Date of Graduation

2002

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

Committee Chair

David H. Whaley

Abstract

This study develops a quantitative and objective method of analyzing community vulnerability combined with potential exposure to emission hazards. This extends earlier work concerning Environmental Justice Through Pollution Prevention (EJP2) initiatives for optimal selection of facilities for resource allocation for pollution prevention initiatives. A 1992 EPA report indicated that minority and low-income communities are exposed to higher levels of pollution in their neighborhoods than that of the general population. Environmental Justice is a grassroots derived term for addressing these disproportionate shares of negative environmental impacts, which are placed upon people of minority or low socio-economic status. The method developed identifies areas of Environmental Justice concern, based on potential hazardous exposure using a chemical hazard score, combined with a quantitative Geographic Information Systems (GIS) proximity analysis of industrial facility areas. The community vulnerability score is based on three components: (1) population density; (2) a combination of three social justice parameters-race, poverty and education and (3) analysis of local sensitive receptors (e.g. schools or hospitals) for distance from polluting source, whether continuously or non-continuously occupied and prevailing wind direction. This method will outline steps necessary to help communities and business identify and mitigate potential pollution damage in their neighborhoods, as well as assist government with Environmental Justice decisions.

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