Colorado conducts first environmental equity analysis in East Colfax amid resident-led initiatives – 9News

Environmental Equity and Health Disparities Study in Aurora’s East Colfax Neighborhood

Introduction

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has initiated the state’s first Environmental Equity and Cumulative Impact Analysis in the East Colfax neighborhood of Aurora. This project is conducted in partnership with the Black Parents United Foundation to address overlapping environmental factors affecting health and quality of life in a diverse and economically challenged community.

Project Objectives and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The study aims to investigate environmental pollution and health disparities, aligning with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including:

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – by examining health outcomes related to environmental factors.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – by focusing on a community with significant racial and economic disparities.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – by improving environmental quality and living conditions.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action – through analysis of extreme heat impacts.

Community Engagement and Data Collection

• The Office of Environmental Justice collaborates with the Black Parents United Foundation to collect local data and incorporate residents’ lived experiences.
• Community input is central to the project, ensuring policies developed are equitable and informed.
• Between July 14 and August 8, nominations were accepted from community members, tribal and local governments, and organizations, resulting in the selection of East Colfax as the study area.

Demographic and Environmental Context

• East Colfax is home to 48% people of color and over one-third of residents live in poverty, as reported by the Colorado Equity Compass.
• The neighborhood faces multiple environmental challenges including air pollution, extreme heat, and mental health concerns.
• Life expectancy in East Colfax is notably low, highlighting urgent health equity issues.

Community-Led Approach

• The Black Parents United Foundation emphasizes a community-led methodology, ensuring residents actively participate in decision-making processes.
• Leaders stress the importance of tangible outcomes to rebuild trust, as previous unfulfilled promises have caused community disillusionment.
• Collaboration between the community and government agencies is identified as critical to the project’s success.

Expected Outcomes and Impact

• The findings will inform future state and local policies related to permitting, urban planning, and public health initiatives.
• This project supports the advancement of environmental justice and contributes to achieving the SDGs by addressing systemic inequalities and promoting healthier, sustainable communities.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article discusses health disparities, life expectancy, and mental health issues in the East Colfax neighborhood.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • The focus on environmental equity and the involvement of a diverse, economically strained community highlights efforts to reduce inequalities.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The study aims to improve environmental quality and quality of life in an urban neighborhood.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Addressing air pollution and extreme heat relates to climate action and environmental sustainability.
5. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Community participation and equitable policy development reflect inclusive decision-making and strong institutions.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.9: Reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination.
   • Target 3.4: Promote mental health and well-being.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including air quality and waste management.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters.
5. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Target 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Health Indicators
   • Life expectancy rates in the East Colfax neighborhood.
   • Incidence and prevalence of illnesses related to pollution and environmental hazards.
   • Mental health status and access to mental health services.
2. Environmental Quality Indicators
   • Levels of air pollution measured locally.
   • Frequency and intensity of extreme heat events.
   • Assessment of cumulative environmental impacts.
3. Social Inclusion and Participation Indicators
   • Degree of community involvement in decision-making processes.
   • Number of policies developed with community input.
   • Measures of poverty and demographic data (e.g., percentage of residents living in poverty, racial/ethnic composition).

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: 9news.com