Environmental health risks are everywhere, but they're often invisible until they start affecting entire communities. University of Michigan School of Public Health researcher Devon Payne-Sturges reveals how environmental factors impact different groups—from children to farmworkers—and why mapping these exposures is crucial for protecting public health. When neighborhoods show unusual patterns of breathing problems or developmental issues, Payne-Sturges' research helps identify the environmental causes behind these health disparities. Her work creates detailed maps of environmental exposures to pinpoint which communities face the greatest risks for illness and disease. By understanding these complex relationships between environment and health, we can develop targeted solutions at individual, community, and policy levels. Environmental health research isn't just about studying pollution—it's about building healthier communities where everyone has the chance to thrive.