Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler’s Remarks to NEJAC

Summary

In her first address as Acting Administrator, the speaker expresses gratitude for the dedication of colleagues at the EPA, emphasizing the importance of environmental justice as the agency celebrates the 25th anniversary of its Office of Environmental Justice. Highlighting the need for improved risk communication, particularly for vulnerable communities, she reflects on past shortcomings in handling environmental crises. The speaker acknowledges retiring NEJAC members for their service and encourages collaboration in enhancing the agency's outreach efforts. She concludes with hope for productive discussions and impactful recommendations during the meeting.

Takeaways

• 🎉 The Acting Administrator expresses appreciation for the dedication of colleagues in the EPA's mission.
• 📅 The 25th anniversary of the EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice highlights a commitment to fair treatment in environmental issues.
• 🌍 NEJAC plays a crucial role in advising the EPA on improving environmental justice efforts.
• 🔄 The Office of Environmental Justice has been moved to the Office of Policy to enhance integration of environmental justice work.
• 🗣️ There is a need for better risk communication to inform the public about environmental and health risks.
• ⚖️ Vulnerable communities are disproportionately affected by poor risk communication.
• ⏳ Past failures in risk communication, such as in Flint and Colorado, underscore the need for improvement.
• 🛠️ The Office of Environmental Justice is working to incorporate risk communication into its initiatives.
• 🤝 Recognition is given to retiring NEJAC members for their years of service.
• 📈 The Acting Administrator looks forward to recommendations from NEJAC to enhance risk communication and environmental justice.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the Acting Administrator's speech?

The speech expresses appreciation for the work of colleagues and emphasizes the importance of environmental justice.

What milestone did the EPA celebrate this past fall?

The EPA celebrated the 25th anniversary of its Office of Environmental Justice.

How does the EPA define environmental justice?

Environmental justice is defined as the fair treatment and involvement of all people in environmental issues, regardless of race, color, national origin, or income.

What role does NEJAC play in the EPA's efforts?

NEJAC provides advice, feedback, and recommendations to EPA Administrators for improving environmental justice efforts.

What recent organizational change was mentioned regarding the Office of Environmental Justice?

The Office of Environmental Justice was moved into the Office of Policy to enhance its integration and effectiveness.

What area does the Acting Administrator identify as needing improvement?

Risk communication is identified as a critical area for improvement in conveying environmental and public health risks.

Why is effective risk communication particularly important?

Effective risk communication is crucial as it disproportionately impacts vulnerable and disadvantaged communities.

What past incidents does the Administrator reference to illustrate communication failures?

The Administrator references the Gold King Mine incident in Colorado, the Kanawha River in West Virginia, and the Flint, Michigan water crisis.

What upcoming initiative is mentioned regarding risk communication?

The Office of Environmental Justice is working to incorporate risk communication into its efforts, particularly through the Superfund Task Force.

Who did the Acting Administrator recognize at the end of the speech?

The Administrator recognized and celebrated retiring NEJAC members for their years of service to the Agency and the public.