Through this new initiative, EPA is challenging the academic community to find innovative and creative ways to use TRI data to promote more informed decision-making and action on the part of communities, manufacturers, and government. Project ideas may range from one semester to multi-year research or coursework as long as the projects increase the knowledge, use, and understanding of TRI data and other related information. Priority will be given to projects related to one or more of the following topics:

• Pollution Prevention and Sustainability
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Technology and Data Mashups
• Environmental Education

Institutions whose project proposals are selected will serve as TRI University Challenge partners. Partners will receive direct non-monetary support from EPA TRI staff experts, and, depending on the outcome of their project, may receive national recognition for their project as well as speaking opportunities at conferences and events. Applicants who are not prepared to submit project ideas this spring are encouraged to submit project proposals during the next open application period.

Sample project ideas and evaluation criteria are posted on the TRI University Challenge website: www.epa.gov/tri/university.

Informational Webinar

Join us for a webinar on March 6 at 2:00 p.m. EST to learn more about the Challenge and ask questions about getting involved.  Register at:  https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/420376090.

Application Deadline

EPA will be accepting TRI University Challenge applications between March 18 and May 13, 2013. Award applications must be submitted electronically to Scott.Zachary@epa.gov by 5:00 p.m. on May 13, 2013, to be considered. Applicants will be contacted regarding their application status by June 14, 2013.

For questions not answered during the webinar, please contact Zachary Scott at scott.zachary@epa.gov

Help spread the word about the Challenge to your friends and professional contacts in academia.