your rights to clean air

As part of the Ironbound Community Corporation (ICC), Ironbound Justice is deeply committed to improving Newark's air quality, especially considering the city's challenges in this regard. According to recent statistics from the American Lung Association's "State of the Air" report for 2021, Newark was ranked as the 13th most polluted city in the United States for short-term particle pollution. This highlights the urgent need for action, and ICC is leading the charge.

We're not just sitting idly by; we're actively engaging the community and advocating for policies that prioritize clean air. Through partnerships with local residents, businesses, and government agencies, we're implementing strategies to reduce air pollution and its harmful effects on public health. This includes initiatives such as promoting renewable energy sources, advocating for stricter emission standards, and conducting outreach and education to raise awareness about air quality issues. Together, we're working towards a cleaner, healthier future for Newark and its residents.

 how we’re fighting

  • We conduct thorough monitoring of facilities emitting pollutants into the air.

  • We keep a vigilant eye on incinerators, serving as watchdogs for harmful violations committed. Check out njdirtysecret.com to learn more about the dirty practice of incineration (aka burning trash) in NJ.

  • We advocate for stricter regulations and challenge any policy loopholes set by the EPA concerning incinerators.

  • We led the country by fighting for the development and implementation of the NJ Environmental Justice Law SB232 (dep.nj.gov/ej/law/), ensuring that communities disproportionately affected by pollution are protected and empowered. We closely monitor the enforcement and implementation of the NJ Environmental Justice Law, ensuring that its provisions are upheld and communities receive the protection they deserve.

  • We empower communities by educating them on how to utilize the Environmental Justice Law, providing resources and guidance on reporting violations and advocating for their rights. Additionally, we offer education on monitoring emission levels related to odors through channels like the WARNDEP hotline (1-877-927-6337), and we raise awareness about the importance of air quality for public health.