Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision (SDEV) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the environment and strengthening the economy of Southwest Detroit. Through partnerships with residents, community organizations, government agencies, schools, businesses, and industries, SDEV focuses on combating environmental issues such as air quality, blight, and incompatible land use. Their work is made possible by memberships, donations, and grants.

As a community-based leader and voice for the environment and economic development, SDEV envisions Southwest Detroit as an environmentally healthy community, serving as a model for urban revitalization driven by community participation. Their programs and projects include Clean Diesel and Healthy Business initiatives, a Healthy Homes program, Neighborhood Beautification projects, and Storm Water Bioretention demonstrations. SDEV connects the community to their mission by collecting and disseminating information on environmental issues, developing an informed and active citizenry, and serving as a catalyst and resource for environmental improvement and economic development.

Through their efforts, SDEV has made a significant impact, including hosting neighborhood clean-up events, transforming vacant spaces into community places, promoting remediation and redevelopment of contaminated sites, and reducing diesel emissions on a regional level. Southwest Detroit, with its industrial components, has been negatively affected by living conditions such as air pollution and contamination. SDEV works tirelessly to address these injustices and create a healthier living environment for the community.

Founded in 1991, SDEV has been instrumental in initiating a dialogue between the business interests and residents of Southwest Detroit, resulting in a comprehensive community plan. In recognition of their green initiatives, SDEV was named a Michigan Green Leader by The Detroit Free Press in 2014. Contact SDEV at PO Box 442012, Detroit, MI 48244, or call 313-842-1961 to get involved and make a difference.

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