EPA defines environmental justice (EJ) as 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. Region 8's EJ Program works with other EPA staff, states, tribes, and communities to incorporate EJ into program activities and policies to ensure that the environment and human health are fairly protected.

• Focus attention on the human health and environmental conditions in minority communities and low-income communities with the goal of achieving environmental justice.
• Foster nondiscrimination in federal programs that substantially affect human health or the environment.
• Give minority communities and low-income communities greater opportunities for public participation in, and access to public information on matters relating to human health and the environment.

• Strengthen community capacity to address EJ issues through training, education, and effective grant management.
• Involve communities in environmental decision-making through effective outreach, accessible information, and by strengthening partnerships between government agencies, states, tribes, industry, and community members.
• Incorporate EJ principles into EPA policies and program activities through consultation, guidance, and research.

For more information on the Region 8 EJ Program, please contact us.