What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to explore how matrix approaches improve cumulative impact assessments in decision-making.

January 25, 2026

Matrix Approaches for Cumulative Impact Assessments in Decision-Making

Key Points

The aim is to explore how matrix approaches improve cumulative impact assessments in decision-making.
Contrasted matrix approaches with traditional single-scoring methods.
Highlighted specific tools like the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool.
Discussed potential expansions of these tools to other contexts.
Matrix approaches provide explicit advantages over single-scoring methods.
New tools can address broader decision-making scenarios beyond current uses.
Illustrated examples showcase practical applications in environmental justice.

Abstract

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.

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