Reporting Your Environmental Impact: What, How, and Why

Federal grants such as those provided through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) are pivotal in navigating today's competitive funding environment. These grants prioritize evaluating the environmental consequences of funded initiatives, emphasizing both beneficial and adverse impacts. Understanding and quantifying these impacts can be daunting. Every project affects the environment somehow, so it is important to present a comprehensive and balanced picture. Here's a breakdown of the primary environmental effects to consider while writing your applications, as well as valuable resources to effectively depict your project’s environmental footprint.

Key Environmental Impacts:

Pollution: Consider whether your project will introduce harmful chemicals or greenhouse gases into the ground, water, or air. This includes considering emissions during construction, operation phases, and potential end-of-life scenarios.

Land Use: Assess the impact of your project on land resources. This involves determining if new construction is necessary and understanding the extent of land clearing or alteration. Projects that enhance land efficiency or promote ecological restoration, such as reforestation or habitat preservation efforts, can significantly mitigate adverse environmental effects.

Resource Use: Evaluate if your project relies on high-demand materials (e.g., water in drought-prone areas) or energy from non-renewable sources. Sustainable resource management strategies, such as efficient use of materials and energy, can minimize environmental footprints and enhance project sustainability.

Mitigation Measures: Detail any recycling initiatives, energy-saving strategies, carbon capture technologies, or use of sustainable building practices. These measures not only reduce environmental harm but also enhance project resilience.

Environmental Impact Resources

For tips on maximizing the positive environmental impact of your project, refer to additional resources:

For further insights into the current administration’s sustainability objectives spanning manufacturing, energy, emissions, and beyond, click here.

The Environmental Protection Agency has announced its E3: Economy, Energy, and Environment federal technical assistance framework to support small and medium-sized manufacturers with customized environmental assessments. Check if you and your project qualify for assistance here.

Sustainability in construction is possible and can make your project more competitive. This article offers some ideas on how to get started.

Learn more about Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building certification system in this resource from the U.S. General Services Administration.