Overcoming Environmental Adversity

Navigating Challenges in a Changing Climate

Imagine waking up to the relentless sound of rain and booming thunder, making you anxious about your problematic commute. But with bills looming, you heave a deep sigh, silence the alarm, and prepare for the day. As you step into the courtyard, you see neighbors and their dogs struggling through pools of water. When you reach your vehicle, you see the road submerged under a foot of water, and a wave of panic washes over you. Missing work isn’t an option. But with no other way to get there, panic sets in.

As weather patterns change, scenarios like this are increasingly common for many. The climate crisis will not affect everyone in Frederick County the same way. Extreme weather events have the largest impact on those who are least prepared for disasters. Minority, disabled, elderly, youth, and low-income populations in the County are more susceptible to heat-related stress and illness and less likely to be able to recover if their property is damaged or destroyed in a flood or other extreme event. These residents often lack the resources to adapt and respond to environmental hazards effectively, perpetuating cycles of hardship and inequality.

The Call For Environmental Justice

Efforts to identify environmental disparities, raise awareness, and address the root causes are called Environmental Justice. This work maintains that true progress toward sustainability must involve the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of racial, economic, social, physical, or other differences. The goal is for everyone to enjoy the same degree of protection from environmental and health hazards, engage in the civic decision-making process, and have a healthy community to live, learn, work, and play.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Frederick County hosts several census block groups—areas with populations ranging from 600 to 3,000 people—where environmental quality issues are prevalent. These areas are more likely to house communities of color, low-income families, and historically marginalized groups. For the residents living in these areas, the increased intensity of heat waves and storms caused by climate change aren’t just uncomfortable or inconvenient; they also pose real economic and personal risks.

The challenges are daunting, but there is hope to be found in community efforts. Individuals and organizations in Frederick County work tirelessly to raise awareness, push for policy changes, and build resilience for at-risk populations. Grassroots efforts and community advocacy are pivotal in driving meaningful change.

The Division of Energy and Environment has the expertise and motivation to support progress toward environmental justice in our community. We employ community engagement and feedback, census data, and screening tools to create better-informed policies and provide equitable access to resources and services. We are actively working to build partnerships that help us understand and meet the needs of the communities we serve.

Together, we can build thriving communities that are resilient in the face of environmental challenges and equitable for all.

Join the Movement

If you find environmental challenges in your neighborhood or know someone with adverse impacts to their housing, transportation, air quality, or similar issues, remember that every obstacle is an opportunity for growth. Take inspiration and join those around you who are working towards a more just and equitable future. Consider how you can contribute, whether through volunteering, advocating for policy change, or joining local initiatives. In the face of adversity, resilience becomes our greatest strength. It's about finding creative solutions, supporting one another, and refusing to accept the status quo.

DEE's Green Homes Program maintains that sustainability is for everyone. The program strives to engage more people in environmental action and ensure that sustainability initiatives are accessible and affordable for ALL Frederick County households.

The Green Homes Program has three core areas:

Green Partnerships: Community organizations that have aligned goals, as well as individual volunteers who want to get involved in environmental justice work, can partner with us to help make our community more resilient.
Green Homes Challenge: Households that want to increase their personal level of sustainability can join this program designed to inspire change, provide actions, measure progress, and recognize their efforts.
Green Compass: This program provides Community Navigators to assist residents in finding, understanding, and benefitting from local, state, and federal programs and incentives that can help improve their home environment, lower energy costs, and live more sustainably. Don’t know how or why to “go green?” We can help!

Embracing Change

As Frederick County grapples with the impacts of the climate crisis, let’s work together to be catalysts for change for everyone in our community. Join us in amplifying the voices of those most affected and creating solutions that are inclusive and sustainable. Each of us has the power to make a difference, starting with small actions in our daily lives and extending to broader advocacy efforts.

Envision a future where no one wakes up to flooded roads or faces the uncertainty of missed work and unpaid bills due to environmental hazards. Let's turn adversity into motivation and pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all residents of Frederick County. By working together, we can create a community where every individual can thrive!