The pollution next door

In Illinois and the Midwest, there are numerous neighborhoods bordering properties that produce air, water or soil pollution. Some residents have lived in these areas for generations; others can’t afford to move.

In the 1990s, state and federal officials began establishing environmental justice policies to prevent toxic threats in communities of color and low-income neighborhoods. According to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, the principle of environmental justice requires that no segment of the population, regardless of race, national origin, age or income, should bear disproportionately high or adverse effects of environmental pollution.

More than 25 years later, many question whether these policies have helped. In the coming year, the Tribune will visit some of these communities and tell the stories of people who live next door to a health threat.

Today “It’s never fresh air.” Little Village residents cite respiratory issues and demand a moratorium on warehouse development.

Part One Fiercely proud of their home, residents of the Southeast Side — long a toxic dumping ground — are rising up against polluters. Go to tinyurl.com/southeastside

Part Two Many industries call the Southwest Side home. In McKinley Park, a controversial asphalt plant built four years ago has sparked complaints about noxious odors. Go to tinyurl.com/mckinleyparkresidents

Part Three Surrounded by Superfund sites and coal ash ponds, Waukegan residents hope their city can one day realize its potential: “We have a jewel of a lakefront.” Go to tinyurl. com/coalashponds