By Scout Nelson
Governor Tim Walz, joined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state leaders, announced a $200 million grant aimed at cutting climate pollution in Minnesota's food systems.
The funding, provided through the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program, will support various initiatives to build a climate-smart food system.
“Minnesota has consistently been a leader in climate solutions. From clean energy to sustainable agriculture, our climate goals are ensuring a healthier, safer state. Today, we’re celebrating another significant milestone in this journey,” said Governor Walz. “With the EPA’s help, we are creating a food system that nourishes Minnesotans while reducing waste and climate pollution.”
The Minnesota Climate-Smart Food Systems project aims to reduce waste and climate pollution while nourishing the state.
Key elements include:
- Protecting and restoring 10,000 acres of peatlands in Minnesota, which absorb and store climate pollution.
- Expanding support for farmers through the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification and Soil Health Financial Assistance programs.
- Implementing innovative technologies at food and organic waste processing sites.
- Helping small businesses, supermarkets, schools, hospitals, and food banks invest in climate-friendly refrigerators.
- Replacing gas-powered vehicles and equipment with electric vehicles and clean fuel options.
- Scaling up programs to prevent food waste and keep organic matter out of landfills.
- Coordinating with Tribal governments and disadvantaged communities to improve food security and strengthen food sovereignty.
EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore praised the initiative, saying, “The Biden-Harris administration is delivering unprecedented funding and resources to help Minnesota fight climate change, safeguard public health and grow its economy. EPA congratulates Gov. Walz for his leadership and innovative plans to drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions by decarbonizing the state’s food system across agricultural, industrial and waste sectors, to build a greener, cleaner, healthier future for all Minnesotans.”
Katrina Kessler, commissioner of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, highlighted the transformative impact of the funding, stating, “This investment will reduce greenhouse gases while improving air quality, advancing new technologies, building food security and sovereignty, and directing benefits to low-income residents and communities of color.”
The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe expressed their support, with Commissioner Kelly Applegate noting, “This grant works towards and compliments the efforts being put forth by Governor Walz’s Advisory Council on Climate Change. Together with the State of Minnesota, we can work towards climate solutions that benefit us all and preserve the environment and natural resources for generations to come.”
The grant will be managed by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and will also provide funding to other state entities, including the Minnesota Departments of Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Health, and the Board of Water and Soil Resources.
The project is one of 25 selected in a competitive application process and one of only three in the EPA’s Region 5 to receive funding.
Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska
Categories: Minnesota, Government & Policy