A Commentary on Efforts in Six States to Advance Environmental Justice

Abstract

Throughout the country, communities of color and low-wealth populations are overburdened by environmental hazards and locally unwanted land uses. Issues of discrimination, racism, and injustice in the siting of industrial hazards, effects on environmental quality, and impacts on health in these communities have been neglected by the mainstream and environmentalist movements. In this commentary, we describe specific efforts of community-based organizations, nonprofits, and state and local agencies to address environmental justice (EJ) issues with an emphasis on six states—North Carolina, Virginia, New Jersey, Minnesota, Maryland, and California. For each of these six states, we discuss the role of community-based organizations in providing the foundation for EJ efforts, progress and challenges, and detail innovative and impactful partnerships. We also describe advancements that have been made in achieving EJ goals at the state and local level through government action, including legislation. Finally, we provide recommendations and strategies that can be used to advance EJ, improve public health, and enhance the quality of life in overburdened and underserved communities.