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Environmental Health Disparities in Vermont
Selle, Julia
Selle, Julia
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Abstract
Vermont is one of eight states in the United States without an environmental justice policy. In order to help inform an environmental justice policy for Vermont, this research examined the self-reported environmental and health experiences of Vermont residents by gender, race, income, and residence. 569 surveys were collected throughout the summer of 2019 through door-to-door surveying in low-income communities, mobile home parks, and communities with high environmental burdens identified through a spatial analysis. SPSS statistics was used for data analysis, using cross-tabs and binomial logistic regression in order to determine trends and significance within the data. Data analysis revealed that both residents who identify as non-white and residents with an income below $25,750 had significant difficulties paying for utilities (water, heat, energy, rent) and fresh food. Additionally, they are significantly more likely to use public transportation and face environmental risks. They are less likely to have a primary care doctor, and more likely to experience health problems. These results show that Vermont residents who identify as non-white and those making below $25,750 are experiencing significant environmental and health disparities. Further research should be conducted regarding specific health disparities, and policy makers should be consulted in order to determine the best way to address the disparities through policy.
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Date
2020-01-01