Biden's Justice40 program faces challenges in delivering on its promises

A Chicago nonprofit is working with $10 million in federal funds to transform a disadvantaged neighborhood, but concerns remain over the Justice40 initiative’s impact.

Adam Mahoney reports for Capital B.

In short:

• Blacks in Green is using federal funds to develop a "sustainable square mile" in a historically Black Chicago neighborhood.
• The Biden administration's Justice40 initiative aims to ensure disadvantaged communities benefit from climate investments but struggles with tracking and implementation.
• Despite federal support, many environmental justice groups face bureaucratic obstacles and are concerned about long-term reliance on government grants.

Key quote:

“This work is about helping our community to understand itself again as its own emergency management system.”

— Naomi Davis, founder of Blacks in Green

Why this matters:

Justice40 promises to direct climate funding to communities most in need, but critics argue the lack of clear metrics and long-term support limits its potential. Without sustained investment, the initiative may fail to address the deep-rooted environmental inequities it targets.