Author: shayla

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The father of environmental justice exposes the geography of Inequity

Funes, Y. (2023, September 20). The father of environmental justice exposes the geography of Inequity. Retrieved from https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-02613-6 

In the article, the work of Robert D. Bullard (a central pioneer of environmental justice) is discussed. Bullard’s research, conducted in the 1970s, revealed the link between a person’s environment and their health, particularly in marginalized communities. He uncovered the extent of environmental pollution in predominantly Black neighborhoods, shedding light on the concept of environmental racism. Bullard’s efforts have led to the establishment of the Robert D. Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice and the global recognition of environmental justice as a crucial issue. 

This article raises awareness about the unequal distribution of environmental hazards and the impacts they have on marginalized communities. Environmental justice is a critical aspect of environmental science, since it emphasizes the fair treatment and involvement of all individuals, regardless of their race or socioeconomic status. It is inspiring to see how one person’s research and advocacy efforts have sparked a movement and influenced international discussions on climate change and environmental reparations. It reminds me and other readers of the power of scientific research in addressing societal disparities and moving toward a more equitable and sustainable future.

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“sacrifice zones”: The new “Jim Crow” that’s sickening and killing people of colour in US

“sacrifice zones”: The new “Jim Crow” that’s sickening and killing people of colour in US. (2023, October 13). Retrieved from https://www.newsclick.in/sacrifice-zones-new-jim-crow-thats-sickening-and-killing-people-colour-us 

The article discusses the concept of “sacrifice zones,” which are communities of color in the United States that have been disproportionately impacted by pollution and environmental hazards due to systemic racism. These areas, located near industrial facilities such as factories and power plants, have higher rates of health problems and environmental degradation. The article highlights the need for environmental justice and the actions being taken by the government to address these issues. 

In my opinion, it’s crucial to recognize and address the seemingly never-ending environmental injustices faced by communities of color. The concept of sacrifice zones stresses the deep-rooted inequalities and systemic racism that result in unequal distribution of environmental harms. I just can’t comprehend why communities already facing socioeconomic challenges are further burdened by such pollution and health issues. It’s so upsetting that it isn’t ensured that all people, regardless of their race or socioeconomic status, have access to a clean and healthy environment.

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Fossil fuel-related toxic pollution from petrochemical industries devastating lives in the United States

Fossil fuel-related toxic pollution from petrochemical industries devastating lives in the United States. (2024, January 25). Retrieved from https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/01/united-states-lives-devastated-and-human-rights-sacrificed-by-toxic-fossil-fuel-related-pollution-from-petrochemical-plants-in-texas-and-louisiana/#:~:text=The%20predominance%20of%20Black%20and,neighbourhoods%20based%20on%20their%20racial 

The article from Amnesty International highlights the devastating impact of toxic pollution caused by fossil fuel-related activities in petrochemical plants located in Texas and Louisiana. The report reveals that communities living near these plants are consistently exposed to harmful pollutants, leading to severe health issues and violations of human rights. The article emphasizes the need to end the expansion of the petrochemical industry in these regions and advocates for a rapid transition away from fossil fuel usage. 

This relates to the field of environmental science because it sheds light on the detrimental consequences of fossil fuel-related pollution on both human health and the environment. It explores the links between industrial activities, pollution, and the well-being of communities living near petrochemical plants. It is disheartening to witness the disproportionate burden borne by low-income communities, predominantly consisting of Black and Latinx/Hispanic individuals, who face significant barriers to justice and access to healthcare. This article really highlighted the systemic environmental racism prevalent in the United States and reiterated to both me and other readers the great importance of holding corporations accountable for their actions and promoting sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels.

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The Colorado River and environmental justice for the Navajo tribe

University, S. C. (2023, August 17). The Colorado River and environmental justice for the Navajo tribe. Retrieved from https://www.scu.edu/environmental-ethics/resources/the-colorado-river-and-environmental-justice-for-the-navajo-tribe/ 

The article explores the impact of the drying up of the Colorado River on states that rely on its water resources, with a specific focus on the environmental justice issues faced by the Navajo tribe in Arizona. The Colorado River provides water for 40 million people in seven states and has reached record-low levels due to overuse and climate change. The article examines the water rights allocation, the negotiations between states, and the exclusion of Indigenous groups, especially the Navajo tribe, from the conversation.

Environmental science relates to this article as it addresses the impact of climate change on water resources and resulting environmental justice issues. The drying up of the Colorado River due to chronic overuse and drought is a significant concern, affecting the water supply of millions of people. To me, this article brings attention to the urgent need for sustainable water management and the importance of considering the well-being of all communities in decision-making processes (particularly those most vulnerable to the consequences of environmental degradation). It truly is upsetting to see the effects of climate change leading to the depletion of vital water resources, with Indigenous communities disproportionately affected.

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Why Coastal Access is an environmental justice issue

Fuller, M. (2023, August 31). Why Coastal Access is an environmental justice issue. Retrieved from https://www.nrdc.org/stories/why-coastal-access-environmental-justice-issue 

This article discusses the systemic injustices that have shaped beach access and the resulting need for change. It explores how racial discrimination and exclusionary laws have limited access to coastal areas, particularly for people of color. The article also mentions the ongoing impacts of historic racism and ongoing systemic racism on coastal access. It emphasizes the importance of equitable coastal access for physical and mental health, as well as the need for grassroots and policy-level solutions to address these environmental justice issues.

 

Coastal access is not only related to environmental science, but it is also an important environmental concern- directly affecting people’s ability to enjoy and benefit from coastal ecosystems. It’s concerning to learn about historical and ongoing barriers that prevent certain communities, particularly people of color, from fully enjoying and benefiting from coastal areas. It was also interesting to me that these issues and inequities are more prevalent in the South, in states such as South Carolina and Florida. To promote social equity, I think we should support grassroots efforts and support/advocate for policy changes such as MPA’s to address these differences and work towards a more just future.

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California bill to Ban Food Chemicals is a win for environmental justice

Persellin, K. (2023, June 22). California bill to Ban Food Chemicals is a win for environmental justice. Environmental Working Group. https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2023/06/california-bill-ban-food-chemicals-win-environmental-justice

California’s Assembly Bill 418 seeks to ban five chemicals commonly used in highly processed foods, which lower-income and colored communities have unequal exposure to; due to greater consumption of packaged foods containing these chemicals and lack of access to healthier alternatives. Attributable to long-term systemic racism and connected inequities, dollar stores and convenience marts containing food with these chemicals have traditionally been overly concentrated near or within low-income communities. These chemicals have also been linked to many health problems such as cancer, endocrine disruption and reproductive toxicity.

This article discusses an important environmental science and justice issue regarding a proposed ban on certain chemicals used in processed foods in California, which relates to environmental science due to its subject of environmental policy, and public equity and health. Overall, I fully support the bill’s aim to improve food safety equitably. Banning proven harmful additives from the food system, in addition to addressing root causes of unequal access to nutrition, could produce significant long-term benefits for human and environmental wellbeing.



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Toxic Tides and Environmental Injustice: Social Vulnerability to Sea Level Rise and Flooding of Hazardous Sites in Coastal California

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.



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Waiving California environmental rules for delta water equates to a civil rights issue

Willie, K., & Chichizola, R. (2023, March 17). Waiving california environmental rules for delta water equates to a civil rights issue. CalMatters. https://calmatters.org/environment/water/2023/03/delta-water-environment-rules/ 

Governor Newsom’s decision to bypass environmental regulations for water storage and usage in the Delta region includes effects such as harmful algal blooms, killing salmon populations already suffering from drought, and civil rights violations- particularly for Native American tribal members. Rules were directed to be waived in order to deliver more water to agriculture which disproportionately harms Native tribes for whom salmon are culturally significant, and violates civil rights as California’s antiquated water rights system was designed during a racist era. The authors are calling on the EPA to intervene, to ensure the Delta ecosystem and surrounding communities are protected.

This article discusses finding a balance between human water needs and sustaining the Delta environment, therefore it is related to environmental science. Personally, the article raises concerns that resonate with me, such as the failure of the state to consider all stakeholders in water policy decisions. I’m wondering why tribal people, fishing unions and communities of color have been excluded from these choices, as they are clearly disproportionately impacted by decisions that weaken protections. More so because they suffer from disproportionate health outcomes such as diabetes, heart disease and suicide.



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City planners targeted a black community for heavy pollution. Can the damage be undone?

Fears, D., & Muyskens, J. (2023, May 11). City planners targeted a black community for heavy pollution. Can the damage be undone?. The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2023/05/07/oakland-freeways-environmental-justice/

Due to economically motivated discriminatory planning, construction and expansion of freeways in Oakland have disproportionately affected low-income neighborhoods- increasing pollution and health risks. The struggle for equitable distribution of resources, a healthier environment, and the abolishment of these racist policies in the city continues, with activists and organizations in Oakland beginning with the proposal of an investment in public transportation and the creation of green spaces.

The article reviews the deliberate placement of freeways and pollution-heavy industries in Black communities like West Oakland, exposing residents to harmful traffic and industrial pollution. This has led to environmental justice issues, as the community faces higher rates of health problems like asthma that can be linked to air quality. It’s upsetting to me to see how systemic racism influenced infrastructure decisions in a way that exploited and disadvantaged minority communities not only environmentally but also health-wise for decades. I hope that the city will take action to help correct this wrong from the past and also focus on assessing pollution burdens.



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Lawsuit Filed Over New Warehouse Complex in San Bernardino, California

O’Melveny. (2023, March 16). Environmental justice update (March 2023). Environmental Justice Update (March 2023). https://www.omm.com/resources/alerts-and-publications/alerts/environmental-justice-update-march-2023/ 

Environmental groups sued the county of San Bernardino, California over the approval of a new warehouse complex- claiming it violates the California Environmental Quality Act. The plaintiffs claim that Bloomington Business Park will expose a predominantly Latinx community to high levels of pollution as well as requiring the demolition of more than 100 homes- resulting in the displacement of minority families. According to the plaintiffs, Spanish-language versions of the executive summaries of impact statements and hearings were not provided by the county, causing the documents to be inaccessible to many residents. This led to their final decision to seek an injunction.

This article highlights the potential social and environmental impacts of a new warehouse complex on a marginalized community, addressing the environmental injustice of the project- which relates the issue to environmental science and sustainable development. Initially, I questioned why access to information and decision-making were not guaranteed, much less accessible. This then made me question who is majorly involved in the decision-making processes to approve such projects that disproportionately affect members of marginalized communities. I also reached the conclusion that an order to stop any continuation of the project would be the most equitable option, in agreement with the environmental groups.