The City of Seattle, through its Environmental Justice Fund, is providing increased support for sustainability initiatives with a total investment of $934,616. This funding will be distributed among 12 organizations to support local environmental projects. The projects, led primarily by communities disproportionately affected by climate change and environmental challenges, include efforts in climate adaptation, environmental education, and youth leadership development.
BIPOC, immigrant, refugee, low-income, youth, and elder populations are disproportionately affected by climate change. Extreme weather events, including heat waves and floods, as well as air pollution, have a greater impact on these groups. In the official announcement of the Environmental Justice Fund grants, Mayor Katie Wilson emphasized the importance of community-driven solutions.
One of the funded organizations, Sea Potential, works to reduce barriers that limit BIPOC youth from engaging with marine ecosystems and related career paths. Co-Founder Savannah Smith stated that support from Seattle’s Environmental Justice Fund will help create water-based learning experiences that strengthen connections between youth, the community, and local waterways, while introducing participants to marine science professionals.
A portion of the grant, $180,000, is designated for projects supporting the Duwamish Valley communities, which face significant environmental challenges. The South Park and Georgetown neighborhoods contend with industrial pollution, increased flood risks linked to climate factors, and disparities in income and employment opportunities. Additional information on the city’s initiatives in the Duwamish Valley is available on the Duwamish Valley Program webpage.
Kristina Pearson, Executive Director of Duwamish Tribal Services, noted that the funding supports local leadership, green jobs, and initiatives aligned with Duwamish values. The city worked with its Environmental Justice Committee, which includes six community members, to review grant applications and provide funding recommendations.
Managed by the Office of Sustainability and Environment (OSE), the Environmental Justice Fund aligns with the City’s Equity & Environment Agenda and is supported by revenue from the Payroll Expense Tax, which contributes to Seattle’s Green New Deal initiatives. Ximena Fonseca Morales, OSE’s Environmental Justice Fund Program Manager, stated that investing in community-led climate solutions is key to effective progress. The EJ Fund will soon open its next grant cycle, with updates available through the OSE newsletter.
