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GREEN DREAMS: PDE Hosts Gathering for Environmental Justice
GREEN DREAMS: PDE Hosts Gathering for Environmental Justice
By John Harrod, PDE’s Engagement Director
On March 12, more than 100 environmental professionals, community leaders, and government representatives from around the Delaware River Watershed gathered at the Rutgers University Camden Campus Center in New Jersey to discuss environmental justice.
PDE hosted this free event in collaboration with the Delaware River location of the Urban Waters Federal Partnership. Participants from across the watershed, including Trenton and Camden, New Jersey, Wilmington, Delaware, and Philadelphia and Chester, Pennsylvania, left the event better equipped to move forward with environmental sustainability work in their communities in a more coordinated, efficient, and effective manner.
Rutkosky, a fish and wildlife biologist, said projects that advance environmental justice and community stability need momentum. For example, she cited a native plant garden project in Chester that she learned about at the forum.
During the Gathering’s afternoon sessions, attendees broke into groups to discuss climate change and engaging youth in community discussions. They also explored incorporating green infrastructure into urban spaces, including urban greening and tactics such as rooftop gardens, parks, and porous pathways for walking and bicycling. The day ended with a session that shared tips and tricks on how to get environmental justice projects funded. In between sessions, attendees had time to network, visit exhibitor tables, and share resources.
Urban community group leaders shared inspiring success stories on diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice. The group also discussed topics such as effective partnership strategies, advocacy, engagement with community members, and elevating community voice.
“It was a very positive experience for everyone that was there,” said attendee Flavia Rutkosky of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
This event was planned in collaboration with PDE and workgroup members of the Urban Waters Federal Partnership Delaware River location. The Gathering was made possible by funding support provided by a PSEG Foundation Neighborhood Partners grant and from EPA under an assistance agreement funded by the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Other event sponsors included NJ American Water, The Michaels Organization, a Friend of the Estuary, and Leading Light Wind.
You can see photos and watch sessions from the EJ Gathering through the PDE website.
STRONG COMMUNITIES: C2.2
