Environmental Finance Program

This 2008 revision of the Guidebook of Financial Tools is a reference document for officials with environmental responsibilities.  It is designed to assist all interested with finding the means of financing environmental protection initiatives that are appropriate for them.

• Over 300 financial tools that can be used to pay for environmental systems.
• Ten sections cover topics ranging from raising capital and enhancing credit to financing pollution prevention activities, community-based environmental protection, and brownfields redevelopment. 
• New section “Tools for Accessing State and Local Financing,” includes many state grant programs. 

An additional section is being developed and will focus on:

• International environmental financing tools including assistance provided by U.S. government organizations and supported international financial institutions such as EPA, Agency for International Development, Department of Energy, World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank, to name a few. 
• Essential international environmental programs undertaken by the United Nations, selected foreign governments, and non-profit organizations will be included.

We intend to continue to undertake periodic updates of the Guidebook and ask that users send us comments and suggestions for new tools and changes and additions to those listed.

For comments, suggestions, and questions regarding the Guidebook, please contact the EFIN Librarian (efin@epa.gov).