North Carolina Governor Announces New Council to Advance Environmental Justice

(RALEIGH, N.C. – Oct. 24, 2023) Today, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper issued Executive Order No. 292, which lays out a roadmap to incorporate environmental justice goals across state cabinet agencies. The order will elevate the state’s environmental justice advisory board, previously housed within the Department of Environmental Quality, to an environmental justice council, which will now report to the governor. The council is tasked with developing best practices to advance justice and equity, connecting communities to available resources and increasing transparency and accountability.

“Addressing the needs of North Carolina communities historically overburdened by pollution will require a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach, and Governor Cooper’s announcement is an important step in that direction. The actions laid out in EO292 establish critical accountability measures as the state continues to make meaningful progress to address environmental injustices in communities across North Carolina.

“As we work toward a clean energy future with good jobs, healthier air and a more stable climate, it’s essential that environmental justice is fully resourced at every level of decision-making. We look forward to supporting the Cooper administration as they work to prioritize justice and collaborate with communities toward a more equitable, resilient future for everyone.”

• Dionne Delli-Gatti, Associate Vice President, Community Engagement