The difference between the ocean perspective and the land perspective
abuschengWhat do you think is the biggest difference between the ocean perspective and the land perspective?
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rramosThe first point that peaked my interest is when Dr. Nicky Sheats brought up the real world example of a powerplant that was placed in the Ironbound District. It's an example of how government standards don't reflect or align with individual standards. I thought this was interesting to see how the people didn't have their due justice in deciding to have a polluting plant in their neighborhood. The other fact that caught my eye is that Newark zoning laws, previous to being updated in 2012, had been grandfathered in since 1954. This goes to show the complete lack of awareness for public health that has resided in New Jersey's History. The last point that truly shaped this article is how steps were being taken to prevent environmental justice issues. Commercial and Industrial developers have to go through the following process when proposing for a building: "
- Reference the city’s ERI and prepare a checklist of pollutants
- Submit checklist and development application to the city
- Checklist goes to the Environmental Commission
- Checklist goes to the Planning or Zoning Board (where appropriate)
The public has full access to this checklist to weigh in on it and make their voices heard."
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rramosThe policy is to have stronger land use and environmental rules on a local level. It aims to mitigate use of pollutants, and give careful attention to low-income, minority citizens as to not pollute their communities.