What is Environmental Justice?

Environmental justice (EJ) 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.

Fair treatment means no group of people should bear a disproportionate share of the negative environmental consequences resulting from industrial, governmental and commercial operations or policies.

Meaningful involvement means

  • People have an opportunity to participate in decisions about activities that may affect their environment and/or health.
  • The public’s contribution can influence the regulatory agency’s decision.
  • Community concerns will be considered in the decision making process.
  • Decision makers will seek out and facilitate the involvement of those potentially affected.

Show All Answers

1. What is a Housing Element?
2. What are the components of a Housing Element?
3. What happens if a jurisdiction does not adopt a Housing Element?
4. Who determines how many housing units are needed and how is the number calculated?
5. Why is the Housing Element Update important?
6. Why update the Safety Element?
7. What is Menlo Park's fair share?
8. What is Environmental Justice?