“Sacrifice of environmental justice communities results when people and communities are deprived of the right to determine their own economic, political and cultural futures.”
– COVID-19 and Environmental Justice: A Call to Action.
When we envision pollution-stricken communities, we often conjure images of distant shores marred by plastic waste or remote villages overshadowed by towering landfills. The plight of poor communities grappling with pollution is a familiar narrative, albeit one that may seem distant to many. Yet, the truth is, the detrimental effects of pollution are not confined to far-off lands—they’re likely unfolding right in our own cities.
The COVID-19 pandemic has unveiled yet another layer of environmental injustice, with its aftermath leaving behind a surplus of pollution. While there may be fewer vehicles on the roads, the waste generated by our society has surged. And, as has been the case time and again, it is the most vulnerable among us who bear the brunt of these environmental burdens: the low-income communities.
Throughout history, these communities have served as dumping grounds for a myriad of pollutants, from litter to hazardous chemicals. They often find themselves in close proximity to chemical plants and factories emitting toxins into the air. The cumulative effect of these factors translates into chronic exposure to air pollutants, foul odors, and contaminants seeping into the soil.
Merely residing in these areas can lead to a host of lifelong health conditions, affecting both children and adults, ranging from respiratory ailments like asthma to severe conditions such as lead poisoning and cancer. It comes as no surprise then, that these communities are disproportionately impacted by the ravages of COVID-19. Compounding these challenges is the stark reality that many of these families lack health insurance or disposable income, rendering them even more vulnerable. It’s an injustice that these communities have been dubbed “sacrifice communities.”
Environmental justice cannot exist without social justice.
A July 2020 Call to Action shed light on this systemic issue, highlighting how disinvestment in environmental justice communities has perpetuated polluted air and water, limited access to healthcare, healthy food options, and paid sick leave, as well as exacerbated crowded living conditions that hinder social distancing efforts.
In New Jersey, legislative efforts are slowly underway to address these disparities through a proposed “cumulative impacts bill.” This bill seeks to hold companies accountable by requiring them to apply for expanded permits when planning to establish facilities in vulnerable communities. These permits would assess whether new facilities would exacerbate existing environmental or public health stressors in overburdened communities, which are defined by higher concentrations of low-income residents, non-English speakers, and people of color. The Department of Environmental Protection would be empowered to reject permits that further burden these vulnerable areas.
How can we contribute to change?
Raise awareness: Spread the word about environmental justice issues and the disproportionate impact of pollution on marginalized communities.
Support businesses owned by people of color: Empower our most marginalized communities economically.
Donate: Contribute to organizations working towards environmental justice and supporting impacted communities.
Vote: Exercise your right to vote for candidates who prioritize environmental and social justice issues. Your vote matters now more than ever, as the decisions made in the coming years will shape the future of our planet and its inhabitants.
While no candidate may be perfect, it’s essential to support those who demonstrate a commitment to protecting civil rights and the environment. Every vote counts in the fight for a more just and sustainable future.
Let’s stand in solidarity with the communities most impacted by environmental injustice and work towards a world where everyone has the right to a clean and healthy environment.
Sources:
Google Docs: Title VI Statement
The Intercept: What Racism Smells Like
NY Times: The Trump Administration Is Reversing 100 Environmental Rules. Here’s the Full List.
Further Reading:
Trump Administration Reverses Bottled Water Ban In National Parks
Zero Waste California 