The Environmental Justice Leadership Lab (EJLL) is a community-centered approach to tackling environmental justice issues related to air quality. The EJLL is a space for residents to cultivate a deeper understanding of the social and environmental conditions that inform environmental justice including systemic racism. The EJLL is for community members and leaders who want to increase their understanding of the various environmental agencies responsible for air quality and then access resources for advocating for clean air in the Houston area.
The EJLL includes three options: Training, Research, and Resources.
Training
TSU Environmental Leadership Certificate Program (CELP)
Air Alliance Houston has partnered up with TSU to offer this certificate program.
“The TSU Environmental Leadership Certificate Program is designed for residents in the Houston region who seek training in community-based environmental leadership. We are looking for people interested in being or becoming leaders in community-based work, such as members of civic groups, HOA members, places of worship and community organizations or individuals. The program covers a variety of topics, including environmental policy, flood risk, community mapping, and how to communicate to public officials. The certificate training program is offered in partnership with TSU’s Department of Urban Planning and Environmental Policy.”
Environmental Justice Engagement
Check out our training materials and technical assistance documentation below to learn more about getting involved with environmental justice work.Some pollutants may be both primary and secondary. Formaldehyde, for instance, may be emitted directly from a source and may also be formed by secondary reactions of certain hydrocarbons.
If you have questions about our guides or would like assistance with actions such as writing comments, contacting your elected officials, challenging a permit, or navigating the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), please do not hesitate to contact us. Send an email to [email protected]. Se habla Español.
Air Alliance Houston is also available for virtual and in-person training sessions. We would love to talk to your community/organization about your training needs and/or attend your events to provide training. Get in touch with us! Send an email to [email protected] Se habla Español.
Research
Our data-driven and action-oriented research at Air Alliance Houston deals with air quality issues across the Houston region. Through community-focused studies, Health Impact Assessments, maps, and the data we collect via our community air monitoring network, we seek to uplift communities most impacted by pollution and other health hazards with information to protect their health and advocate for change.
These maps and reports from us and other organizations below are open and accessible to the public, and we encourage you to take a look through the materials below. You can use this information to:
- Validate your concerns about air quality with data
- Empower yourself to take action
- Present your concerns to your elected representatives
- Share with those in your community
Resources
Do you have concerns about air pollution, flaring, and other air quality issues in your community? Please contact us at Air Alliance Houston.
Are you seeking representation or legal assistance on environmental issues?
- Contact Lone Star Legal Aid to find out if you qualify for free legal services. Income restrictions apply.
- Use the State Bar of Texas search tool to look for a lawyer – How to Find a Lawyer
Do you have concerns about sewage overflows or other water quality issues in your community? Contact:
Do you need more information about disaster relief following hurricanes and flooding? Contact:
- West Street Recovery
- HOME Coalition – Houston Organizing Movement for Equity
- Southerly Disaster Glossary
Do you have questions about affordable housing or rental assistance? Contact:
Are you or someone you know facing injustices at work? Contact:
Know your rights and get help with navigating civic involvement. For immigration and voting rights issues, contact:
Are you looking for public health and healthcare services?
- The Texas Local Public Health Organization directory lists local health departments, public health districts, and community health centers and clinics throughout Texas. View the directory.
EJ Resources from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Federal Interagency Working Group on Environmental Justice (EJ IWG)
Learn how to apply for grants for your community efforts
EPA Environmental Justice Small Grants Tutorial
The EPA administers the Environmental Justice Small Grants program, which awards grants that support community-driven projects designed to engage, educate, and empower communities to better understand local environmental and public health issues and develop strategies for addressing those issues. This tutorial provides an overview of grant eligibility, types of projects, application criteria, tips, and advice.
Houston LISC Small Grants
The Houston office of the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) offers small grant opportunities to support community-led projects, activities, and campaigns that develop civic engagement, community relationship building, and improve quality of life. Applications are typically accepted in the first quarter of the year until April 15th or until funding has been depleted.
Learn about the Clean Air Act (CAA)
National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS 101) Webinars for Communities
This webinar provides an overview of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) established by the EPA as required under the Clean Air Act. It highlights standards set for the following six common air pollutants: particulate matter, ozone, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide and lead. The webinar also provides tools and resources that focus on other air quality and public health issues.