Geothermal/Environmental Justice

From Open Energy Information

Geothermal Environmental Justice

Environmental Justice
Present, Potentially Affected

The EPA defines Environmental Justice as, “The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with the respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations and policies.” The EPA strives to promote equality in the decision-making process so every individual can be protected from environmental and health hazards caused by land development and industries. Executive Order 12898 outlines best practices to businesses and rights to all peoples of the US. Section 6-606 explicitly includes Native American tribes and indigenous peoples. Environmental Protection Agency-Environmental Justice

Environmental Justice Impacts & Mitigation

Since geothermal has no emissions, impacts to environmental justice is limited. Barriers of language, lack of education, representation, and public services inhibit community involvement, however breaking these down will result in higher support for the project. An infringement of environmental justice is when a company knows the community’s values and takes advantage of them to risk human health. Office of Tribal Energy and Economic Development-Environmental Justice Mitigation Measures