Environmental justice for rail yard communities: A CBPR approach

Air pollution is becoming a widely recognized public health concern due to its adverse physical health effects, particularly among low-income and minority populations in urban communities experiencing significant additional environmental and personal stressors. San Bernardino County is most affected by small particulate matter (PM) pollution which is a hazardous byproduct of diesel engine combustion. The BNSF San Bernardino rail yard emits 22 tons of diesel PM each year, putting nearby residents at risk for decreased lung function and respiratory tract infections. The purpose of our study was to explore community members' perceived environmental health risks and their willingness to take action to reduce these risks. We used community-based participatory research (CBPR) strategies to collaborate with San Bernardino residents living near the BNSF rail yard. Key informant interviews (N=12) and validation focus groups (N=2) were conducted with English and Spanish-speaking community members. The semi-structured interviews and focus groups were recorded, transcribed, and translated. Responses to interview and focus group questions were coded for recurrent themes and organized into overarching categories. While seen as a nuisance and somewhat recognized for its inherent risks, air pollution was not a primary concern for interviewees and focus group members who battled with the impacts of the current economic downturn, including increased homelessness. Research findings from this qualitative work are important to help us contextualize planned health outcomes research within the lived experiences of the affected local populations.