New York Construction Report staff writer
To mark Climate Week, New York State has unveiled a $7 million competitive grant program aimed at establishing community-based environmental education centers throughout New York. The funding is designed to support not-for-profit and tribal organizations focused on constructing new facilities or renovating existing ones in disadvantaged or environmental justice communities.
“New York State’s innovative work to protect the environment and address climate change’s disproportionate impacts on disadvantaged communities includes ensuring the next generation of environmental advocates have access to nature where they live, work, and play,” said Governor Kathy Hochul during the announcement. “These education centers will equip visitors with the knowledge they need to combat climate change and promote local cultural preservation.”
The grant program, funded by the State’s environmental protection fund (EPF), will award grants ranging from $250,000 to $3 million. The funds can be used for a variety of capital expenses, including construction, renovation, and the purchase of technology and equipment for the education centers. Proposed centers can cover a wide range of topics, such as urban ecology, environmental justice challenges, and green technology.
“DEC recognizes that bolstering environmental education is critical to supporting real action to fight climate issues affecting disadvantaged communities statewide,” said Sean Mahar, interim commissioner of the New York State department of environmental conservation.
Potential programming may include:
- Workshops on indoor air pollution and exposure reduction
- Education on environmental justice challenges
- Green jobs training
- Community events and cultural preservation initiatives
- Sustainable development models
- K-12 STEAM programming focused on ecology and sustainability
The deadline for applications is set for January 22, 2025, at 3 p.m. Organizations must be registered and prequalified in the Statewide Financial System to apply.
This grant program is part of New York State’s comprehensive climate strategy, which aims for a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a transition to renewable energy sources. With over $28 billion invested in renewable projects and ambitious goals for a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040, New York is paving the way for a greener, more equitable future.
For more information and to access the application, visit the Statewide Financial System website at sfs.ny.gov.
