This section provides background information relating to the vacant buildings problem both locally and nationally. The information is organized into four topical areas:

• History. A review of program initiatives and legislation relating to the environmental problem of vacant buildings.
• Conditions. An overview of findings about the vacant buildings problem in St. Louis and East St. Louis.
• Health. A brief look at the physical and mental problems that can be caused by exposure to vacant buildings.
• Literature. A guide to local, state and national reports that have been prepared on this topic.