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.
BOEM defines environmental justice as the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people—regardless of race, color, national origin, or income—with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. BOEM adopted this definition from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) definition of environmental justice. EPA further states that this goal will be achieved when everyone enjoys 1) the same degree of protection from environmental and health hazards, and 2) equal access to the decision-making process to have a healthy environment in which to live, learn, and work.
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.
