A Systems Approach for Addressing Over 200 Years of Environmental Injustice with Community-Driven Monitoring, a Participatory Study in Alsen, LA

This study develops a novel systems framework for advancing environmental justice in Alsen, Louisiana by addressing multiple environmental challenges with a specific focus on mitigation of pollution from stormwater runoff, air emissions, and floodwater. Employing smart technologies, earth science, and geospatial analytics, the framework aims to enhance public health by reducing exposure to environmental pollutants and facilitating improved emergency responsiveness. It integrates historical data, satellite imagery, and real-time sensor readings from floods and air quality monitors to support participatory risk management and decision making. The systems approach is expected to reduce health-related costs through better environmental health monitoring and proactive management of pollution. The framework promotes the use of accessible, cost-effective technologies that enable small, economically constrained communities to significantly mitigate pollution impacts. Anticipated outcomes from the application of this framework include improved health metrics and enhanced resilience to climate-related challenges, offering a scalable solution for similar communities globally facing environmental injustices.