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An urgent and timely story of the contentious politics of incorporating environmental justice into global climate change policy Although the science of climate change is clear, policy decisions about how to respond to its effects remain contentious. Even when such decisions claim to be guided by objective knowledge, they are made and implemented through political institutions and relationships-and all the competing interests and power struggles that this implies. Michael Méndez tells a timely story of people, place, and power in the context of climate change and inequality. He explores the perspectives and influence low income people of color bring to their advocacy work on climate change. In California, activist groups have galvanized behind issues such as air pollution, poverty alleviation, and green jobs to advance equitable climate solutions at the local, state, and global levels. Arguing that environmental protection and improving public health are inextricably linked, Mendez contends that we must incorporate local knowledge, culture, and history into policymaking to fully address the global complexities of climate change and the real threats facing our local communities.

At the center of demands for cleaner air, water, and soil in communities disproportionately impacted by environmental hazards, are often cities and counties. Local jurisdictions are uniquely positioned to shape policies and engage with residents in processes that can transform land-use patterns that have negatively impacted low-income, people of color communities. This study assesses the approaches to environmental justice (EJ) that California local jurisdictions with high levels of cumulative environmental health impact are developing in their general plans, under Senate Bill 1000. Results indicate positive outcomes such as the establishment of EJ advisory committees. However, findings also underscore challenges such as a lack of political support from elected officials and minimal resources to implement measures. We find that most general plans include EJ considerations, however, there are concerns regarding how their implementation will unfold. We provide practice-based recommendations to assist planners across the nation working to develop effective EJ considerations.