North Carolina’s Bold Environmental Efforts Shine Despite Federal Rollbacks

When a tornado hit the north side of Minneapolis, Michelle Neal rushed for safety at a fast-food joint. She described it as “unreal,” saying, “We could have died.” A place like McDonald’s became her refuge during that terrifying moment.

Julia Nerbonne, who leads Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light, wants to enhance community safety amid worsening climate change. She envisions churches and similar venues as emergency shelters equipped with solar power and battery storage. This initiative aims to help marginalized neighborhoods like north Minneapolis, which face ongoing pollution and lack of resources.

“We aim to create a space where the community can cool down during heatwaves and keep their medications safe during power outages,” Nerbonne explained.

Across the U.S., many nonprofits, keen to launch similar projects, are looking for support from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which has set aside $3 billion for environmental justice grants until September 2026. However, only about half of this has been awarded so far, and experts worry the remaining funds may be at risk if a new administration shifts priorities.

One significant initiative at risk is the EPA’s Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program, which allocated $600 million for projects in communities facing environmental challenges. This funding is seen as a crucial step toward fixing deep-rooted socioeconomic and racial disparities in the nation.

As of now, the Biden administration has dispensed nearly $266 million, leaving more than $334 million at risk of being rolled back. Nick Conger, the EPA’s communications director, stated that they’re diligently working to process these grants.

Recently, the first round of applications was opened for the Thriving Communities program. With just weeks before a possible change in administration, many applicants, like Nerbonne, feel rushed and anxious. Some regions haven’t even opened their application periods yet, making the timeline even tighter.

Nerbonne voiced her concern: “It feels like such a lost chance if funding disappears under a new administration. Local congregations don’t want to be caught in political drama; they’re eager to help their communities.”

Republicans have targeted the environmental justice funding, criticizing the program and claiming it serves political allies rather than communities in need. Some, like U.S. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, argue it’s an inappropriate use of taxpayer money, pushing for stricter oversight.

Former President Trump has hinted at possibly cutting off funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, posing a further threat to these essential community programs.

The funding challenges come on the heels of a broader political climate where conservatives have voiced intentions to limit environmental justice initiatives. Historical legislation aimed at preventing the withholding of funds by the president complicates this situation, as some legal experts doubt whether Trump’s administration would adhere to existing laws that protect appropriated funds.

Time is of the essence for community organizations eager to apply for these grants. Many fear that the looming change in administration might discourage them from pursuing federal support altogether. For instance, Caleb Roberts from Downwinders at Risk shared that securing grant funds for vital health initiatives may now feel uncertain.

Even groups with ambitious plans, like the Alabama-based We Matter Community Association, are reconsidering their approach to federal funding due to the uncertain political landscape. President Carletta Davis noted a shift toward building self-sustaining models for the future.

As the clock ticks down to a potential change in leadership, community organizations are at a crossroads. An uncertain future leaves many questioning whether to apply for grants that could significantly impact their work. The upcoming weeks will be crucial as they navigate this complex landscape.

Check out this related article: Uncovering the UK’s ‘Forever Chemical’ Hotspots: Where Are the High-Risk Sites?

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