Environment DEC
From the October 2007 issue
DEC Seeks Proposals to Reduce Toxics and Pollution throughout the State
The institute will work to develop technologies for reducing toxic chemicals at the beginning rather than the end of manufacturing processesNew York State is seeking proposals to help establish a new pollution prevention institute that will promote innovative and cost effective methods for reducing or eliminating the use of toxic substances in manufacturing and other processes, Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Pete Grannis announced recently. DEC is encouraging public or private universities, non-profit institutions, or a consortium of such organizations, to submit proposals to develop and implement this pioneering project initiated by Governor Eliot Spitzer in the 2007-08 Executive Budget.
Technology Proving Ground
When established, the institute will provide an unparalleled center for technology evaluation and development, as well as technology transfer, training, assistance and workforce development. The institute's objective is to make businesses more competitive by enabling them to be more efficient.
"Pollution prevention goes beyond energy conservation and end-of-pipe solutions," Commissioner Grannis said. "We must find ways of modifying manufacturing processes, finding acceptable product substitutions and changing the management and operation of facilities to reduce pollution, resource consumption and waste at the beginning, rather than the end of the process. And we must do so in a way that allows New York to remain competitive in the global marketplace."
Looking for Partners
The institute will foster partnerships among businesses, universities, state and local governments, health and environmental organizations to stimulate the research and development of cutting-edge environmental technologies that will focus on sustainability and reducing the use of toxic chemicals over the course of a product's life cycle. A Request for Proposals (RFP) was recently developed and released by DEC, and $2 million in a new Environmental Protection Fund category was allocated to support the project.
More Information-Due Date
Find more information on the RFP at the Pollution Prevention Institute - Request for Proposals web page on DEC's website. Information is also in the August 29, 2007 editions of the New York State Register and the New York State Environmental Notice Bulletin. Proposals are due by December 5, 2007.
To Submit a Proposal
Potential applicants are encouraged to submit a proposal for this exciting new venture via ground or e-mail by sending the name, address, phone, and e-mail of the appropriate contact person for your proposal to:
Pollution Prevention Institute - RFP Information
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Division of Environmental Permits - Pollution Prevention Unit
Attn: Michelle Hinman
625 Broadway
Albany, NY 12233-1750
Fax: 518-402-9168
E-mail: depprmt@gw.dec.state.ny.us
