2018 Urban Research Award: Justice in Urban Climate Mitigation

Earth & Environment Associate Professor Anne Short seeks to examine climate action plans in 24 cities across the United States to determine if and how they integrate environmental justice into their goals. Professor Short undertakes this project in order to add to empirical evidence—of which there is little—examining justice in the context of urban climate actions in order to provide a foundation for developing guidance documents to inform the creation of just climate actions in American cities. While her research will encompass the work done in 24 cities, she will focus intensively on Portland, OR.

Professor Short’s research will examine

• if and how justice is articulated and integrated in climate action plans
• if participation in urban sustainability networks is linked to greater attention to justice in climate mitigation
• the evolution and implementation of just climate mitigation

Urban climate mitigation activities shift energy access and pricing, alter transportation systems, and impact other aspects of city life, all of which have direct and indirect implications for vulnerable populations and the distribution of city resources. Cities with justice-oriented climate action plans specifically address the ways in which their efforts may negatively impact vulnerable populations and introduce safeguards to mitigate those impacts.

Her research will contribute to the Carbon Free Boston project report, which will be disseminated to the Green Ribbon Commission as well as the Carbon Neutral Cities Alliance and C40 network.

View more projects funded through our Early Stage Urban Research Awards