Youth Empowerment for Environmental Justice

Abstract

Woodsmoke pollution is an environmental justice issue for youth living in certain Pacific Northwest cities. Little is understood about how youth may be empowered to address woodsmoke issues in their communities. In this study, I examined youth empowerment in a citizen science study on woodsmoke, using Photovoice methodology. Ten diverse youth collected and analyzed indoor air samples and photos, then presented their findings to the community and policy makers. Entrance and exit surveys revealed an increased sense of empowerment to take action on woodsmoke pollution. Youth also expressed increased optimism and a resolve to become scientists and to combat environmental injustices.