Despite rollback agenda, the EPA grants $30 million in clean air grants

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency took a surprising step in the right direction by awarding nearly $30 million in grants for projects that tackle air pollution. The money went to regions in Alaska, Utah, and California that are struggling to meet federal limits for fine particulate matter. About half the projects aim to replace wood stoves with cleaner appliances—a switch that could have big impacts on air quality. Other projects target older diesel vehicles. The grants are good news for the local residents who will be able to breathe easier, but the agency's bigger moves on air quality remain bleak as it continues its rollback rampage, gutting other regulations that tackle smog pollution and encourage the production of more efficient cars.