Students Drive Solutions for Environmental Justice Through Video Challenge

The Environmental Justice (EJ) Video Challenge for Students, launched by the EPA in partnership with organizations like APHA and Groundwork USA, encouraged college students to address environmental inequities using publicly available data and tools. In Phase 1, students identified environmental justice concerns and proposed innovative solutions through video submissions, while Phase 2 focused on collaborating with community organizations to develop actionable strategies. Winning teams showcased solutions ranging from lead soil remediation in Santa Ana, California, to addressing flooding and toxic soil in the Eastwick community of Philadelphia, securing substantial funding for implementation and creating lasting community impacts.

The challenge’s top winners included the University of California, Irvine team, whose project with Orange County Environmental Justice (OCEJ) tackled lead contamination in soil using bioremediation techniques and community training. Meanwhile, the Eastwick team from the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University proposed a “land swap” strategy to relocate residents affected by flooding and toxic soil, while preserving community cohesion. These projects not only improved living conditions but also fostered local leadership, with initiatives like the Eastwick United Community Ambassador Program, which empowered young residents to advocate for environmental justice and sustainable development.

The challenge had far-reaching impacts, with students presenting their work at national conferences and inspiring career paths in environmental justice and federal service. By leveraging data, collaboration, and innovative strategies, the EJ Video Challenge highlighted the power of student-led initiatives in addressing environmental justice issues, setting an example for future community-based efforts to advance equity and sustainability.