Under Governor Maura Healey’s leadership, climate action, environmental, and energy justice have rightly emerged as key priorities. However, to ensure a truly just and equitable energy system transition in Massachusetts, she must implement an environmental and energy scorecard. At the federal level, the Biden-Harris Administration has established the Justice 40 initiative with a goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal climate, clean energy, affordable and sustainable housing dollars flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. As a leader in climate action, Massachusetts needs to establish a similar initiative with firm targets and scorecards that inform the public on how well or poorly we are doing when it comes to the orchestration of a just and equitable transition.

The targets and scorecard should provide a comprehensive evaluation of the Commonwealth’s performance on environmental justice metrics. Are we receiving our fair share of federal environmental justice and clean energy funding? How much of these funds are reaching our environmental justice communities? Have environmental burdens in these communities been reduced? How many people of color have been trained and secured green jobs? What portion of the state’s environmental justice and clean energy spending is directed toward BIPOC-owned businesses?

Given Gov. Healey’s background as Attorney General, and with Attorney General Andrea Campbell, they are well-positioned to craft and advocate for robust goals, targets, objectives, and mandates in our legislation and regulations without running afoul of federal laws.  The governor can achieve the targets the state needs via regulations, program design, or department mandates. This is essential to ensure that tens, if not hundreds of billions in climate, environmental, and clean energy funding reach those most in need. An environmental justice scorecard is key for ensuring accountability and transparency.

A recent disparity study conducted by the Mass Save utilities for the period from 2016 to 2021 illustrates the point. The report released to the public on Aug. 5 revealed alarming findings, particularly concerning the percentage of Mass Save spending allocated to Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs). Of the $533.7 million amount spent in the four categories of Planning & Program Administration, Marketing, Sales, Technical Assistance &Training and Evaluation & Research, in three of the four categories, the amount spent was zero and in the fourth, it was .04%. The report clearly identifies a disparity that needs to be addressed and presents an opportunity to establish measurable targets with the upcoming Mass Save three-year plan, with a proposed budget of $5 billion. At a minimum, this plan should include a commitment to allocate a specific percentage of funds to MBEs. It is within the power of the Department of Energy Resources to insist that firm targets and quarterly reporting on MassSave spending with MBE’s are incorporated into the proposed plan as a condition of its final approval.

Without intervention from the citizens of the Commonwealth and the governor, procurement from Black MBEs will remain near zero. It’s not too late to change this status quo. We need Evaluation, Measurement, and Verification processes to assess the performance of energy efficiency activities incorporated into the next Mass Save three-year plan. Without transparency and measurable performance reporting that quantitatively assesses how programs are advancing diversity objectives, the dismal state of MBE spending will only perpetuate the current legacy of disparity.

In business, the adage “what gets measured gets managed” holds true. The Commonwealth already uses methods such as Key Objectives and Results and applying objective principles to procurement  and workforce development  would ensure that planned results are achieved with greater certainty and that future activities are more effective.

The pursuit of environmental justice demands more than rhetorical commitments; it necessitates concrete, enforceable measures that address systemic inequities and prioritize diversity in policymaking and regulation. Gov. Healey’s administration must translate these principles into laws that not only set ambitious targets for environmental justice but also embed mechanisms to ensure fairness and inclusivity throughout their enforcement.

Studies have consistently shown that marginalized communities, including low-income neighborhoods and communities of color, bear a disproportionate burden of environmental pollution and health risks. Without regulatory protections, these disparities are likely to persist or worsen.

Communities already burdened with environmental degradation and health risks cannot afford further delays in legislative and regulatory protections that safeguard their rights and well-being. Moreover, without clear legal frameworks, initiatives aimed at promoting renewable energy adoption and reducing carbon emissions may overlook or exacerbate existing inequalities. Of the approximately 4.5 GW of solar generation deployed in Massachusetts over the last 15 years less than 2% are in an environmental justice community.

Massachusetts can lead by example, demonstrating how a state can effectively integrate equity goals into its environmental justice policies. This entails not only setting benchmarks for clean energy adoption but also establishing pathways for marginalized communities to benefit equitably from these advancements. By codifying environmental justice principles into law and regulation, Gov. Healey’s administration can lay a robust foundation for sustainable development that prioritizes both environmental stewardship and social equity.

The urgency of this task cannot be overstated. Climate change and environmental degradation continue to threaten our planet and exacerbate socio-economic disparities. Regulatory action is indispensable in ensuring that the benefits of the energy system transition are accessible to all residents, irrespective of their background or zip code. It is through legally binding statutes and regulations that Gov. Healey can fulfill her commitment to a just transition, empowering communities to participate meaningfully in shaping a cleaner, more equitable future.

Ed Gaskin is Executive Director of Greater Grove Hall Main Streets and founder of Sunday Celebrations.