On Monday January 13th, 2020 the Colorado Water Quality Control Commission (WQCC) in a new policy resolution indicated their intent to ensure that the principles of Environmental Justice are considered in all decision-making processes by the commission moving forward. This landmark effort to foster the health, welfare, and safety of all inhabitants of the state of Colorado is a step in the right direction in ensuring environmental protection for all citizens.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines Environmental Justice as the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. Per the EPA, this goal will be achieved when everyone enjoys:a. the same degree of protection from environmental and health hazards, and b. equal access to the decision-making process to have a healthy environment in which to live, learn, and work.
As members of the River Watch team we are proud of this intentional action by the WQCC who use River Watch data to make policy decisions which impact our state.