EPA Terminates $116 Million in Grants for Reducing Emissions from Construction Materials

Nearly two dozen projects related to measuring and reducing carbon emissions in construction materials have been terminated by the EPA. The grants, issued through the C-MORE program (Construction Material Opportunities to Reduce Emissions) were issued for economic purposes. The goal was to support US construction products to be more competitive both domestically and in international markets that have more stringent emissions requirements.

Reporting on the cuts, Inside Climate News lists the 21 projects whose grants were terminated. Among universities and research projects, many of the grants were earmarked for trade organizations like the National Asphalt Pavement Association, the Portland Cement Association, the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association and others. The list of cuts was provided by the EPA to the Sierra Club through a public records request.

The Inside Climate News article quotes Max Puchtel from the American Institute of Steel Construction, one of 19 trade groups that sent a letter to the EPA in February urging them to maintain the grants.

“This program will drive innovation by funding projects that improve energy efficiency, giving U.S. manufacturers a competitive edge in key industries like automotive, steel, concrete, aluminum, chemicals, and construction,” the letter said. “It will lower long-term costs, boost profitability, and strengthen domestic supply chains, making U.S. companies more resilient and less reliant on foreign suppliers. Ultimately, it will enhance energy independence, secure jobs, and create new opportunities.”

Read Inside Climate News’ full report below.