Problem

Transportation in Washington State is one of the largest contributors to its carbon footprint, accounting for 44.9% of statewide greenhouse gas emissions. The majority of these emissions come from cars and trucks, making up almost half of all pollution from transportation. Beyond these carbon factors, the number of pedestrian and bicycle deaths reached a 20-year high in 2023. Traffic deaths per mile travelled are also on the rise, showing further evidence that safer transit infrastructure is needed. This confluence of emissions, pollution and safety underscores the importance of rethinking transportation investments with consideration for climate and mobility justice, especially in frontline communities.

Responses

Front and Centered is a coalition of community-led groups in Washington State that advocates for a Transportation Justice Agenda. They push for a clean energy transition in transportation that focuses on equitable decarbonisation: improving public transit while ensuring that frontline voices shape the EV transition. Through coordinated efforts between the Community Council, advisory experts, and local groups, Front and Centered seeks to ensure that decision-making reflects the voices of communities overburdened by pollution.

Their advocacy delivered concrete results through Senate Bill 5141, known as the Healthy Environment for All (HEAL) Act, which was passed in Washington State in 2021. The HEAL Act aims to address environmental disparities and ensure a healthy environment, particularly to vulnerable populations. It establishes environmental justice obligations for key state agencies, mandating that 40% of clean energy investments go to overburdened, polluted communities.

Find out more: Front and Centered