Equity and Justice

Marginalized communities are disproportionately affected by environmental problems, yet they are frequently excluded from decisions that shape the world around them.

Gund researchers are searching for environmental solutions to address inequities and injustices based on socio-demographic factors including race, gender, and income.

These efforts intersect closely with our other signature research themes – climate solutions, sustainable agriculture, health and well-being, and resilient communities.

Select Projects

A Vermont youth participates in the Fall STEM Ambassadors Showcase

STEM curriculum in Jackson, MS

Gund Faculty Fellows Julia Perdrial and Leon Walls partnered with faculty at Jackson State University and local teachers in Jackson, Mississippi to develop STEM teacher education at the nexus of water, climate change and environmental racism that centers the community and Black perspectives.
two large trees in a forest

Nature loss has disproportionate impacts in U.S.

In the first national study exploring unequal impacts on U.S. society of projected declines in nature, and its benefits, Gund researchers used advanced modeling and found when nature vanishes, people of color and low-income Americans disproportionally lose critical benefits.
Boat on water

Consequences of conservation efforts

Gund reserachers joined international colleagues to show how some efforts to preserve or rewild natural habitats are shifting productive landscapes to other parts of the world—and this could drive an even steeper decline in the planet’s species.

Learn About Other Gund Research Themes