News
New Compendium of Tools and Methods to Estimate Environmental Benefits for Nature-Based Solutions Just Released
This week the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released A Compendium of Tools and Methods to Estimate Environmental Benefits for Nature-Based Solutions. The compendium identifies methods and tools for quantifying the environmental benefits related to water quantity, resiliency, air quality, ambient air temperature reductions and habitat management.
This resource was developed to assist grantees and others to estimate and communicate environmental benefits for planning-level activities. Planning activities may include watershed-based planning, decision making, grant writing and the communication of environmental benefits to other stakeholders. The compendium highlights both restoration and protection nature-based solutions implemented in urban and agricultural settings.
More information may be found on EPA’s Resources for Watershed Planning webpage.
Climate Change Considerations When Prioritizing, Developing and Implementing Total Maximum Daily Loads
EPA has released the document Climate Change Considerations When Prioritizing, Developing, and Implementing Total Maximum Daily Loads. The document identifies a non-exhaustive selection of approaches for incorporating climate change considerations into TMDL processes that can be used individually or in combination, depending on each TMDL’s circumstances. This document does not impose any new requirements and does not constitute a prescriptive checklist.
Water Infrastructure and Capacity Assessment Tool (Water ICAT)
EPA released this week the the Water Infrastructure and Capacity Assessment Tool (Water ICAT), an interactive map that helps users identify drinking water and wastewater utilities that may benefit from water infrastructure technical assistance or capacity development assistance. Water ICAT combines water utility information with compliance, community, and water infrastructure funding data allowing users to efficiently screen for utilities that may benefit from additional federal, state, or local support. An intro to the tool webinar is scheduled for January 14, 2025. Registration can be found here. For more information, visit Water ICAT. Questions regarding the tool and underlying data should be directed to Colleen Neely, OGWDW (neely.colleen@epa.gov) and Rebecca Reilly-Lott, OWM (reillylott.rebecca@epa.gov).
Environmental Integrity Project New Report Documents EPA’s Failure to Regulate Wastewater from Plastics Plants
In a new report, the Environmental Integrity Project (EIP) examines the permits and records of 70 U.S. facilities that make plastics, or the main chemical ingredients in plastics. The report notes that the plastics industry has grown rapidly in recent decades, fueled by cheap natural gas and oil. Though the federal regulations limit some pollutants, many harmful pollutants are released by plastics manufacturers including dioxins, 1,4-dioxane, nitrogen, and phosphorus. The plastics plants in this report are those that make raw or pure plastics, sometimes referred to as resins, pellets, or nurdles, that are eventually turned into plastic products, like plastic bottles. EIP did not include any facilities that only make end-use or consumer products. This report also does not include data from oil refineries that also make plastics and plastics ingredients, or plastics plants that share wastewater treatment plants with refineries. As part of their analysis EIP found:
- EPA failed to revise and update federal wastewater limits for chemical plants and plastics manufacturers despite that pollution control technology has improved in 30 years and could dramatically reduce pollutants.
- 70 petrochemical plants making plastics released nearly 10 million pounds of nitrogen and 1.9 million pounds of phosphorus into the nation’s waterways.
- EPA has yet to set limits for dioxins where 10 plants manufacturing PVC 1,374 grams of dioxins and dioxin-like compounds to waterways in 2022.
- Dozens of plastics manufacturers make tiny plastic pellets/nurdles that regularly wash up in clusters along beaches in the Gulf Coast region and yet no one is tracking their discharge or release.
- 58 of the 70 tracked are violating their permit limits and regularly releasing more pollution than allowed.
- Petrochemical plants are recognized by EPA as potential sources of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS.
The Report recommends that:
- EPA update their ELGs to reflect modern treatment technology and known threats to the environment and public health.
- EPA and states should update WQS and permits to prohibit plastics facilities from discharging plastic pellets and “nurdles” into wastewater and stormwater.
- As part of a permit application, companies should be required to report on their pollutants and as part of the permit regularly monitor for all pollutants.
- EPA and state agencies must increase enforcement of Clean Water Act permit violations, impose stiffer penalties that will discourage future violations.
- Permit applications, permits, fact sheets, monitoring data and all other supporting documentations should be available for public review.
National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution
This week EPA announced the National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution which highlights opportunities to mitigate and reduce the impacts of plastic production and waste and details how government agencies, businesses, non-profits, and communities can take additional action to prevent plastic pollution. This strategy aligns the US commitment to negotiating an international treaty to reduce plastic pollution around the world. Example actions from the strategy include:
- Reducing the production and consumption of single-use plastic products and increasing the U.S. capacity to reuse and refill products, including in the federal government.
- Measuring the environmental and human health impacts throughout the lifecycle of single-use products.
- Enhancing public policies and incentives to decrease plastic pollution, including working with others to create a national extended producer responsibility framework.
In the Save Our Seas Act of 2020, Congress charged EPA with developing a strategy to reduce plastic waste and other post-consumer materials in waterways and oceans. EPA published a draft strategy in April of 2023 and received ~92,000 comments. Today’s updated strategy incorporates that feedback and affirms EPA’s commitment to eliminating the release of plastic waste into the environment by 2040. Information related to other related initiatives can be found here:
- Reducing plastic waste
- Specific EPA data on plastics
- The Circular Economy
- EPA’s Trash Free Waters program
- Bipartisan Infrastructure Law initiatives
Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking – 6PPD
EPA will be seeking information from the public on the potential risks associated with N-(1,3-Dimethylbutyl)-N′-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD) and its transformation product, 6PPD-quinone. With this request, EPA will be soliciting any and all information, along with information about potential alternatives and regulatory options to help inform the Agency’s consideration of potential future regulatory actions under TSCA. 6PPD has been used globally since the 1960s as an antidegradant and antiozonant to prevent automobile tire degradation caused by exposure to ozone, oxygen, and temperature fluctuations. By continuously migrating to the surface of the tire to fill microcracks and react with oxygen and ambient ozone in the environment, 6PPD protects the tire’s rubber polymers from becoming brittle and cracked over time. In doing so, 6PPD increases tire longevity, safety, and performance due to its ability to protect tires from premature degradation. Products that use recycled tire crumbs or pieces such as rubber-modified asphalt will also have some level of 6PPD. Finally, 6PPD is also used as an additive in other rubber goods (e.g., conveyor and transmission belts, hoses, and gaskets), other automotive parts (e.g., engine mounts, grommets, bushings, and seals), polymers, lubricants, dyes, and other house-hold or recycled rubber products. Potentially affected entities may include:
- 325130 Synthetic Dye and Pigment Manufacturing;
- 325199 All Other Basic Organic Chemical Manufacturing ;
- 325212 Synthetic Rubber Manufacturing;
- 325998 All Other Miscellaneous Chemical Product and Preparation Manufacturing;
- 326211 Tire Manufacturing (Except Retreading);
- 326291 Rubber Product Manufacturing for Mechanical Use;
- 336999 All Other Transportation Equipment Manufacturing; and
- 424690 Other Chemical and Allied Products Merchant Wholesalers.
More details on this ANPRM can be found here. The comment period closes 1/21/2025.
EPA Launches New Initiative to Tackle PFAS, Identify Emerging Contaminants in Water
EPA launched a new, no-cost technical assistance effort focused on reducing exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other emerging contaminants in small or disadvantaged communities. This initiative is part of EPA’s Water Technical Assistance (WaterTA) program.
The Tackling Emerging Contaminants initiative will help eligible public drinking-water systems evaluate emerging contaminant issues, conduct initial water quality testing, and identify next steps in 200 small or disadvantaged communities over the next three years. EPA will also share best practices and amplify successes through case studies, fact sheets, webinars, and other resources regarding addressing emerging contaminants, including PFAS. EPA’s free water technical assistance initiatives help communities identify their water challenges, develop plans, build capacity, and develop their application materials to access federal funding. The Tackling Emerging Contaminants initiative builds on EPA’s robust suite of technical assistance programs and includes diagnostic water quality sampling and analysis, source water assessment, preliminary treatment design and evaluations, operational and sampling training, and identifying solutions to address emerging contaminants and PFAS contamination including community engagement and outreach support.
Interim Framework for Advancing Consideration of Cumulative Impacts Public Comment Period
This week, The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a 90-day public comment period on the newly developed document Interim Framework for Advancing Consideration of Cumulative Impacts. The framework document is available here and, in the docket, (Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OLEM–2024–0360). The Framework is intended to provide EPA programs with “a foundation for developing approaches to incorporate analysis and consideration of cumulative impacts into their work, with the goal of achieving results that improve health and quality of life in America’s communities.”
ACWA Members can reach out to Lexy Bailey by January 31st, 2025 with any comments, questions or concerns so we can determine whether it is appropriate for ACWA to submit comments on the proposal.
Association Updates
Notice – No Wrap the Week of November 25th
In observance of the holiday, ACWA will not publish a Weekly Wrap the week of November 25th. Look out for our next edition the week of December 2nd.
2025 Mid-Year Meeting – Registration Now Available!
Dates: March 12 & 13, 2025
Venue: Hilton Alexandria Old Town, Alexandria, VA
Registration is LIVE! Register HERE
The draft agenda and hotel room block for the upcoming 2025 ACWA Mid-Year Meeting are now available. This year’s meeting will take place on March 12 & 13, 2025 in Alexandria, VA. This will be a closed meeting intended for state members and federal guests. The agenda is in development and will be updated as appropriate.
Make your room reservations today! The room block will close on February 18, 2025.
Check back here for more updates.
Save the Date: 2025 State Summit on Water Reuse
Date: March 19, 2025
Venue: JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
Save the Date! The 2025 State Summit on Water Reuse will take place on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at the J.W. Marriott Water Street in Tampa, FL. This free, state regulator-only event is hosted by ACWA, ASDWA, ECOS, ASTHO, GWPC, and U.S. EPA, and will be held once again in conjunction with the WateReuse Association Annual Water Reuse Symposium, which begins March 16.
Please CLICK HERE to indicate your interest in participating in the State Summit by Friday, December 6. Please forward this email to any appropriate staff to complete the interest form. Formal registration and additional details will follow in early 2025.
The primary goal of the State Summit is to provide a place for state regulators to share and learn about a range of water reuse issues, network with state colleagues, and coordinate with representatives from select federal agencies. The Summit will feature perspectives from many states and provide an opportunity for participants to share their thoughts and key questions with colleagues from around the country. Past Summit session topics have included: developments in potable reuse around the nation, non-potable reuse for agriculture, industrial reuse trends and experiences (e.g., data centers, produced water), as well as federal updates on the National Water Reuse Action Plan (WRAP) and Interagency Working Group.
ACWA and ASDWA may be able to assist with reimbursement for costs relating to state travel and lodging for the Summit. However, space and reimbursement funds are limited. Please contact Ward Scott (wscott@acwa-us.org) to request travel reimbursement or for more information. Additionally, State Summit participants are eligible to register for the Annual WRA WateReuse Symposium at a discounted (Presenter) rate.
Meetings and Webinars
CSI NBS Webinar 3: Building Coastal Adaptive Capacity through Nature-based Solutions
Tuesday, November 26, 2024 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM EST
REGISTER HERE
This five-part webinar series features projects funded by the Climate and Societal Interactions (CSI) Division’s Adaptation Sciences (AdSci) and Climate Adaptation Partnerships (CAP) programs focused on the research and application of nature-based solutions (NbS), which are actions to protect, sustainably manage, or restore natural or modified ecosystems to address societal challenges, simultaneously providing benefits for people and the environment.
Advanced ECHO Webinar Series – Clean Water Act
December 3, 2024, 1:30-2:30 pm ET
Register HERE
This webinar will guide users through how to use ECHO to access and analyze data related to the Clean Water Act. We will explore the following tools in ECHO:
- Wastewater/Stormwater/Biosolids Facility
Search - Industrial Stormwater Facility Search
- Water Pollution Loading Tool
- Water Quality Indicators Map
CRWU National Webinar Series
US EPA’s Creating Resilient Water Utilities (CRWU) Initiative is excited to offer a new webinar series sharing climate adaptation stories of drinking water and wastewater utilities.
- Gain insight into addressing climate challenges, building resilience, and incorporating environmental justice efforts.
- Learn how to use CRWU’s tools and information for solutions, climate- and weather-related vulnerabilities, and funding options
Join for any or all of the following sessions:
- December 3, 2024 (1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT)
- December 5, 2024 (1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT)
- December 10, 2024 (1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT)
- December 12, 2024 (1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT)
EPA Trash Free Waters: Escaped Trash Risk Map
December 10, 2024 01:00 PM
REGISTER HERE
Please join EPA’s Trash Free Waters program to learn about this new tool on Tuesday, December 10 from 1:00 – 2:00 PM ET. We will walk through the genesis of the map, how it was developed, how it can be used and how we plan to update it going forward.
The panelists for this webinar will include:
- Romell Nandi, Trash Free Waters National Program Lead, US EPA
- Jenna Jambeck, Georgia Athletic Association Distinguished Professor of Environmental Engineering, University of Georgia
- Kathryn Youngblood, Senior Research Engineer, University of Georgia
- Kara Lavender Law, Research Professor of Oceanography, Sea Education Association
Job Opportunities
Environmental Analyst – Rule Specialist
Location: Augusta, ME
Closing Date: November 24, 2024
To apply, submit cover letter, resume, and a brief writing sample by email to jobs@neiwpcc.org by November 24, 2024. Please reference #25-DHHS-DWP-001 in the email subject line. Accepting applications until the position is filled. A full position description may be viewed at: https://neiwpcc.org/about-us/careers.
Environmental Program Specialist (Office Administrator)
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Closing Date: November 29, 2024
The Interstate Environmental Commission is seeking an Environmental Program Specialist to serve as an Office Administrator, The incumbent will support the Executive Director in office administration, fiscal management, contract and grant management, benefits administration and human resources administration. Duties include data management and administrative support, reviewing and forwarding vendor invoices for approval and payment, preparing invoices, assisting with onboarding new employees, ensuring compliance with contract and award conditions, and assisting with various other tasks as needed.
The ideal candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree with at least 3 years professional experience in an office setting. Proficiency with Excel, Quickbooks Online, exceptional organization skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to multi-task and prioritize required. A bachelor’s degree in business management and experience with grant management, financial reporting, and benefits administration preferred. Knowledge, experience with and interest in aspects of environmental issues, particularly in relation to water quality preferred.
To apply, send a cover letter and resume by November 29th, 2024 to jobs@iec-nynjct.org . Please reference position number 24-007 in the e-mail subject line.
Environmental Analyst (Septic System Replacement Coordinator)
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Closing Date: November 29, 2024
The Interstate Environmental Commission is seeking an Environmental Analyst to provide overall coordination and management of a program that provides critical funding to New York State counties to assist homeowners with replacing inadequate septic systems that impair water quality. Funded by EPA’s Long Island Sound Office (LISO) Bipartisan Infrastructure Law pass-through funds, the program will supplement state and county funding to support additional Innovative Alternative On-Site Individual Wastewater Systems (I/A OWTS) systems in Nassau and Suffolk counties, which discharge into the Long Island Sound watershed.
The incumbent will oversee the maintenance of contracts and contract documents with NYSDEC, Nassau and Suffolk counties, review reimbursement requests from the counties, prepare quarterly invoices to NYSDEC, compile data to support program evaluation and track and prepare reporting requirement documents. The incumbent will also assist with outreach and communication efforts in conjunction with the counties to educate the public about the program, and support other IEC projects, as required.
The ideal candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree with at least 3 years technical or professional experience in an office setting. Proficiency with Excel, Quickbooks Online, exceptional organization skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to multi-task and prioritize required. Experience with grant management, budgeting, and financial reporting preferred. Knowledge, experience with and interest in environmental issues, particularly in relation to septic systems, wastewater treatment and water quality preferred. To apply, send a cover letter and resume by November 29th, 2024 to jobs@iec-nynjct.org . Please reference position number 24-008 in the e-mail subject line.
Environmental Analyst
Location: Grand Isle, VT
Closing Date: December 1, 2024
To apply, submit your cover letter, resume and writing sample by email to jobs@neiwpcc.org. Please reference 25-LCBP-001 in the email subject line. Preference given to applicants who apply by December 1, 2024. Accepting applications until the position is filled. A full position description may be viewed at:
https://neiwpcc.org/about-us/careers.
Executive Director
Location: Washington, D.C.
Closing Date: December 20, 2024
The Association of State Drinking Water Administrators (ASDWA) is dedicated to empowering and equipping states and territories to effectively protect public health with a strong and knowledgeable voice. Our work impacts everyone served by a drinking water system in the U.S. We represent state and territorial agencies that implement the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) by working with the Federal government, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other organizations.
If interested in applying for this position, please send a resume, cover letter, and two writing examples (the first-vision of where ASDWA is as an organization and where it could potentially go and the second-example of past technical/policy analysis, each no longer than 800 words) to ExecutiveDirectorSearch@asdwa.org by Friday, December 20th.
Permit Writer (Environmental Engineer 3) (2 positions)
Location: Spokane, WA
Closing Date: Continuous
For more information and to apply, visit Washington’s Job Opportunities webpage.
General Permit Data Specialist/Permit Administrator (Environmental Specialist 3)
Location: Lacey, WA
Closing Date: Continuous
For more information and to apply, visit Washington’s Job Opportunities webpage.
Senior Program Manager, Environmental Policy
Location: Washington, D.C.
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
NAHB is seeking an experienced candidate for the position of senior program manager, environmental policy. This role is responsible for implementing NAHB’s regulatory policy program concerning environmental issues at the federal, state and local level by providing critical analysis of law and regulation; and providing technical assistance to members and HBAs on environmental regulatory issues. Functions performed by this position include the preparation of regulatory comment letters, compliance assistance materials for NAHB’s membership, and performing related regulatory advocacy work before federal and state environmental agencies.
To apply for this position, please submit this application.
Recreational Water Quality Analyst
Location: Cheyenne, WY
Closing Date: Continuous
For more information and to apply, visit Wyoming State Government Jobs.
Environmental Specialist I/II
Location: Dover, DE
Closing Date: Open until filled
For more information and to apply, visit Kent Conservation District.
Environmental Engineer Manager 1 (Surface Water Discharge Permitting Manager)
Location: Pierre, SD
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
For more information and to apply, click here.
Be sure to check out other opportunities on ACWA’s Job Opportunities page.
