The disparate distribution of environmental risks and benefits is well documented in the United States. In response, interactive mapping tools that attempt to address climate and environmental justice (EJ) issues have proliferated in recent years. By synthesizing socioeconomic and environmental data into a user-friendly interface, EJ mapping tools can inform outreach and development decisions that benefit disadvantaged communities. Abundant research has contributed to the creation of the socio-environmental indexes and data sets of which EJ mapping tools are comprised. However, fewer studies have addressed the processes around development and application of these tools. Those that analyze existing EJ mapping tools have focused exclusively on limited selections of state-wide tools and therefore fail to capture the full breadth of their use and development in the United States. Through a survey, database analysis, and interviews with tool developers, I investigate these questions: How are EJ mapping tools developed and used in the United States? How and in what ways do EJ mapping tool development processes impact use and community outcomes? My discussion of preliminary results highlights considerations for the development EJ mapping tools.
