Update on NSSGA EPA Grant and EPD Program Development

The National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) has recently been awarded a $9.65 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to support the development of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for the aggregate industry. This grant is part of a broader $250 million EPA initiative to assist various industries in EPD development. While the grant has been officially awarded, NSSGA is currently awaiting formal authorization to access the funds.
 
Once authorized, NSSGA plans to significantly enhance EPD capabilities through the following initiatives:
 

• Staffing: Hiring a full-time professional to lead the EPD program, ensuring dedicated focus and expertise.
• EPD Tool Development: Either acquiring an existing EPD tool or developing a new one tailored to the specific needs of the industry, enabling accurate and efficient EPD generation.
• Program Management: Managing the EPD program to ensure alignment with industry standards and to effectively serve NSSGA members.

 
In light of the EPA grant announcements, the cost of developing EPDs has risen significantly. NSSGA is aware of these price increases and is working to negotiate group rate contracts with existing EPD tool providers to help lower the cost per EPD.
 
Once NSSGA receives authorization for the grant, the association will offer several benefits to its members, including:
 

• Financial Assistance: Providing financial support for NSSGA members to help offset EPD development costs.
• EPD Tool Accessibility: Offering NSSGA members free access to the newly developed EPD tool. Non-members NSSGA members will have access to the tool for a reasonable fee, depending on grant funding availability.
• Educational Outreach: Partnering with state associations to educate industry stakeholders about the EPD program and its benefits.
• Certification Support: Reimbursing members for costs related to obtaining necessary certifications, with prior approval.

 
NSSGA anticipates receiving grant authorization by the end of this year. In the meantime, groundwork is being laid for the EPD program to ensure a smooth rollout once authorization is granted.
 
Due to this recent announcement, MAA is recommending to delay developing EPDs until NSSGA's EPD program is officially launched, as this will allow MAA to partner with NSSGA and ensure that our members can benefit from the future to support and resources.
 
If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to contact the MAA office at 517-381-1732.