Connecticut Coalition for Environmental Justice

CARE Grant in Bridgeport!

Purpose: The purpose of the project is to work with Bridgeport residents and stakeholder groups, with technical assistance from EPA, to develop a comprehensive understanding of the many sources of risk from toxics and environmental pollutants, set priorities for pollution reduction, and foster the political will to take action to reduce the exposure of residents to these toxics and pollutants.

The Fairfield County Environmental Justice Network has invited various stakeholders from around the city to join in examining the issues of multiple pollutants and toxins in Bridgeport. Multiple pollutants and toxins combine to place a large burden on the health of the environment and the health of Bridgeport residents. According to Scorecard.org, Fairfield County ranked in the top 10% of dirtiest counties for air releases of recognizeddevelopmental toxicants and for air releases of recognized carcinogens (scorecard.org, 2002). The county was also listed in the top 20% for the highest cancer risk scores due to air and water releases. Lastly, Fairfield County has almost twice the density of pollution sources for criteria air pollution compared to the state (0.26 per square mile vs. 0.14 for all of Connecticut). It is critical to the future of Bridgeport, as a community, that the true extent of environmental hazards are understood and that action is taken to reduce their levels.

For more information call the FCEJN office: (203) 362-1138