environmental justice in my community

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Environmental Justice in My Community Samantha Parker/ Black Youth Leadership Development Institute/ Savannah, Georgia 2015 National Environmental Justice Conference Youth/ Emerging Leaders Summit

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National Environmental Justice Conference and Training Program Presentation, March 11, 2015

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Environmental Justice in My Community

Environmental Justice in My Community Samantha Parker/ Black Youth Leadership Development Institute/ Savannah, Georgia 2015 National Environmental Justice Conference Youth/ Emerging Leaders Summit

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Preparing Environmental Justice Communities to Respond to Climate ChangeADVANTAGES Savannah, Georgia has a strong group of environmentalists thats aware of the changes likely to occur in our community. These environmentalist are informing the citizens to help them be prepared for disaster. Environmentalist and the Local Emergency Planning Committee are having conversations and making preparations for our community. DISADVANTAGES Savannah, Georgia is located on the coast and is threatened by the rising of sea level which is expected to be one of the effects of climate change. Savannah is deepening the Savannah River. Savannahs rich history and treasures are located in the downtown area near the river.

Toxins in My Community

Facts About the Environmental Toxins in My Community Savannah River ranks 3rd most polluted river in the nation.These industries dump 5 million pounds of toxic waste into the Savannah River every year.1.4 million people rely on this river for water everyday.

Pollution In Our Backyards

HUDSON HILLHudson Hill is a predominately African American community centrally located between 10- 15 polluting companies.In 2013, these companies released over 25 different chemicals was released in this particular area.

Lead Exposure & Aggressive Behavior

CorrelationThe Chinese says that the liver is the seat of anger.When lead is present in the body, the first place affected by lead is the liver.

Where is Lead Found???Lead maybe present in the following places/ objects: Paint Toys Air Soil WaterGasoline Pipes Batteries Cosmetics

Risk of Lead Exposure Behavior/ Anger ProblemsDeath Comas learning problemsLower IQ and Seizures HyperactivitySlowed growthHearing ProblemsAnemia

Levels The Standard Level of Lead being harmful to an individual is 10 or greater!!!Studies today shows that any level of Lead found in the human body is harmful to an individual.

Lead in My Community The Environmental Protection Division conducted test at a facility near an elementary school in my community. As a result of those test, lead and arsenic was found. That year, tests were conducted in that school. A large amount of lead and arsenic was found in the building and on the playground utilized for recess. Environmentalist demanded lead testing for the students! Chatham County refused to offer on-site testing. Instead, they provided free testing for children at the Health Department which was located on the opposite side of the city. Justice was yet not served because many of the parents in that community did not have transportation and were unable to get tested.

Lead Poison in Children SymptomsNausea Constipation Seizures Headaches ComaLead Poisoning in Children has been linked to diabetes,Hypertension, heart failure, cancer, brain damage, kidneydamage.

Contact Information Samantha Parker [email protected] Savannah, Georgia Harambee House, INC/ Citizens for Environmental JusticeBlack Youth Leadership Development Institute, Youth Coordinator