The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) on January 14 released the final version of its Climate Equity Framework, which lays out specific actions for CDPHE to guide the implementation of the state’s ambitious air quality and climate policies and programs to advance equity and environmental justice.
CDPHE worked closely with environmental justice organizations, disproportionately impacted community members, and other members of the public to craft the framework. An advisory committee provided expertise and feedback, and more than 600 people participated in two listening sessions in English and Spanish to share their thoughts.
The framework offers a number of concrete recommendations that will shape state policymaking into the future, including ensuring opportunities for public participation and input in climate change policymaking through straightforward engagement with communities, at convenient times and locations for members of the public.
“Colorado is committed to living up to the promise of climate equity,” said Shaun McGrath, director of environmental health and protection at CDPHE. “We know that our climate change policies have to be effective, scientifically rigorous, and drafted based on equity principles. The final version of our Climate Equity Framework is a crucial step in this process to advance environmental justice.”
To support the implementation of this framework, CDPHE has developed the Climate Equity Data Viewer, which visually presents data about the disproportionate impacts of climate change and other environmental concerns.
More information is available here.
