The EPA defines environmental justice as “..the just treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of income, race, color, national origin, Tribal affiliation, or disability, in agency decision-making and other Federal activities that affect human health and the environment so that people:
This definition is used by federal oversight agencies and adapted by The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
On September 18, 2020, New Jersey became the first state to pass a law requiring its state regulators to consider the environmental and public health impacts on overburdened communities when they consider permit applications. This law was enacted April 17, 2023.
The everyday operations of a society have an environmental impact. Sometimes, these impacts can lead to environmental injustices, while there are some obvious examples, some may be harder to identify. Let us explore these operations further.
Environmental Equity means access to a healthy living space where no one is taking on the burdens of environmental impacts in an unjust fashion. A healthy community has clean air and water, green spaces, and community involvement in environmental decision-making.
Ensuring that all communities have a voice in the environmental decision-making process is vital. Laws need to be strengthened and enforced that protect vulnerable communities from environmental hazards. Sustainable solutions like green spaces, clean and accessible public transportation, and renewable energy need to be implemented. There are many resources available and pathways to achieving environmental equity.
