Two things: This week, we’re celebrating a recent PFAS policy win and spreading the word about the Small Grants for Smart Growth program available for towns across Vermont during this time of flood recovery.
Stay informed, stay connected – two things.
PFAS Policy Win
In a regulatory shift for the cosmetics industry, Governor Scott signed VT S.25 into law on May 30, 2024. The new law targeting manufacturers of personal care products and cosmetics takes effect on January 1, 2026 and aims to protect consumers by banning PFAS and other harmful chemicals in these products. Vermont Conservation Voters, led by Executive Director Lauren Hierl, has been advocating for legislation that ensures greater consumer protections in everyday products like these, calling for policy measures like safety assessments and penalties for noncompliance. The passage of VT S.25 is a huge win, but it’s only the beginning of VCV and VNRC’s long fight to ensure a toxic-free environment for all. Read more about the PFAS victory here.
Small Grants for Smart Growth
Communities across Vermont are facing the complex question of how – and where – to rebuild following this summer’s extreme flooding. Investing in our historic town and village centers is how we ensure accessible, affordable, and sustainable communities…but how do we ensure that smart growth is also safe and resilient?
To help build momentum toward flood resilient community development, VNRC’s Small Grants for Smart Growth program, in collaboration with Preservation Trust of Vermont, is launching a special competitive grant round to offer 1 award of up to $5,000 for a community-driven project involving:
- Community conversations or visioning;
- Climate-smart planning or zoning; or
- Technical support for flood recovery or mitigation in community centers.
- Projects must meet several smart growth principles.
Preference will be given to:
- Flood impacted communities
- Projects that address the needs of frontline communities and historically marginalized Vermonters; and,
- Projects that will catalyze future efforts.
Applications are due Friday, August 23, 2024.
PS: Climate Action Survey
Vermont’s Climate Action Plan is a critical piece of our state’s resiliency efforts. Released in 2021, the plan outlines steps to cut pollution and help Vermonters prepare for extreme weather and climate change’s many impacts. As the Climate Action Council prepares to update the plan, they need your input to make sure the plan reflects the needs of all Vermonters.
Ways to get involved:
Make your voice heard and take the Climate Action Plan Update survey