About the guide
At Jesuit Social Services, we recognise that people and the environment are deeply interconnected. Our Ecological Justice Practices guide highlights the intersection between environmental and social justice in everyday social work practice, and how small, practical steps can create meaningful change for the people we work with.
Ecological justice has been a commitment of Jesuit Social Services since 2012. Pondering and learning alongside the changing climate and drawing on the experiences of practitioners and the communities and places we work in has culminated in the development of this resource. It is designed to enhance understanding of the role of ecological justice in frontline work and equip practitioners with the information and skills needed to address the relationship between social and environmental equity.
Whether it’s strengthening housing stability through energy-saving adjustments, planning for extreme weather, exploring green spaces as therapeutic tools, or fostering healthy relationships around individuals, ecological practices are about enabling individuals and communities to thrive. These practices foster resilience, autonomy and dignity, while also contributing to a healthier environment.
Ecological justice isn’t an add-on. It’s a lens that enriches the work our staff already do and sheds light on the increasingly complex contexts staff are already responding to. By understanding how environmental and social factors intersect, we can better support our program participants to navigate challenges, build stability and flourish.