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Date Permissions Signed

11-10-2016

Date of Award

Fall 2016

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Environmental Studies

First Advisor

Abel, Troy D.

Second Advisor

Salazar, Debra J.

Third Advisor

Mookherjee, Debnath.

Abstract

This research examines tensions in Smart Growth in Central Puget Sound, Washington, an early adopter of regional planning influenced by Smart Growth planning principles. I examine evidence of social equity, environmental exposure, and health outcomes. Using longitudinal geographic cluster analysis, longitudinal and cumulative air pollution analysis, and health assessment, I compare socioeconomic changes with environmental and health measures. My research indicates that economic inequality has increased over time and the region remains spatially divided by socioeconomic status and race and ethnicity, despite implementation of Smart Growth policies that were intended to improve social equity outcomes. Further, despite a trend of de-industrialization that has occurred within the region over time, air pollution risks have remained skewed and have spatially concentrated, with the adverse impacts of exposure falling disproportionately on struggling communities within the region. Exposure to cumulative air pollution risks remains high in areas targeted for more compact development. Finally, my research reveals that air pollution related health outcomes are worsening, and are associated with lower socioeconomic status and higher exposure, both of which are influenced by place. These results raise critical issues about the Central Puget Sound's Smart Growth planning efforts. Further, it reveals ways in which Smart Growth is falling short of meeting the visionary goal to transform our cities and regions into more equitable places.

Type

Text

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25710/3agz-jg16

Publisher

Western Washington University

OCLC Number

962932972

Subject – LCSH

Sustainable development--Economic aspects--Washington (State)--Puget Sound; Regional planning--Economic aspects--Washington (State)--Puget Sound; Environmental health--Washington (State)--Puget Sound; Human ecology--Washington (State)--Puget Sound; Environmental justice--Washington (State)--Puget Sound; Public health--Washington (State)--Puget Sound; Air--Pollution--Washington (State)--Puget Sound

Geographic Coverage

Puget Sound (Wash.)

Format

application/pdf

Genre/Form

masters theses

Language

English

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this thesis for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author's written permission.

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