HUD strives to pursue the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of low-income, minority, Tribal and indigenous communities during the development, implementation and enforcement of HUD regulations and policies. The Department defines environmental justice (EJ) as “investing in environmental improvements, remedying past environmental inequities, and otherwise developing, implementing, and enforcing laws and policies in a manner that advances environmental equity and provides meaningful involvement for people and communities that have been environmentally underserved or overburdened, such as Black and Brown communities, indigenous groups, and individuals with disabilities”.  HUD’s leadership is committed to creating strong, sustainable, and inclusive communities, which is intrinsic to HUD’s mission and the concept of EJ at the Department.

HUD will advance its efforts to consider EJ by strengthening climate resilience and energy efficiency, promoting environmental justice across the Department, and recognizing housing’s role as essential to health. Outlined in HUD’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan is the objective to advance sustainable communities by investing in climate resilience and carbon reduction, strengthening environmental justice across HUD programs, and expanding the consideration of public health in housing. These objectives are critical elements for accomplishing HUD’s mission.

Learn more about the development of the Department’s 2024-2028 Environmental Justice Strategic Plan or visit the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page.

Content current as of April 15, 2024.