EPA Supports Green Awareness, Research
In a Feb. 11 press release, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said it does not have a position on the "Green Transportation Infrastructure Research and Technology Transfer Act" (H.R. 5161), but it does support efforts to raise awareness and stimulate research and action for green infrastructure.
The U.S. House of Representatives Science and Technology Subcommittee on Innovation recently approved the legislation last week with an amendment. The bill will be considered by the full committee next. Subcommittees of the U.S. House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure Committee also are considering the legislation.
"The bill recognizes our country can accelerate environmental and transportation progress together," said Assistant Administrator for Water Benjamin H. Grumbles. "Through our January 2008 Green Infrastructure Strategy and the President's Executive Order 13423 (Strengthening Federal Energy, Environmental, and Transportation Leadership), EPA and the Department of Transportation are working together to advance common goals and protect watersheds, such as our Green Highways partnership in the Mid-Atlantic region. The growing emphasis on green transportation infrastructure will be key to meeting our ambitious goals for protecting wetlands and managing stormwater."