Environmental Justice

There are many definitions of Environmental Justice.  The essence of environmental justice is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people in the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, research, and policy regardless of their race, ethnicity, national origin, income, or education.

Fair treatment means that no group of people should bear a disproportionate share of the harmful environmental consequences resulting from contaminants in the environment.

Meaningful involvement means that community residents have an appropriate opportunity to participate in decisions that will affect their environment and/or health; and their participation plays a significant role in guiding the decisions of state, federal, and local agencies in their community.

The Environmental Health Investigations Branch strives to achieve environmental justice in all of its projects so that no segment of the population bears a disproportionate burden of the effects of environmental pollution. We are committed to protecting human health and the environment through research, education, engagement of stakeholders, and empowerment/capacity building of local communities.