community-Led, Environmental Justice for over 30 years.
#StopdumpingonNewark
Ironbound Justice is fighting for environmental justice in our neighborhood. This means fighting for our right to clean land, air and water - regardless of race, income, or zipcode. For over 30 years we've committed to continuing co-creating a just future led by our community; an overburdened community at the frontline of climate change. Our neighborhood faces severe environmental injustices, including pollution from NJ’s largest garbage incinerator, 3 existing power plants (with the threat of a 4th), a toxic legacy of agent orange manufacturing resulting in a 17 mile super fund site, and more.
But we're not backing down. Ironbound justice advocates for stronger environmental policies to protect our community's health and safety. We've already scored significant victories against proposed incinerators (we stopped the sludge) and corporate projects like Amazon's air hub. Our work has even led to the passing of the strongest environmental justice law in the country.
We envision a future where renewable energy sources replace fossil fuels and where composting becomes the norm. Through community action and collaboration, we're working towards a healthier, more equitable future for everyone.
Join us in the fight for clean air, land, and water. Together, we can realize a just future in which everyone has the right to environmental justice!
CLEAN Air
1 in 4 children in Newark will develop asthma - this is 3x higher than the national average. We are leaders in the fight against detrimental environmental practices and the building of facilities that contribute to air pollution in Newark and the surrounding areas.
CLEAN land
Newark is home to 24 of the 115 Superfund sites listed by NJDEP as of December 2023. Superfund sites are locations polluted with hazardous materials. Every day we are fighting for cleaner, safer land.
HOUSING Justice
78% of Newark’s residents are renters. With developers and institutional investors purchasing millions in real estate throughout the city, we are leading the movement for fair housing and renters’ rights.
CLEAN ENERGY
As of 2021, Newark, NJ, has installed over 30 megawatts of solar capacity, but we need the city to do more. Renewable energy is beneficial to Newark as it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lowers electricity costs for residents, and creates local jobs in the clean energy sector, fostering a healthier and more sustainable community.
CLEAN water
17 miles of toxic, contaminated water in the Passaic River will take an estimated 8 to 9 years to clean up. We’re working to improve Newark’s water quality by holding polluters accountable and stopping more damage in the future.
take an ej tour with us!
Do you want to learn more about the environment and the ways we’re fighting to make Newark a healthier, safer place? Take an Environmental Justice Tour with us! It’s perfect for individuals, groups, and student groups to get a closer look at what’s happening in the communities of this great city.
Housing Justice
We believe as a matter of right that everyone should have access to affordable, decent housing. However, every day this is getting more challenging in our communities.
Since Ironbound has attracted housing development even in the city’s lean years, it has been clear to us that if Newark is to gentrify and displace residents in the process, this will occur in Ironbound first.
Down bottom Farms
Urban Agriculture, Education & Community