How do Environmental Issues Disproportionately Affect Different parts of our Society? Why is this so? How does this Fact Negatively impact People and the Planet – Part I

Ms. Diana Lopez and Dr. John Balbus join Healthy Living Healthy Planet Radio.

Diana Lopez begins the conversation by defining Environmental Racism, Social Equity, and Environmental Justice. There is an inherent lack of consideration for vulnerable communities and people of color when implementing infrastructure, factories or military bases that pollute the environment and the people living nearby. In regard to equity and the disproportionate impacts of pollution on communities of color and low-income populations, there is a vast difference not only in access to healthcare but also in the impact of air, water, soil, etc. pollution. Diana also speaks to the voices left out of the conversations about issues that impact them most, for reasons spanning from meetings held only in English, to lack of equitable transportation and beyond. Solving these social inequities leads us to truly solving climate change. We must address the root of the problem with Climate Justice, to conquer Climate Change.

Dr. Balbus reminds listeners about the importance of the climate justice movement including all voices, not just a select few. This is important because our country has had a long history of inequitable solutions and conversations about climate change. As a public health leader, Dr. Balbus shares the importance of looking at the downstream health effects, and the vast disparity in asthma, diabetes, & cancers in people of color and impoverished communities. While some claim these disparities may be caused by “lifestyle choices,” Dr. Balbus notes that this point of view incorrectly assumes there are equal and equitable choices and opportunities across the board. In regard to COVID-19, people who have pre-existing conditions caused by Climate Change Pollution, such as air pollution, are more susceptible. Disproportionate exposure leads to disproportionate vulnerability and susceptibility. When disparities already exist, and a harmful event such as a virus, hurricane, or wildfire occurs, it is far more difficult for these communities to recover. As a result, communities of color and vulnerable communities face devastating losses, of their homes, traditions, and culture when they are displaced or unable to recover from climate disasters or health crisis as a result of lacking adaptive capacity due to inequitable systems.

The inequities and injustices are spanning. Tune in next week for Part II.

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