The Climate Justice team is focused on helping the Grand Rapids community understand and navigate the impacts of climate change. With a growing number of extreme weather events and rising energy costs, our goal is to reduce the harm done by climate change and systemic racism while advocating for sustainability across the city. For example, systemic racism and redlining have been exploited to create an environment that exposes vulnerable communities to more pollution, toxic sites, and contaminated water sources. This results in whole communities of vulnerable people at risk of developing chronic, life-altering health disparities.
Using an environmental justice lens, we intend to hold our local and municipal systems accountable for implementing green infrastructure, specifically in BIPOC neighborhoods, allowing for restoration & regeneration for those who need it most. It is well past the time for transparency, regulation, equitable development, and redistribution of funds.
Our climate and environmental justice work focuses on local impacts, experience, and inequitable vulnerabilities and amplifies the importance of community voice. Rooted in our commitment to collective action and community practice, we’ve created this video to empower you with knowledge about the challenges and solutions we face. We invite you to watch, share, and join us in the movement for environmental justice, amplifying the voices of those most impacted by climate change.
We believe all people should have access to clean and affordable energy and Michiganders pay higher energy rates than the national average. We advocate for energy justice to put an end to the rising rates and use of fossil fuels that disproportionately impact our communities of color. Our statewide energy providers and corporations alike are responsible for the hardships caused by climate change, and our goal is to hold them to a higher standard. We deserve clean energy!
If you would like to get involved in this work, contact Sergio: sergio@uccgr.org
From the materials that haulers pick up from our homes to the waste that makes it into our precious streams and rivers, our team advocates to ensure that our municipalities are investing in innovative practices that benefit every person in Grand Rapids. By working in collaboration with the community, local businesses, and partnering organizations across the county, our goal is to help equip our city with effective and sustainable solutions. We deserve clean land and water!
If you would like to get involved in this work, contact Erica: erica@uccgr.org
The concentration of large industry and highway systems in Grand Rapids leave residents with varying air quality across the city. Many people are left with unhealthy air quality for over 25% of the year and these neighborhoods are considered to be neighborhoods of color that have been historically underserved. Our team works to advocate for stricter enforcement of truck traffic and the industry, which are largely responsible for the air quality burden in these neighborhoods. We deserve clean air!
If you would like to get involved in this work, contact Nancy: nancy@uccgr.org
Hosted by passionate Climate Justice Organizers, Nancy Morales and Erica Bouldin, the Green Rapids Podcast dives deep into the intersection of social issues and climate change, focusing on how these challenges impact the Grand Rapids community. Born from a desire to connect local residents with environmental leaders and actionable solutions, this podcast brings listeners along on a learning journey that is both insightful and inspiring.
Whether you're curious about the latest environmental initiatives in Grand Rapids or seeking ways to get involved, Nancy and Erica offer a blend of lively discussions and expert interviews that make complex topics accessible and relevant to everyday life. Tune in weekly to explore the power of community-driven climate action and discover how you can contribute to a more just and sustainable future.
Lean more on the Grand Rapids Podcast website. You can listen now on the following platforms:
In the heart of Grand Rapids, Climate Café GR offers a welcoming space for open conversations about the emotional and psychological impacts of climate change. Co-facilitated by Nancy Morales from our Environmental Justice team and local climate justice organizer Nate Rauh-Bieri, these gatherings allow participants to connect deeply, share their experiences, and find solace in a supportive community.
Rooted in inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives, Climate Café GR is a unique opportunity to engage with others who share your concerns about our changing environment. Feel free to join us at the next gathering!
SHRPN is a local coalition that advocates for stricter enforcement of truck traffic that impacts residents in the Roosevelt Park Neighborhood. They are working in collaboration with organizations across the city to build collective support and awareness.
Learn More
This statewide organization advocates for environmental justice through a combination of grass-roots organizing and grass-roots lobbying. They fight for clean energy affordability, safe water, and clean air, among other related policies. Nancy participates as a Steering Committee Member.
Learn More
GRCC is a local organization whose main focus is mobilizing collective power to ensure equitable access to a clean, healthy, just, and livable community and climate. They are a growing coalition of individuals, community groups, neighborhood associations, nonprofits, faith groups, businesses, and educational institutions focused on sustainable solutions.
Learn More
