The Relationship Between Economic Inclusion and Environmental Factors: A Case Study in New Jersey - Equitable Impact (EquIP @ Kean)
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Bianca Daniels
CoPIs:
Alicia Anderson, Shelby Snow, Magaret Morse, William Rodas
College:
College of Business and Public Management
Major:
Public Administration
Faculty Research Advisor(s):
Bok Gyo Jeong
Abstract:
This paper investigates the relationship between environmental factors and economic inclusion activities, aiming to illustrate the connection between these two domains. Economic inclusion entails ensuring that all segments of society, particularly those marginalized economically or socially, have equitable access to market opportunities in various capacities such as employees, leaders, consumers, entrepreneurs, and community members. Achieving economic inclusion not only fosters sustainable economic development but also works towards reducing inequality.
Concurrently, environmental factors such as climate change, natural resource availability, and environmental degradation play pivotal roles in shaping economic outcomes and opportunities worldwide. In this research project, the qualitative correlation between environmental factors, including contaminated sites, and their impact on socioeconomic status across six counties in the state are further investigated. By reviewing existing literature, the research emphasizes the importance of understanding how environmental factors influence socioeconomic dynamics and efforts toward economic inclusion, stressing the need to address environmental justice concerns for equitable access to resources and opportunities.
Utilizing data from the EquIP Initiative by Kean University, the study examines six counties across North, Central, and South New Jersey, considering factors such as geographical location, population density, and economic inclusivity metrics. Employing a theoretical framework, the research analyzes the relationship between environmental factors like FEMA flood zones and known contaminated sites, and economic inclusion indicators sourced from Kean EquIP data. The findings provide valuable insights into this correlation, suggesting implications for public policy and theoretical understanding, and offering directions for future research in this area. Ultimately, the study underscores the importance of addressing environmental justice concerns to foster equitable economic opportunities across diverse regions within New Jersey.