EPA Allocates Final $1 Billion for Superfund Site Cleanups
The latest funding targets 25 new sites and advances cleanup at 85 ongoing projects, fulfilling the $3.5 billion commitment under the 2021 infrastructure law.
- The Environmental Protection Agency announced a $1 billion funding boost to clean up 25 toxic waste sites across 15 states and further 85 ongoing projects.
- This marks the third and final installment of the $3.5 billion allocated for Superfund cleanups under the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
- Nearly 80% of the new cleanup sites are in low-income or minority communities, addressing areas chronically affected by pollution.
- The funding aims to clear a backlog of hazardous sites, including old landfills, mines, and manufacturing facilities, established by the 44-year-old Superfund program.
- The 'polluter pays' tax, reinstated in the 2021 infrastructure law, is set to collect up to $23 billion over the next five years to support these efforts.