University of Missouri-Columbia Receives $112,500 Pollution Prevention Grant

November 23, 7:06 PMKansas City Environmental News ExaminerAlison Reber

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University of Missouri-Columbia Receives $112,500 Grant to Provide Pollution Prevention Technical Assistance

( Kansas City , Kan. , Nov. 23, 2009) - EPA Region 7 has awarded a $112,500 grant to the University of Missouri-Columbia's Environmental Assistance Center for projects aimed at building increased capacity and implementation of environmental stewardship programs that target pollution prevention.

The $112,500 grant is authorized by the Pollution Prevention Act, which allows EPA to provide funding to states, their entities, and tribal governments for technical assistance projects that address source reduction or elimination of pollution by businesses across all environmental media--air, water and land.

MU will provide matching funds totaling $112,770, giving the project a total value of $225,270. The university's Environmental Assistance Center will use the funds to continue efforts to institutionalize curricula that will result in a minor or certificate program within the university system for pollution prevention. MU will also expand its internship program to support Missouri businesses in ways to reduce toxics and conserve water and energy, with a special emphasis on helping public water and wastewater treatment facilities.

Additionally, MU will work with specific industries to increase the tools and support for reducing toxics and conserving water and energy, including a special effort with the Missouri Dental Association and its members to prevent mercury from entering the environment.

MU will also continue to provide pollution prevention promotional outreach, technical support and assistance to Missouri businesses through the Extension Business Development Program.

All told, the project is expected to result in a reduction of 4,500 metric tons of greenhouse gases, a reduction of 200,000 pounds of hazardous wastes or materials, the savings of 1 million gallons of water, and cost savings of $1 million.

Key partners in the project include the Missouri Institute of Science & Technology , Missouri State University, Washington University , Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Associated Industries of Missouri, Missouri Chamber of Commerce, Missouri Water Resources Center , Small Business Technology Development Centers , Missouri Dental Association, and the National Pollution Prevention Roundtable. 

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