April 24, 2023 – Scenic America commends the Biden Administration on emphasizing and prioritizing environmental justice for all. The President’s statement of commitment to providing the American people “clean air to breathe, clean water to drink, safe and healthy foods to eat, and an environment that is healthy, sustainable, climate-resilient, and free from harmful chemical exposure” aligns with our organization’s beliefs that all people and communities should have access to clean energy and clear skies.

We also find alignment with the principles of environmental justice within our commitment to preserving scenic beauty and fighting visual blight. Data shows that underserved communities are more likely to experience visual blight in the form of billboards, overheard utility wires, and other unsightly human additions to the environment.

Digital billboards contribute to light pollution, costly energy expense, and adverse ecological effects. The removal of trees for billboard and signage visibility can have an immediate negative impact on the environment and property values. These are all, unfortunately, common themes within underserved and economically disenfranchised communities.

This Executive Order demonstrates the Biden Administration’s consideration and acknowledgment of these issues, and we hope to see further action to help improve our communities and extend environmental justice where it is needed most.

We believe everyone deserves to live, work, and play in beautiful places. The scenic qualities of our communities impact our quality of life—promoting economic prosperity, mental health, and community pride. Our elected officials have a responsibility to encourage responsible development that preserves what’s unique about our communities while looking to the future.

Mark Falzone

President, Scenic America