Cushing, L. J., & Frosch, R. M. (2023, May 2). Toxic Tides and Environmental Injustice: Social Vulnerability to Sea Level Rise and Flooding of Hazardous Sites in Coastal California . Environmental Science and Technology. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.2c07481
As sea level rise and intense rainfall increase flood risk, disadvantaged neighborhoods face growing threats from nearby overflowing landfills and industrial zones releasing harmful pollutants. Policies to move toxic, high-hazard sites, strengthen flood defenses, and for monitoring have been called for to better protect vulnerable communities from pollution and flood risk. A study examining the release of toxic pollutants from hazardous waste sites during coastal flooding found carcinogenic chemicals dispersed with floods; with many of the polluted areas being in close proximity to low-income communities and those of color.
The article examines the impact of coastal flooding on public health. This interconnection between environmental hazards, climate change impacts like sea level rise, and issues of social equity aligns with key concepts in environmental science. I found the study’s implications alarming, but informative. It highlighted how climate impacts can worsen existing inequalities by intensifying exposures oppressed groups endure. I think that we need to equitably plan for and respond to such climate health threats and pollution dangers, as well as support open discussions about advancing more inclusive and sustainable solutions.
It is sad that many disfranchise communities will face the brunt of Environemtal challenges in the area. Is there any government action to help these communities? Is this a simple fix through creating sea wall and disposing of extra water from the area or is it too bad the fix? Will the government need to create new communities away from the danger of rising sea levels?
Thank you for reading my post. Unfortunately a sea wall is only a temporary fix as nature will eventually overpower whatever barriers we put up. Not the governments, but the communities may agree to move themselves away from these dangers.