Intersection of Racism and Environmental Exposure

Abstract

Environmental racism has been a systemic injustice that has been rooted in society for many generations due to discriminatory policies, economic inequality, and neglect by political authorities. Environmental racism is manifested in scenarios where marginalized communities, particularly Black, Indigenous, and low-income populations are put at higher risk of pollution and environmental hazards. Existing literature offers several definitions of the term “environmental racism” that dates to the 20th century. For example, Pulido (1996) defines environmental racism as a broad set of concerns regarding the interconnected relationship between marginalized groups and environmental issues. Moreover, Johansen (2020) argues that environmental racism and the pursuit of justice against it intertwine ecological problems with issues of race and class, involving poor, often racial minority communities whose residents are subjected to disproportionate levels of ecological disturbance (such as water and air pollution, as well as unsustainable use of natural resources). The effects of environmental racism include health complications, socioeconomic consequences, and environmental degradation, to mention a few.