Environmental Justice

by Sara Grunberg

February 3

Environmental Justice

Environmental justice is a movement that seeks to address the disproportionate impact of environmental degradation on marginalized communities, particularly low-income, Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) communities. These groups often bear the brunt of environmental pollution, climate change, and hazardous waste exposure, despite contributing the least to the causes of these issues. Historically, environmental policies and practices have tended to ignore or overlook the needs and voices of these communities, leading to higher rates of respiratory illnesses, cancers, and other health problems due to pollution, as well as increased vulnerability to the effects of climate change.

Unfortunately, there are many examples of environmental justice being exploited. One stark example of environmental injustice is the phenomenon of “sacrifice zones”—areas where hazardous industries and waste sites are disproportionately located near disadvantaged neighborhoods. For instance, in many urban centers, BIPOC communities live in close proximity to power plants, landfills, and factories, resulting in poor air and water quality. According to the EPA, African American children are nearly three times more likely to be hospitalized for asthma than white children, a harsh reminder of how environmental factors can directly affect health outcomes.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, environmental justice encompasses:

The just treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of income, race, color, national origin, Tribal affiliation, or disability, in agency decision-making and other Federal activities that affect human health and the environment so that all people:

• are fully protected from disproportionate and adverse human health and environmental effects (including risks) and hazards, including those related to climate change, the cumulative impacts of environmental and other burdens, and the legacy of racism or other structural or systemic barriers; and
• have equitable access to a healthy, sustainable, and resilient environment in which to live, play, work, learn, grow, worship, and engage in cultural and subsistence practices

The Guna people of Panama, particularly those living on the island of Gardi Sugdub, are being forced to abandon to leave their home island and relocate to the mainland due to rising sea levels caused by climate change. This marks the first instance of an indigenous community in Panama being displaced by climate change. Moving inland will significantly impact the Guna people’s traditional way of life, which has long been deeply connected to the ocean. This forced migration underscores the profound impact of climate change on vulnerable communities and their cultural heritage.

Typically, wealthier, more industrialized nations and individuals—who are historically the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions—tend to have the resources to protect themselves from the worst effects of climate change. Meanwhile, low-income communities, particularly those in developing countries or marginalized groups, who contribute far less to global emissions, are more vulnerable to climate-related disasters such as floods, droughts, wildfires, and extreme weather events. These communities often lack the resources to cope with climate-related disasters, making them more vulnerable to both immediate impacts and long-term health and economic consequences.

Investing in clean energy and divesting from fossil fuels is one example of a powerful solution to foster environmental justice and mitigate climate change. Redirecting funds into renewable sources like solar, wind, and geothermal can reduce climate impacts while creating millions of new jobs, especially in communities that need them most. This transition empowers marginalized groups, stimulates local economies, and builds resilience to environmental challenges. By investing in clean energy, we take an important step toward supporting vulnerable populations with sustainable opportunities that protect both people and the planet for future generations.

Environmental justice emphasizes the need for inclusive solutions that prioritize both people and the planet–emphasizing the need for policies that involve affected communities in the decision-making process. By empowering local communities, increasing environmental awareness, and advocating for fairer policies, environmental justice seeks to ensure that future generations inherit a world that is not only livable but also equitable.

This month’s “call to action” is to research local vulnerable populations and share with our community ways we can help both personally and communally. Please share what you learn with us. Email Maegen Anders at manders@sistersosf.org.