Promote Environmental Justice

What We Know

Air pollution, toxins in water, chemicals in products used at home, natural disasters and high temperatures can negatively impact the health of moms and babies.

For example, pregnant people exposed to high temperatures and air pollution are more likely to give birth preterm or to underweight or stillborn babies, as well as suffer from eclampsia and preeclampsia.

Research shows that some communities are disproportionately exposed to environmental threats associated with higher rates of negative health outcomes before, during and after pregnancy.

Exposure to environmental toxins and climate change threats is not equal

These threats inequitably affect communities of color when compared to their White counterparts both at home and in the workplace, which can lead to higher risks for poor maternal and infant health outcomes.