Environmental Justice

What is Environmental Justice?

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. EPA has this goal for all communities and persons across this Nation. It 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.

National Environmental Justice Advisory Council (NEJAC)
A Federal committee providing recommendations to EPA on environmental justice matters
Meetings | Recommendations

EJ 2020 Action Agenda
EJ 2020 is EPA’s road map for advancing environmental justice across the agency and federal government.

Environmental Justice Grants & Programs
Providing financial assistance to for projects to address local environmental concerns
Small Grants | Collaborative Problem Solving Cooperative Agreements

Federal Interagency Working Group on Environmental Justice (IWG)
Various Federal agencies and White House offices working to integrate environmental justice into its individual programs

EPA Policy on Environmental Justice for Tribes and Indigenous Peoples
A policy to provide clarity and consistency in how EPA works with federally-recognized tribes and indigenous peoples throughout the United States, and others living in Indian country to address their environmental justice issues.

Environmental Justice Achievement Awards
Recognizing the achievements of organizations that undertake environmental justice initiatives which make a positive impact in the community

Community Outreach Teleconferences
Provides information to participants about the Agency’s EJ activities and maintain an open dialogue with EJ advocates

Creating Equitable, Healthy and Sustainable Communities
The Partnership for Sustainable Communities has composed a guide to EPA, HUD, and DOT resources on sustainability and EJ.