Bridging the DEI Gap in Climate Policy: Advocating for a Sustainable and Inclusive Future

From smoggy skies to flood-prone neighborhoods, not all areas in San Mateo County deal with climate change the same way. The challenges of clean air, safe housing, and disaster resources often hit low-income communities and those of color hardest.

### Unequal Impacts

In neighborhoods like East Palo Alto, residents face significant health risks due to pollution. These areas often lack access to parks and quality food. “East Palo Alto continues to confront various environmental justice challenges tied to past inequalities,” says Michelle Huang, the city’s assistant planner. She emphasizes that communities living near pollution sources struggle the most.

### City’s Action Plan

The city is making strides to change this. Huang leads the Environmental Justice Element of the city’s general plan. This initiative aims to ensure everyone has access to a clean environment and to counteract the historical neglect these communities have faced. Recent projects include expanding parkland, improving sidewalks, and ensuring access to healthier food options.

Local efforts are focused on reversing decades of environmental harm. Huang explains that much of this stems from outdated zoning laws that put industrial areas too close to residential spaces, thus affecting air quality and health.

### Community Engagement

Community voices are vital in this effort. The city has partnered with consulting firms and local nonprofits to ensure historical perspectives are heard. They’re doing outreach in multiple languages and encouraging feedback from all residents, especially those often left out of discussions.

Engagement is not just a top-down approach; local youth are stepping up too. Recent efforts have included high school students running workshops and gathering community opinions about environmental issues.

### Ongoing Challenges

Despite these initiatives, East Palo Alto still faces high rates of asthma-related hospital visits, significantly above the county average. Residents living close to major highways are especially at risk due to air pollution, unlike wealthier neighborhoods that see lower rates of health problems.

### Policy Changes

The city’s Environmental Justice Element introduces several key protections. New rules require soil testing and ensure safety standards for construction in flood-prone areas. Additionally, stricter zoning laws will prevent new pollution sources from being created in already overburdened neighborhoods.

Huang states that these policies aim to restore polluted sites and improve overall health outcomes for residents. “These initiatives will support creating a healthier and more equitable community,” she says.

### Wider County Goals

Beyond East Palo Alto, San Mateo County is also pushing for sustainable practices. Karen Wang from the county’s Sustainability Department notes that community input has been essential in shaping the county’s Community Climate Action Plan. The goal is to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2040.

Wang highlights the importance of involving youth in climate discussions. “Young people offer innovative ideas that drive effective policies,” she explains. Educational programs like Youth Exploring Climate Science empower students to take part in sustainability efforts.

### Local Perspectives

At Carlmont High School, Tara Krishnan leads the Green Team, advocating for sustainability on campus. She emphasizes the need for awareness about environmental justice, noting the challenges that arise when seeking administrative support for projects.

Krishnan’s vision for environmental justice focuses on ensuring that no community bears more than its fair share of climate change impacts. “It’s crucial to develop solutions that are equitable and accessible to all,” she says.

### Conclusion

As momentum builds around Earth Day, the fight for environmental justice continues. Communities are beginning to understand how their voices can shape environmental policies. The collective aim is clear: to protect all residents from the worst effects of climate change and ensure a healthier future for everyone.



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