The effects of Hurricane Maria are still being felt in Puerto Rico today, as many still do not have running water in their area. However, many on the island are hopeful that things will change with the visit of Michael Regan, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator.

Regan is expected to continue touring several poor communities within Puerto Rico to learn how pollution has affected them. This is all part of a U.S. initiative called "Journey to Justice."

Michael Regan Wants To See Injustices Up-close

The Associated Press recently talked to Michael Regan regarding his Puerto Rico visit. He said that it is important for him to see what is on the ground and to see these injustices there up close. He added that it's important because these communities are on the frontline and are the ones facing the impact of climate change the most. Regan also said he wants to "listen and learn from the community so we can develop solutions together."

NBC News noted that the visit comes as Puerto Rico is about to receive $78 million in EPA funds. This is mainly for water infrastructure projects, as many of the island's water infrastructure was damaged during Hurricane Maria.

While the local government of Puerto Rico will be the one to ultimately decide the allocation, Regan has already sent them a letter that contains the outlines of the agency's expectations as to where these funds should go. He said that he wants "communities that have never had a seat at the table" to be eligible for those resources as well.

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'Journey to Justice' First Stop is One of Puerto Rico's Most Polluted Waterways

Michael Regan's first stop in his tour is often regarded as one of Puerto Rico's most polluted waterways, the Cano Martín Peña. It is home to about 25,000 people who lack access to clean water.

Community leader Lucy Cruz also spoke to the Associated Press and said that there is a lack of a sewage system in Cano Martín Peña. She said that while there is federal and local funding to clean up the waterway, they are not enough because of the sewage problem. She added that the change in their community would impact all of Puerto Rico.

That is not all Regan will be taking a look at during his visit to the U.S. territory. According to Politico, he will also be meeting with around 20 activists at a pier in San Juan. 

Brenda Torres, executive director of Estuario de la Bahía de San Juan, said that they want him to get a "real sense" of what people on the island are facing, and that would be hard to do.

It is also noted that Regan will also have to turn his attention to various environmental issues, such as coal ash, permitting, and dredging concerns.

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This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

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