To curb pollution in communities often overlooked, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, in partnership with the County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) and the Chicago Urban League, announced a $1.4 million grant award from the Businesses Reducing Impact on the Environment (BRITE) program to six suburban Cook County businesses, as announced in a Cook County release.
Addressing the need for environmental sustainability, President Preckwinkle highlighted, "The BRITE program will assist businesses in reducing pollution and the use of toxic chemicals" and expressed the initiative's goal to support historically disinvested communities; the effort supplements President Preckwinkle's administration's focus on fostering sustainable communities, her statement revealed a determination to improve the quality of life within Cook County, sustainability being a key part of the county’s endeavors.
Grant beneficiaries, including a selection of dry cleaners, auto repair shops, and manufacturers, will utilize the funds for pollution mitigation measures identified by free on-site assessments conducted by the DES – the assessments aim to uncover ways to reduce energy and water usage, develop waste diversion strategies, lessen reliance on toxic chemicals in operations, and assess the feasibility of on-site renewable energy solutions.
Sketchbook Brewing Company and other businesses like QC Finishers and Sun Cleaners received specific grants amounting to up to $300,000, with still more funds available, businesses interested in pursuing environmental improvements can fill out an interest form offered in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and Korean; those that have undergone similar assessments since 2018 might also be eligible for direct grant funding, demonstrating the county's open-handed approach to pollution reduction and proactive environmental stewardship.
Ricardo Magallon, manager of DES’s Air Inspection Division and BRITE program manager, emphasized the program's role in educating facilities on the significance of reducing operational pollution, stating, “We’re proud to offer funding to support pollution reduction at these businesses.” Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Cook County has directed over $100 million towards forging a greener future and combating climate change, reflecting a commitment to an environmentally conscious and equitable ecosystem for its residents.