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WE ACT For Environmental Justice Studying Heat Disparities in NYC Communities

Summary

WE ACT for Environmental Justice is addressing heat disparities in New York City, where heat kills around 350 people annually, disproportionately affecting Black residents. The organization highlights the link between current heat-vulnerable neighborhoods and those historically redlined. Collaborating with the city, WE ACT developed the Heat Vulnerability Index, revealing the impact of factors like tree coverage and income on neighborhood temperatures. Advocates are pushing for policies to lower the activation threshold for cooling centers and ensure all apartments have air conditioning. WE ACT also offers free environmental justice classes to educate the community on these issues.

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April 4, 2025
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