Environmental Justice for All

Wayne Mayer

30 years: Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility Executive

In this video, Wayne discusses the executive order on revitalising our nation’s commitment to Environmental Justice for all, signed on April 21, 2023. He explains how this directive mandates a government-wide approach to ensure every community has access to clean air, water, and a healthy environment, addressing systemic environmental inequalities. He highlights the order's alignment with the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to support Environmental Justice, climate change mitigation, and economic growth. He also explores how businesses can integrate Environmental Justice into their strategies, create competitive advantages, and partner with governments and communities to rectify past injustices and promote sustainable development.

Regulation and Initiatives

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Environmental Justice for All

9 mins 9 secs

Key learning objectives:

Understand the objectives and implications of the Executive Order on Revitalising Our Nation’s Commitment to Environmental Justice for All
Learn how businesses can integrate Environmental Justice into their strategies to create value and competitive advantage
Outline the opportunities for businesses to partner with governments and communities to address environmental injustices

Overview:

The Executive Order on Revitalizing Our Nation’s Commitment to Environmental Justice for All, signed on April 21, 2023, addresses systemic environmental inequalities that have historically burdened disadvantaged communities. Building on the 1994 Executive Order 12898, this new directive mandates a government-wide approach to ensuring every community has access to clean air, water, and a healthy environment. This initiative aligns with the broader objectives of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to support Environmental Justice, mitigate climate change, and stimulate economic growth. By involving communities in decision-making processes and requiring federal agencies to develop Environmental Justice Strategic Plans, the order aims to rectify past injustices and promote sustainable development.

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Summary

What are the key components and objectives of the Executive Order on Environmental Justice for All?

The Executive Order aims to ensure every person has access to clean air, water, safe food, and a healthy environment. It mandates a whole-of-government approach, requiring federal agencies to incorporate Environmental Justice into their missions and involve communities in environmental review processes. Agencies must prepare and submit Environmental Justice Strategic Plans to the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) every four years. The order builds on the foundation of the 1994 Executive Order 12898, addressing environmental inequalities in minority and low-income populations.

How does the Executive Order on Environmental Justice for All address historical environmental injustices?

The Executive Order seeks to rectify past policy and market failures that led to disproportionate environmental burdens on disadvantaged communities. It requires federal agencies to make achieving Environmental Justice part of their mission and to involve impacted communities early in the decision-making process. By mandating the development of Environmental Justice Strategic Plans, the order ensures ongoing accountability and progress in addressing these historical injustices.

How can businesses benefit from aligning with the objectives of the Executive Order on Environmental Justice for All?

Businesses that embrace Environmental Justice can uncover hidden opportunities for innovation and value creation. By reducing their carbon footprint, addressing systemic environmental injustices, and partnering with civil society and governments, companies can build competitive advantage. Engaging with underserved communities and integrating Environmental Justice into their sustainability strategies can also enhance brand equity and social acceptance.

What role do the IRA and BIL play in supporting the goals of the Executive Order on Environmental Justice for All?

The IRA and BIL provide significant funding and resources to support the goals of the Executive Order. These laws direct investments to climate change mitigation and adaptation projects, particularly in underserved communities. By aligning with the broader objectives of the IRA and BIL, the Executive Order leverages these resources to promote Environmental Justice and stimulate economic growth.

How can businesses integrate Environmental Justice into their strategies?

Businesses can integrate Environmental Justice by conducting environmental impact assessments, engaging with stakeholders, and addressing the needs of underserved communities. Practical steps include incorporating green infrastructure, reducing pollution, and partnering with local nonprofits. Additionally, educating teams on Environmental Justice and integrating this knowledge into sustainability and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) programs can further embed these principles into business strategies.

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Wayne Mayer

Wayne Mayer, a Strategic Sustainability consultant and CEO of When Everything Matters, advises multinational companies and non-governmental organizations on various Sustainability and ESG issues. He helps companies transform business models into sustainable development partnerships, using Sustainability principles and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices to drive innovation, growth, and profits. With over 20 years of experience, Wayne has worked as a change agent focused on Environmental, Social, and Governance performance. He helps companies set science-based goals and leverage data and technology to measure, monitor, and communicate ESG risks, impacts, and opportunities.

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