Exploring viable buyout pathways for enhanced health in Galena Park, TX.

Abstract

This study addresses the pressing need for effective solutions to public health concerns in environmental justice communities, where traditional approaches often fall short. Buyouts, the purchase of an eligible property with the intent to reduce risk, have emerged as a promising strategy; yet, their implementation faces challenges related to cost and the identification of willing participants. To explore this issue, a cross-sectional study (N = 130) was conducted, focusing on the factors influencing willingness to participate in buyout programs. The study found that residents living near Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) facilities and in flood-prone areas are significantly more likely to consider buyouts (Odds Ratio = 3.416, P-Value <0.001), even after adjustments for various factors. This finding is pivotal, as it narrows the focus to a specific geographic region, which not only bears the brunt of adverse health impacts but also presents an opportunity for targeted interventions. The introduction of green space solutions in these high-risk zones also emerges as a feasible improvement strategy, offering potential health benefits to the community. This research sheds light on the nuances of implementing buyout programs in environmentally burdened communities, providing valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners seeking to enhance public health outcomes.