Date of Award
Spring 5-6-2012
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Geosciences
First Advisor
Dr. Katherin B. Hankins
Second Advisor
Dr. John M. Allensworth
Third Advisor
Dr. Timothy L. Hawthorne
Fourth Advisor
Dr. Daniel M. Deocampo
Fifth Advisor
John A. Steward, MPH
Abstract
Environmental factors within communities play a significant role on the health and well-being of residents. These social and physical determinants have a substantial effect on health. This interaction can result in environmental injustices, inequality, and ultimately poor health for residents. The community of Galena Park, Texas, is a predominantly minority community of Hispanic and African-American residents with previously undocumented concerns related to air quality, the built environment, access to healthcare and the food environment. Through participatory engagement with Galena Park residents using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), this research examines the degree to which GIS is an effective tool in illustrating and visualizing environmental and social injustices. Findings from this research suggest that GIS only relays part of the story and is most powerful when the lived experiences of residents are integrated into the analytical process.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.57709/2768946
Recommended Citation
Jordan, Demetrice R., "Exploring the use of Geographic Information Systems as an Environmental and Social Justice Advocacy Tool for Community-Based Organizations: A Case Study of Galena Park, Texas." Thesis, Georgia State University, 2012.
doi: https://doi.org/10.57709/2768946