WPYEJC MONITORS THE ENVIRONMENT AS CLIMATE ADVOCATES
Philadelphia ranks as one of the nation's 25 worst metro areas for ozone and year-round particle pollution, according to the American Lung Association. The air quality is primarily affected by ozone, a gas pollutant. Unfortunately, people of color living in low-income communities are disproportionately impacted by this environmental crisis, especially in West Philadelphia. This is why it's important to monitor air, water, and soil and keep the community informed. Thanks to grants and sponsorships, we are given the opportunity to voice environmental justice concerns to local elected officials, state legislators, and the community at large.
CLICK ON PHOTO TO MONITOR AIR QUALITY
STUDENT EMPOWERMENT
ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING
ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING
As future community leaders who advocate for change, we learn about the impact of climate and pollution on the local environment. Since starting WPYEJC, we’ve appeared on talk radio shows, Facebook Live and traveled to the state capital to advocate for clean air, water preservation, and prevention of soil contamination.
ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING
ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING
ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING
Each summer students spend six weeks engaging in experiential learning using environmental coursework, scientific experiments in a laboratory, and field trips to collect sample materials. With thousands of residents living in the West Philadelphia area, the risk of increased asthma rates and lead in water are issues of concern.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING
CCCEEC, Inc. has a grassroots effort o keep communities healthy. Our Youth Council started a movement in the summer of 2022 to advocate for “Clean and Green” alleys. This effort resulted in Senator Anthony H. Williams providing funds in 2023 for CCCEEC, Inc. to clean and maintain t55 alleys in West Philly.
SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP
SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP
WPYEJC members study environmental impacts that are prevalent in West and Southwest Philadelphia. Sustainability Interns test for the presence or the potential presence of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants in the local air, soil and water.
WATER PRESERVATION
SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP
WATER PRESERVATION
During a field trip to the Discovery Center, we explored measuring freshwater mussels. As a community partner with CCCEEC, Inc., the Discovery Center provides an opportunity for a hands-on data collection experience to learn the filtering benefits of fresh water mussels.
THE SCIENCE LAB
SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP
WATER PRESERVATION
A state-of-the-art laboratory located at the Environmental Center in Cobbs Creek is complete with scientific equipment. As members of WPYEJC, we have access to a variety of educational programs to engage us in experiential learning, including collecting and analyzing water and plant samples from Cobbs Creek Park.
