Environmental justice is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. This goal will be achieved when everyone enjoys:
- The same degree of protection from environmental and health hazards, and
- Equal access to the decision-making process to have a healthy environment in which to live, learn, and work. source: US EPA
Watch this short (1 min.) video What Is Climate Justice?
Dig Deeper with a faith perspective :
- In Pursuit of Environmental Justice – by the Rev. Teri Hord Owens, General Minister and President, Christian Church, Disciples of Christ
- Forward Focus: Climate Change & Environmental Justice – the Poor People’s Campaign
Take Action:
Tell Congress to Support the Environmental Justice For All Act! (introduced by our own Rául M. Grijalva). The Environmental Justice For All Act is a community-centered approach that is the “most comprehensive environmental justice bill in history.” It would established various programs and requirements in order to combat disproportionate environmental effects of federal laws on BIPOC communities and/or low-income households.
Go to this site to send a letter of support to your congressional representatives!