Incorporating Environmental Justice in Nepa Reviews Concerning Reuse of Former Military Installations
Abstract
This paper focuses upon the effect that the recent emphasis of incorporating environmental justice concepts into the Federal government's decision making process has had. Specifically, the impact environmental justice considerations will have upon the Department of Defense's (DoD) environmental planning processes during possible future base closure and realignment rounds will be examined. Environmental justice has been a growing item of concern since 1970. Environmental justice is concerned "about raising awareness of and sensitivity to the issues, and about trying to achieve fairness in U.S. environmental policy and in how environmental policy decisions are made." The concept, in effect, incorporates an equal protection aspect within it concerning the adverse environmental effects, as well as attempting to ensure communities have the ability to provide input into the decision making process concerning "their health, environment, and quality of life." The so-called "environmental justice movement" gained momentum when studies were published indicating that there was an unequal distribution of adverse environmental effects, with minority and low-income groups primarily bearing the burden. Although it is in dispute why inequities occur, the studies consistently reflect that minorities absorb the brunt of adverse environmental effects resulting from decisions about the environment. Part II addresses the relevance of environmental justice for the DoD by focusing upon Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, DoD's regulations, and assistance activities. The DoD's role in the base closure and realignment process concerning local community planning activities and local community assistance requires it to be sensitive to the needs of the local community. The Department's sensitivity is required if it is to prepare NEPA documents concerning closure or realignment of former military installations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 02, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA354313
Entities
People
- Lionard L. Broseker
Organizations
- George Washington University