EPA Continues Federal Progress on Environmental Justice with New Department of Environmental Justice
EDF statement on the creation of the new Office of Environmental Justice at EPA
(WASHINGTON — Sept. 24, 2022) “This monumental move to create a new Office of Environmental Justice at Environmental Protection Agency is long overdue. During my time at EPA, I saw the enormous potential that federal attention and resources can have for environmental justice efforts. This development is an important step to mobilize work at every level to achieve a more just future.
“The climate crisis demands us to sharpen our commitment to environmental action and — crucially — to invest in the communities most affected by environmental degradation and disaster. With this new department, EPA is filling key gaps and taking a major stride in supporting and protecting every community, especially the communities to which the environmental movement is indebted.”
- Dr. Margot Brown, Vice President of Justice & Equity at Environmental Defense Fund
“Environmental justice starts and ends with communities. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Justice 40, and the Inflation Reduction Act have created generational opportunities to build a resilient, equitable future for our communities. A department of environmental justice within the EPA is a key development to seize this moment and revitalize the agency’s commitment to the people and communities at the forefront of the climate crisis.”
- Heather McTeer Toney, Vice President of Community Engagement at Environmental Defense Fund
Dr. Margot Brown is available to respond to media inquiries through the weekend. To get in touch, contact Cecile Brown.
One of the world’s leading international nonprofit organizations, Environmental Defense Fund (edf.org) creates transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. To do so, EDF links science, economics, law, and innovative private-sector partnerships. With more than 3 million members and offices in the United States, China, Mexico, Indonesia and the European Union, EDF’s scientists, economists, attorneys and policy experts are working in 28 countries to turn our solutions into action. Connect with us on Twitter @EnvDefenseFund
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