New York Environmental Law and Justice Project

An environmental justice organization. It works to protect communities from environmental harm and draw attention to public health concerns. In the aftermath of 9/11, the project collected dust samples near the World Trade Center and pressed for testing of potential exposure risks to residents, workers, and first responders. Its work also includes raising concerns about hazardous contamination at the Jacob Riis Houses, where soil testing identified benzene and benzo-anthracene. The organization challenges delays in cleanup and monitoring and calls for accountability. At the Wards Island Waste Water Treatment Plant, it addresses defects in the water treatment system and related risks to New York rivers and plant workers. Its efforts focus on environmental safety and community concerns in New York City.