The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has made the cash available to communities across the states to help them clean up sites known as brownfields.

These may be contaminated by hazardous chemicals or pollutants from various industries from oil to manufacturing.

Communities in 46 states, four tribes, and two US Territories will share these funding to help revitalize former industrial and commercial sites, turning them from problem properties to productive business and community institutions.

Lisa Jackson, EPA administrator, said: “Cleaning and reusing contaminated properties provides the catalyst to improving the lives of residents living in or near Brownfields communities.

“Revitalised Brownfields site reduces threats to human health and the environment, creates green jobs, promotes community involvement, and attracts investment in local neighbourhoods.”

In all, 252 applicants were selected to receive 389 grants who will share the money.

By Luke Walsh

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