Hot Topics

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EJRC Home Katrina Update Hot Topics

Problem: Hurricane Katrina Cleanup, which neighborhoods get cleaned and which don't?

Solution: Because the government has shown to be incapable of promptly and fairly reconstructing the damage, a solution to many may be Independent Projects. "The Deep South Center for Environmental Justice at Dillard University (DSCEJ) in partnership with the United Steelworkers (USW) have undertaken A Safe Way Back Home pilot neighborhood clean-up project-the first of its kind in New Orleans." http://www.ejrc.cau.edu/featurearticles.htm

Problem: Environmental Racism - "refers to any policy, practice or directive that differentially affects or disadvantages (whether intended or unintended) individuals, groups or communities based on race or colour" http://www.unrisd.org/unrisd/website/newsview.nsf/(httpNews)/31EE057231E7187FC1256F790050344B?

Solution: Understanding of racism by considering who pays and who benefits from certain acts of policy. The only real solution will come from awareness of environmental racism and creation of fair policy for all races. (http://www.bendib.com/black/1-13-05-Asbestos.jpg-copy.jpg)

Problem: Vehicle pollution found worse in school bus pollution

Solution: "The study recommends minimizing commute times, using the cleanest buses for the longest commutes, accelerating the retirement of older buses, and decreasing bus caravanning and idling time to reduce children's exposure to bus-related air pollutants." http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/nr101503.htm