Transforming Housing for Climate and Cost Efficiency
In Kansas City, Missouri, residents of Woodlen Place Apartments are on the brink of experiencing lower energy bills. This change is brought about by a fresh wave of federal funding aimed at reducing housing costs while simultaneously addressing the climate crisis.
The 16 townhomes will see updates like new energy-efficient windows and insulation. Moreover, outdated heating and cooling systems will be replaced by air-source heat pumps and heat pump water heaters, which are crucial for cutting down electricity usage and associated emissions.
Solar arrays will be installed on some buildings to further decrease energy consumption and lower utility expenses. These updates are funded by a $3.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
The HUD grant is part of a $69 million initiative to help developers nationwide install clean energy systems, improve energy efficiency, and fortify structures against climate change impacts like heat waves and floods.
Federal Support for Environmental Justice
Julia Gordon, HUD’s assistant secretary for housing, highlighted that this recent funding round is part of a broader aim to promote environmental justice. The grants are exclusive to housing properties in HUD’s Section 8 rental assistance program for low-income families.
This aligns with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which mandates that 40% of the benefits from federal environmental and energy investments go to historically marginalized communities. Gordon emphasized the personal significance of this initiative, having worked in many struggling communities.
Studies have long shown that poorer neighborhoods, often with a higher proportion of Black and Indigenous residents, face more significant environmental hazards. These communities also bear the brunt of climate change impacts like wildfires and floods.
Extreme weather events have intensified, leading to difficulties in obtaining or affording home insurance, especially in states like California and Florida. Nationwide, home insurance costs have risen by 21% since 2015.
Building Resilience Against Climate Threats
HUD’s recent grants are part of a larger effort to protect residents and developers from the adverse effects of climate change. Last year, HUD implemented new building standards requiring stringent flood-proofing measures for new homes built with federal funds in floodplains.
The updated rule ensures that all homes are constructed to withstand increased flood risks. This comprehensive approach aims to make buildings more resilient to flooding and minimize potential harm.
HUD’s initiatives are designed to shield both residents and property owners from the escalating costs and risks associated with climate change. The agency is committed to enhancing the resilience of communities nationwide.
Key elements of the new standards include:
- Elevating building foundations
- Implementing advanced flood-proofing techniques
- Ensuring long-term resilience to flooding
Spreading the Impact of Climate Journalism
Inside Climate News continues to provide free and accessible news on climate and environmental issues, thanks to its nonprofit status. This approach enables the organization to share vital information widely and collaborate with other media outlets.
Since its inception in 2007, Inside Climate News has grown to become the largest dedicated climate newsroom in the country. The team strives to tell complex stories, hold polluters accountable, and expose environmental injustices.
Inside Climate News’ work is supported by donations from readers, which fund every aspect of their reporting. The organization emphasizes the importance of making climate news accessible to all.
Their commitment to environmental journalism ensures that crucial stories reach a broad audience, driving awareness and inspiring action.
EmilySpark
Is this just for urban areas or will rural communities benefit too?
Rose
Hope this means more affordable housing for those who need it most.
sadieelysium
Are there any success stories from similar past initiatives?
logan1
Finally, something positive in the news! Thank you Inside Climate News! 😊
lincolnjourney1
It’s great but $69M seems like a drop in the bucket for the scale of the problem.
lincoln
Does anyone know if these initiatives will create local jobs?
Leo_Aurora7
About time we see some real action in environmental justice. Kudos to HUD!
mariah
Wow, this is amazing! 😍 Can’t wait to see the impact on energy bills!
autumn8
How can I apply for one of these grants in my community?