Research

New Orleans Home Environment and Ambient Temperature: Measurements and Analysis for Preparedness (NOLA HEAT-MAP)

In this research study, we are examining heat-related morbidity and mortality within New Orleans and identifying individual and neighborhood characteristics that increase vulnerability to heat-related morbidity and mortality. In collaboration with our partner, ISeeChange, we are also collecting measurements of indoor thermal environments, social media observations, and “real time” assessments of heat, risk perceptions, and health symptoms to further characterize microclimates and human behaviors that may lead to increased heat vulnerability. This project is funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (R01ES031955).

Green Space and Cognitive Health: The Role of Structural Racism in Environmental and Health Disparities

In this research study, we are examining the associations between structural racism (as measured by historical redlining), green space, and cognitive function, decline, and dementia. We are also investigating whether or not these relationships differ based on whether or not a neighborhood has undergone gentrification. Finally, we are partnering with Groundwork USA to explore barriers and facilitators to green space improvements and mitigation for displacement due to gentrification. This project is funded by the National Institute on Aging (R01AG077935).

Environmental Racism: Exploring the Enduring Legacy of Redlining on Urban Environments

In this research study, we are examining the patterns of association between historical redlining and present day environmental hazards and amenities in urban environments across the U.S. We created a tool to visualize these relationships in over 200 communities across the U.S. (documentation available here). This study was conducted with colleagues from the RAND Corporation with funding from gifts from RAND supporters and income from RAND operations.