We are scientists and survivors.
We are changemakers and caretakers.
We are leaders in healthcare and business, philanthropy and community, representing organizations across sectors.
We are grounded in science, committed to prevention, and focused on the reduction of hazardous chemicals in our air,
water, food, homes, workplaces,
and products.
We are diverse in our perspectives, yet united in our vision for a cancer-free Southwestern Pennsylvania.
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Our vision is a future free of cancer, and an economy that doesn’t rely on hazardous materials and technologies, but instead on approaches like green chemistry and product design that emulates ideas found in nature.
For Southwestern Pennsylvania, this is a future in which all people have secure well-paying jobs that do not make them sick, and live in healthy homes in healthy neighborhoods, without racial disparities in exposure to toxics and in cancer rates. We imagine local, regional and state governments that act boldly to reduce hazardous exposures before they cause disease; to dismantle policies that perpetuate inequities in social and environmental conditions which in turn affect well-being; to hold industries accountable so it no longer pays to pollute, and to incentivize investments that establish Southwestern Pennsylvania as a hub of innovation for a green economy. We imagine the expansion of businesses that improve air and water quality, provide nutritious and safe products, maintain healthy workplaces, and invest in communities. We imagine engaged residents who believe that everyone has a right to good health and a clean environment, and that both of these are foundations of a thriving economy. The people of Southwestern Pennsylvania respect science and are empowered to take action in their households, communities, schools and workplaces towards a bright future they help create.
In June 2020, Network participants came together to develop this vision. For more about our motivations, commitments, and practices and principles for working together, see the Network’s Purpose and Principles.
https://censwpa.org
DECLARATION