Earlier versions of this article, audio news cast and videos were originally published in State Broadcast News, a content partner with South Jersey Climate News.
Environmental justice advocates, organized by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (NJLCV) kicked off a series of statewide presentations Camden in what the League called an effort “to spark conversation around the environmental, health, and economic future of the Garden State.”
Speakers at the Camden event focused on the urgent need for climate action, environmental justice, and community resilience as Camden faces worsening floods, poor air quality, extreme heat, and public health threats due to climate change.
“In Camden, we see firsthand how the climate crisis is not a distant threat but a daily reality. From extreme heat and flooding to poor air quality, communities are already feeling the effects, especially low-income families and communities of color,” said Luke Pavlov, campaigns manager, NJLCV, who chaired the meeting. “That’s why transitioning to clean, renewable energy is not just about protecting the planet—it’s about protecting our neighbors, improving public health, and creating good local jobs. Camden deserves a clean energy future that leaves no one behind.”
Former Camden council member Shaneka Boucher opened the program with remarks about the importance of seeking environmental justice for Camden residents and other beleaguered social justice communities. (You can watch the full video in the player below.)
Olivia Carpenter Glenn of Baobab-Blossom Consulting gave an overview of green and health cities program, which aims to alleviate heat islands and flooding. (You can watch the full video in the player below.)
Jon Compton, executive director of the Camden-based Center for Environmental Transformation, discussed the specific environmental issues facing Camden and reviewed advocates’ efforts to repair some of the environmental risks stemming from heavy industrial activity near Camden’s poorest neighborhoods.
And Maggie Broughton discussed the Eastern Environmental Law Center’s recently filed lawsuit that aims aim to compel the Department of Environmental Protection to fulfill its statutory obligation to regulate facilities like EMR under solid waste law and the Environmental Rights Act to protect all New Jersey residents equally. (You can watch the Jon Compton and Maggie Broughton presentations in the player below.)
For full coverage of the event, visit State Broadcast News