S.A.F.E. Diversity Communities’ Environmental & Climate Justice Committee is steadfast in its advocacy for clean water and air for the community. They have recently focused on identifying toxic areas, including a North Houston senior residential property near hazardous underground tanks. The residents voiced their concerns to Dr. Thelma Scott, the Founder/Executive Director, recounting health issues such as headaches and potential gas inhalation, which sadly led to the death of a previously healthy senior. Other residents have reported illnesses they believe began after moving to the area, which raises concerns about the impact of Houston’s significant pollution resulting from industrial activities and urbanization.

A 2021 report by Environment Texas highlighted numerous Clean Water Act violations by industrial facilities in Houston, which discharge pollutants like heavy metals and hazardous chemicals into local waterways. Furthermore, the EPA’s Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) program noted that over 35 million pounds of toxic chemicals were released into the air by Houston facilities in 2020. The city and numerous refineries and chemical plants contribute significantly to air pollution, which poses a severe risk to vulnerable populations, particularly seniors.

In a well-maintained community, Dr. Scott identified hidden storage tanks dating back to the 1960s, located from Cypress Creek Pkwy (1960), Kuykendahl/Ella Blvd. S.A.F.E. Diversity Communities plans to engage the community through interviews, surveys, and educational outreach to inform the local residents in the area about the environmental risks associated with these storage tanks. The potentially affected zip codes include 77066, 77068, 77069, 77014 and 77090. This area also hosts new home constructions, a rehab center for disabilities, parks, an elementary school, and various businesses. Bammel and environmental issues, including a high population of people of color, low-income disparity, housing burdens, and lack of health insurance, compound the problem.

S.A.F.E. Diversity Communities has actively voiced their concerns at various levels, including Washington D.C. and Austin, highlighting issues of industrial pollution and improper storage of contaminants. The organization, led by Dr. Thelma Scott and Dr. Sandra Scott, who is the Environmental Justice and Equity Coordinator for the organization, has broadened its mission to include environmental equity and justice. Their collaboration with the Permian Gulf Coalition of Organizations and engagement with activists like Jane Fonda showcases their commitment to these causes.

Despite being promoted as a cleaner alternative, CNG environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions and ecosystem disruption, remain significant. Effective mitigation and regulatory frameworks are crucial for minimizing these impacts.  A collaborative effort involving public health officials, regulatory agencies, industry representatives, and community organizations is essential to raise awareness and protect residents and health. S.A.F.E.'s dedication to environmental and climate justice, along with their efforts to support families and communities, underscores their commitment to fostering positive change and promoting sustainable development.

Visit Safe Diversity Communities for more information.