(NewsUSA) - Washington, D.C.—The Center for Research in Environmental and Sustainable Technologies (CREST Foundation), a leading non-profit based in Washington, D.C., has received important local support for its revolutionary Climate Hub solution framework from Senator Joe Manchin III (D-West Virginia), Representative Carol Miller (R-West Virginia), and Delegate Daniel Linville from the West Virginia House of Delegates.

CREST has proposed to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that it provide significant funding for the development of its Carbon Neutral Sustainable Technologies project, which would be located at Wolf Creek in Fayette Country, West Virginia.   This innovative project would greatly benefit the local community and become a blueprint for Climate Hubs across the United States and around the world. 

Specifically, the project would create over 400 jobs, 6.5 megawatts of energy from renewable sources, sequester over 425,000 tons of carbon, plant 116,000 trees, prevent over 1,500 tons of waste from entering landfills, and protect the biodiversity of an invaluable Appalachian ecosystem.  In a letter of support on August 24, 2023, for the project to Michael Regan, Administrator of EPA, Senator Manchin stated that “If awarded, this grant would catalyze a transformational project that would accelerate the adoption of circular economic practices and maximize the benefits of the sustainable economy in West Virginia.” “

Rep. Miller echoed Sen. Manchin’s support for the project by stating to Administrator Regan that: “I believe the CREST Foundation’s grant application is essential for further growth of Southern West Virginia and will improve the region’s air quality, using renewable energy and innovative technologies.  If awarded, these funds will be used to complement the recreational tourism already established in Fayette County and provide economic development and employment opportunities for residents in the area.”

Apart from federal funds being sought for the West Virginia Climate Hub project important support has also been secured from Delegate Daniel Linville, Chairman of the Committee on Technology and Infrastructure of the West Virginia House of Delegates, who has stated that state dollars could be made available for the Climate Hub project contingent upon federal support.

The creator of the Climate Hub concept of carbon neutral communities is the Founder and CEO of the CREST Foundation, Rajendra Kumar.  His book Blue Dharma provides the vision for the Climate Hub and seeks to shape a new generation’s perception of the environment.

Bart S. Fisher, President and Founder of CREST Foundation, commented that “In alignment with EPA’s ambitions, our Climate Hub embodies the confluence of research, innovation, and commitment.  While the broader narrative focuses on environmental justice, Rajendra Kumar’s vision brings to the fore a nuanced approach to climate resilience, reflecting a decade of this passion and dedication.”