Location: Staten Island, NY | Client: EPA’s Environmental Justice Program (Headquarters) and EPA Region 2 | Project Date: 2013

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Links and Resources

Interactive North Shore Environmental Profile Report

Project Description

Situation

The North Shore of Staten Island is characterized by industrial areas located near neighborhoods as well as contaminated sites requiring federal and state cleanups. Residents are concerned about diesel, lead and noise pollution and health studies show increased rates of asthma, heart disease and cancer in the community. Despite these challenges, the area also has a strong cultural heritage, promising waterfront potential and dedicated community members. EPA designated the North Shore as an Environmental Justice Showcase Community due to significant environmental and health burdens, vulnerable populations, limited opportunities for effective participation in environmental and public health decision-making, and opportunities for federal, state and local collaboration, particularly in the area of green development.

Solution

Skeo Solutions collaborated with EPA, New York state agencies and the North Shore Community Coalition for Environmental Justice to create a customized Environmental Profile of the area. The Profile covers background information such as zoning and demographics as well as important environmental and public health findings. Interactive GIS maps, plain language text and colorful graphics make the Profile engaging for readers.

Outcome

The Profile provides important environmental and public health information for local residents so they can learn more and get involved in decisions that affect their lives and their community. Local community groups are able to use the document for outreach and as a roadmap for prioritizing initiatives. State and federal agencies are using the document to identify opportunities for collaboration.