PHILADELPHIA (Sept. 19, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz met with residents, community leaders and local nonprofit Groundwork RVA to discuss environmental justice challenges during a visit to Richmond, Virginia on September 18.

During his visit, Ortiz toured Groundwork RVA’s Hillside Farm, which focuses on sustainable land use and addressing food deserts by providing fresh produce to the community. He also met with faith-based organizations in Southside Richmond to discuss their sustainability projects.

"Meeting with community organizations and residents is crucial for us to address environmental justice challenges in communities that are most affected," said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. "Empowering grassroots initiatives ensures that communities like South Richmond have a direct voice in shaping healthier environments.

Following the tour, Ortiz joined Richmond's Office of Sustainability and local leaders to celebrate the announcement of the "Cool the City" campaign, designed to address the urban heat island effect and stormwater management challenges in South Richmond by planting 3,000 trees. Ortiz applauded the city for its innovation and collaborative efforts and took part in planting the first batch of trees. 

"The City of Richmond has been working tirelessly to achieve Mayor Stoney's goal of becoming the greenest City on the east coast," said Richmond's Director of Sustainability Laura Thomas. "From new solar farms to funding CBOs through neighborhood resilience grants, Richmond is investing heavily in an equity-centered approach to building sustainability and resilience for our frontline community members. More specifically, as our lead on climate justice, I'm committed to ensuring Richmond becomes the story of how the Inflation Reduction Act can transform a community as we continue to apply for, and receive, millions of dollars in climate equity funding from the federal government. I look forward to our continued and shared progress with Richmond's distinction as a leader in racial and environmental justice."

Ortiz emphasized the EPA’s commitment to investing in communities that have historically experienced environmental stressors. He highlighted the agency’s priority to coordinate efforts with partners to ensure community groups have the resources they need to achieve improvements.

“Groundwork RVA is excited and proud to be part of a dynamic and equity-focused climate action and resilience movement in Richmond, Virginia,” said Groundwork RVA Director Rob Jones. “Regional Administrator Ortiz's visit today is testimony to both the success and the ongoing need for this work that addresses past inequities and focuses on the most impacted communities for future investments.  We look forward to a continuing close partnership with EPA Region 3 in the months and years ahead.”

Ortiz closed out the day by visiting the University of Richmond to meet with students and discuss career opportunities in environmental stewardship.

Learn more about the EPA’s Environmental Justice efforts.

Learn more about the City of Richmond’s sustainability efforts.

Learn more about Groundwork RVA and its work across Richmond.