The Trash Free Waters – Micro/Nanoplastics in the Gulf of Mexico funding opportunity (EPA-R4-GM-2024-TFW) by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) aims to address the growing environmental challenge posed by micro and nanoplastics in the Gulf of Mexico watershed. The initiative is part of the EPA's broader efforts to protect and restore the Gulf of Mexico, particularly by preventing plastic waste from reaching water bodies and developing innovative technologies to remove microplastics already present. This opportunity focuses on innovative projects that contribute to source reduction, management practices, and technologies designed to eliminate microplastics, as well as efforts to improve public access to research on microplastics pollution.

Projects applying for funding must fall under at least one of three primary focus areas: (1) demonstrating management practices and technologies to remove microplastics from waterways, (2) implementing innovative approaches to prevent microplastics from entering water systems through source reduction strategies, and (3) improving the availability of research on microplastics, including identifying data gaps and enhancing coordination among researchers. Proposals addressing the third area must include a substantial educational component. Additionally, all projects are required to develop educational resources to help consumers, communities, and businesses make informed decisions regarding microplastics.

The EPA anticipates making approximately $5 million available to fund eight to twelve projects, with individual awards ranging from $500,000 to $750,000. Projects may be up to three years in duration. Funding will be provided through grants or cooperative agreements, depending on the level of federal involvement required. Cooperative agreements may involve significant EPA oversight and collaboration throughout the project’s execution.

Eligible applicants include governmental entities (such as state and local governments), institutions of higher education, Indian tribes, and nonprofit organizations. For-profit organizations are not eligible. Proposed projects must take place within the Gulf of Mexico watershed and the coastal counties of the five Gulf states: Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. There is no cost-sharing requirement for this funding opportunity, meaning applicants are not required to provide matching funds.

Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by November 22, 2024. The application process requires a project narrative, a detailed budget, and supporting documents, such as letters of support from partner organizations. Proposals will be evaluated based on several criteria, including the quality and feasibility of the project design, anticipated environmental results, the project's outreach and communication plan, and partnerships that can enhance the project’s effectiveness. EPA will also assess applicants' past performance in managing similar grants and their ability to efficiently manage funds.

Successful projects are expected to contribute to the EPA’s long-term strategic goals, particularly in ensuring clean and safe water for all communities and protecting waterbodies and watersheds. The program also encourages applications from Minority Serving Institutions and projects that will benefit disadvantaged communities.

Applicants selected for funding will be required to report on their progress regularly and ensure that any data generated through the project is made publicly accessible through the EPA’s Water Quality Exchange (WQX) or similar platforms. Additionally, projects involving data collection or the use of environmental data may need to develop a Quality Management Plan (QMP) and a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) in accordance with EPA guidelines before collecting or analyzing data.