The public can comment on the first draft Equity and Environmental Justice Strategy prepared by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries that looks to address equity and environmental justice.
Four webinars on the strategy will be held, during which comments will be accepted. Additional in-person meetings and opportunities to phone and submit comments online through Aug. 19 will be shared as those plans are finalized, according to a May 4 NOAA Fisheries release.
“NOAA Fisheries is focused on serving all communities more equitably and effectively, and this strategy will provide the framework to do just that,” Assistant Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere Janet Coit said, according to the release.
The strategies goals include prioritizing identification, equitable treatment and meaningful involvement of underserved communities; providing equitable delivery of services; and prioritizing equity and environmental justice in the agency’s mandates and mission, the release said.
“We are committed to advancing equity and environmental justice, including equal treatment, opportunities and environmental benefits for all people and communities, while building on continuing efforts and partnerships with underserved and underrepresented communities,” Coit said in the release.
Sam Rauch, NOAA Fisheries deputy assistant administrator for regulatory programs, said while they are making progress on equity and environmental justice, they know more must be done to embed equity and environmental justice into day-to-day efforts. By doing this, they can assure more equitable stewardship of the nation’s ocean resources, the release reported.
