Foundations of Environmental Justice

The fair distribution of environmental burdens and benefits, focusing on ensuring everyone has access to a healthy environment, regardless of race, class, or ethnicity.

A movement aimed at fighting for the right to a healthy environment and combating environmental racism.

The disproportionate exposure of people of color to environmental hazards and pollution, often linked to historical and ongoing systemic discrimination.

The practice of incorporating Indigenous knowledge and governance into environmental decision-making, recognizing their deep understanding and stewardship of the land.

A movement that seeks to address the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalized communities.

The use of legal and political strategies to challenge environmental injustices, like lawsuits, advocacy, and community organizing.

Obstacles faced by environmental justice movements, including lack of funding, bureaucratic delays, and political opposition.

The idea that pollution and environmental harms are not evenly distributed, often impacting poor and marginalized communities the most.

The process of shifting investments away from fossil fuels and towards sustainable energy sources to combat climate change.

The right of Indigenous communities to control and manage their lands and resources, ensuring their voices are heard in environmental decision-making.

The 1982 protests in Warren County, North Carolina, against the dumping of hazardous waste in a predominantly Black community, brought national attention to environmental racism.

A 1987 report that documented the widespread disproportionate siting of hazardous facilities in communities of color, illustrating the environmental racism problem.

The 1991 summit brought together activists from diverse backgrounds, uniting them around the 17 Principles of Environmental Justice.

A key concept in environmental justice, it highlights how various social identities (race, class, gender, etc.) intersect and influence environmental burdens.

The case study of Chester, Pennsylvania exemplifies the intersection of race, poverty, and environmental hazards, illustrating the political economy of environmental racism.

The grassroots organization formed in Chester, Pennsylvania to address the environmental injustices faced by the community, primarily the siting of toxic waste facilities.

A group of students at various universities who formed a coalition to support the residents of Chester, Pennsylvania, raising awareness about environmental justice issues.

The process of systematically identifying, analyzing, and mitigating potential risks associated with environmental hazards, particularly in vulnerable communities.

The use of legal tools and strategies to challenge environmental injustices and hold polluters accountable.

The process of creating and enacting policies that promote environmental justice, ensuring fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all communities in environmental decision-making.

The persistent effort of community members to address environmental injustices, even in the face of challenges and setbacks, demonstrating the power of collective action.

The ability of communities to take control of their environmental issues, actively participating in decision-making processes and demanding their rights to a healthy environment.