BOEM is committed to advancing inclusivity, equity, and environmental justice through its programs, policies, and decisions. BOEM advances these principles by:
- promoting diversity, accessibility, and inclusion in decision-making processes;
- expanding opportunities for meaningful engagement; and
- identifying and addressing impacts of BOEM-regulated actions on underserved communities, particularly those with environmental justice concerns.
“Environmental justice” means the just treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of income, race, color, national origin, Tribal affiliation, or disability, in agency decision-making and other Federal activities that affect human health and the environment so that people: 1) are fully protected from disproportionate and adverse human health and environmental effects (including risks) and hazards, including those related to climate change, the cumulative impacts of environmental and other burdens, and the legacy of racism or other structural or systemic barriers; and 2) have equitable access to a healthy, sustainable, and resilient environment in which to live, play, work, learn, grow, worship, and engage in cultural and subsistence practices. (E.O. 14096, Revitalizing Our Nation’s Commitment to Environmental Justice for All)
Although BOEM manages offshore energy and marine mineral development on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf, impacts from these activities can affect onshore coastal communities. Several Executive Orders require BOEM to determine whether its decisions would have disproportionately adverse impacts on communities with environmental justice concerns.
