allowable activities, EPA contacts, and more. EPA works collaboratively and values our tribal partnership to support healthy indoor air quality (IAQ) in tribal communities. We work together to develop tools and resources that address the health and the safety of tribal members when it comes to indoor air quality.

Please visit the Indoor Air Quality in Tribal Communities or State Indoor Radon Grants (SIRG) Program and Resources pages to learn more and download the fact sheet.

 Be sure to subscribe to CodeTalk, HUD’s Office of Native American Programs newsletter, for webinars and opportunities!