Theory: Environmental Racism

Environmental racism refers to the unfair treatment of people, primarily people of color and low-income communities, who are more likely to live near harmful environmental hazards like factories, waste sites, or polluted air and water. This occurs due to policies, practices, and social structures that prioritize the interests of wealthier or predominantly white communities, leading to unequal exposure to environmental risks. As a result, affected communities often face higher health problems and diminished quality of life, highlighting systemic inequalities in environmental decision-making and resource distribution.