Matrix Approaches for Cumulative Impact Assessments in Decision-Making

This article discusses matrix approaches for cumulative impact assessments in decision-making. Matrix approaches are described and contrasted with the more traditional, single-scoring methods, such as CalEnviroScreen and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Environmental Justice Index. In doing so, the explicit advantages of matrix approaches are highlighted. In addition, this article explains how new generation tools, such as the the White House Council on Environmental Quality’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool and New Jersey’s Environmental Justice Mapping, Assessment, and Protection tool are examples of matrix approaches and how these tools can be expanded beyond their current uses in order to address other decision-making contexts where cumulative impacts are a concern.