Environmental Justice

ABOUT

West Atlanta Watershed Alliance’s (WAWA) Environmental Justice team believes that “environmental justice affirms the sacredness of Mother Earth, ecological unity and interdependence of all species”. Through our programs of forest ethnography, climate justice, greenspace wellness, and more–the EJ team works to elevate the voices of southwest Atlanta and surrounding communities to ensure an equitable quality of life & residency.

MISSION

To provide equity to our surrounding communities through research & development, equity, forest ethnography, climate 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.

Trifecta of Insecurity

"The impacts of climate change manifest in our immediate surroundings and communities. Constraints related to socioeconomic status limit people's choices for housing and neighborhoods, forcing difficult trade-offs to meet fundamental needs like food, water, shelter, and power. This leads to precarious access to housing, utilities, and nutrition."

Housing Security Inadequate housing conditions pose significant challenges to health, potentially leading to respiratory issues like asthma, nutritional deficiencies, injuries, and even mortality.	Energy Security Individuals affected by energy insecurity often allocate an uneven amount of their income to utilities-related expenses, facing inefficiencies in their homes such as outdated appliances and drafts causing heat loss. This situation leads to extreme home temperatures, hazardous heating alternatives, and constant fear of utility shut-offs or accumulating arrears in bills.	Food Security Unreliable access to an adequate amount of affordable, nutritious food can lead to malnutrition and hunger. These conditions can result in nutritional deficiencies, impaired physical and cognitive development, and an increased risk of various health conditions, significantly impacting overall well-being and productivity.

Partners

Water Security

At WAWA, we see water as THEE element of insecurity related to its use in energy systems, as well as the threat development, aging infrastructure, and a changing climate have on stormwater flooding and combined sewer overflows. For this reason, innovative watershed management is essential for exceptional water utilization.