What is a city? What are the environmental challenges that are distinctive to an urban setting? What are the public health and children's environmental health issues that are most significant in West Philadelphia? According to the 2000 Census, West Philadelphia has a population of slightly over 200,000 which represents about 14% of the total population of Philadelphia. A primarily African-American population, West Philadelphia encompasses a 14 square mile tract bordered by the Schuylkill River, Cobbs Creek and City Line Avenue.
ENVS 405 is an independent study where Penn undergraduates can explore the health, environmental and natural resource issues of Philadelphia, focusing on the specific needs of West Philadelphia. Current public health concerns impacting the vulnerable populations such as children, especially lead poisoning and asthma would be potential topics. Environmental issues such as water supply, air quality, radon, brownfields, and sprawl would also be good areas of study. Community service can be a component of the independent study.
ENVS 405 will be offered on an independent study basis in the spring and summer sessions.