Environment & Social Justice

Recognizing that the environment, economics, and social justice intersect and impact our perspectives of and experiences in the world, Colorado State University strives to intentionally develop academic programs, research projects, operations initiatives, and engagement campaigns that acknowledge and address this intersectionality.

Here are just a few examples of how the environment, economics, and social justice intersect on a daily basis:

• Low income communities are more likely to be located near polluting facilities and landfills;
• People of color are more likely to live in low income communities and suffer from adverse health effects related to pollution, like asthma and attention deficit disorder;
• Whole and organic foods are typically more expensive than highly processed and fast foods, limiting access to nutritious and sustainable diets;
• Low income students struggle with food insecurity and first generation students and students of color are more likely to experience food insecurity;
• Lack of affordable housing and lack of public transportation can create hardships for low income students and employees who face long commutes and struggle to secure safe and affordable housing