By: Magnolia Mornings, Magnolia Tribune
EPA Acting Region 4 Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle recently announced a $7.7 million Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) to the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. The grant is to foster the implementation of projects emphasizing sustainable energy while also bringing about lower energy costs for some Tribal members, especially the elderly.
“I first want to thank the EPA for this award and our Office of Environmental Protection for writing this grant that will now make a positive impact in their program and in homes of some of our Tribal Elders,” said Chief Cyrus Ben. “The grant consists of four main projects which will contribute directly to greenhouse gas reductions through their specific actions.”
With approximately 11,000 Tribal members and 2,300 residential units spread across Choctaw Tribal lands, these projects will directly impact more than 300 homes belonging to Tribal elders and disabled individuals, who face heightened risks during power outages. The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians CPRG Implementation Grant will support four greenhouse gas reduction measures to deliver substantial environmental, economic, and health benefits. Specific efforts will include installing solar heat pumps, upgrading appliances, enhancing biodiesel production, and improving recycling capabilities and efficiency.