IDEAL (Inclusion and Development of Environment Allies and Leaders) is an initiative created in the wake of environmental justice issues in our marginalized communities. This initiative aims to build relationships with community leaders from several key organizations to solve environmental issues such as housing quality, health, energy insecurity and pollution. IDEAL also seeks to bring awareness on the health and financial effects through the lens of the environment.
In order to make West Michigan’s environment better as a whole, it is important to involve all communities, especially underrepresented communities. Underrepresented communities are one of the most vulnerable to environmental deterioration. In order to strengthen our communities within West Michigan, WMEAC created an initiative called IDEAL.
IDEAL (Inclusion and Development of Environment Allies and Leaders) is an initiative created in the wake of environmental justice issues in our underrepresented communities. This initiative aims to build relationships with community leaders from several key organizations to solve environmental issues such as housing quality, health, energy insecurity and pollution.
IDEAL also seeks to bring awareness on the health and financial effects through the lens of the environment. Many studies have been conducted in the correlation between health and the environment. Though there are many factors, the relationship between poor environment quality and health problems, such as asthma, is strong. Yet, having a better environment can prevent some health problems and save money for many families. With IDEAL, WMEAC seek to not only improve the environment but, improve the quality of life in underrepresented communities so that everyone can have the best quality of life. If you would like to learn more about IDEAL please email Anne Marie Hertl or give Anne a call at 616-451-3051 ext. 40.
Source: WMEAC