Environmental Justice Coalition
The Richmond Environmental Justice Coalition (EJ Coalition) is a collaborative effort among local organizations working to advance policies and investments that support environmental justice, climate resilience, public health, and equitable access to resources across Richmond.
We come together to share knowledge and resources, identify shared priorities, and collectively advocate for policies and investments that reflect Richmond communities' needs.
Our Priorities
Our coalition’s work aligns with the goals of the City of Richmond’s climate plan, RVAGreen2050, and reflects the need for equitable, immediate, community-centered action to address climate change impacts and build a more resilient Richmond.
Our priorities include:
Climate resilience and sustainability investments.
Energy affordability and efficiency.
Equitable access to parks and green space.
Urban forestry and tree canopy investments.
Flood resilience and stormwater infrastructure.
Community-centered budgeting and public engagement.
Our Work
City Budget Advocacy
Our primary collective action is advocating for environmental justice priorities in the Richmond City budget. Each spring, the Coalition comes together to identify shared priorities, develop budget recommendations, and advocate for their inclusion in the adopted budget.
Recent budget wins include:
Funding a new Energy Efficiency Coordinator position in the Office of Sustainability to launch an energy-efficiency program in Richmond.
Eliminating $500,000 allocated to the Gas Utility New Business Fund.
Continuing the City’s local contribution to GRTC and support for Zero Fare.
Creating a dedicated Service Code for Urban Forestry funding in the adopted budget book to increase transparency.
Adding five inspector positions within the Department of Planning and Development Review to support needs, including the Rental Inspection Program.
Advocacy and Education
Throughout the year, Coalition members meet to share information and resources, build collective knowledge, and support environmental justice initiatives across Richmond.
This includes providing public comment on issues before City Council, sharing information with our networks, supporting community-led initiatives, and participating in direct actions.
What We’re Working On
Preparing coalition priorities for the 2027 General Assembly and Richmond City's FY28 budget planning.
Opposing the proposed merger between NextEra and Dominion Energy, which threatens to eliminate local jobs, raise utility bills, and increase reliance on gas power plants.
Advocating for equitable zoning reform through the Code Refresh process, specifically focusing on tree canopy protections, increased walkability and transit access, and expanded housing choice for all residents.
Supporting the Cool the City coalition in advocating for greener, healthier neighborhoods and equitable investments in trees, green space, and climate resilience where they are needed most.
Check back for updates on our collective priorities and opportunities to get involved.
Get Involved
The EJ Coalition welcomes new members actively advancing environmental justice priorities in the Richmond area, whether through an organization or their individual work.
Interested in joining us? Contact policy@theclimatecollaborative.org.
We do not currently maintain a public mailing list for EJ Coalition updates, but you can stay in the loop on coalition activities by signing up for policy updates from Southside ReLeaf.
EJ Coalition Members
The EJ Coalition brings together organizations working on environmental justice, climate, transportation, housing, public health, energy, and related issues across the Richmond region. Click on each logo below to learn about our members and to get involved.
