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NEW PERSPECTIVES ON ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Environmental justice is a crucial aspect of contemporary environmental discourse, focusing on the equitable distribution of environmental benefits and burdens among all societal groups. This field has evolved significantly since its inception, with increasing attention given to how environmental policies and practices affect marginalized and underserved communities. The concept of environmental justice emerged prominently in the 1980s, largely influenced by grassroots movements in the United States that highlighted how environmental hazards disproportionately impacted minority and low-income communities (Bullard, 2020). These early movements set the stage for a broader understanding of environmental justice, which now encompasses various dimensions including social, economic, and environmental equity (Schlosberg, 2018).

Recent scholarship has expanded the definition of environmental justice to include global perspectives, recognizing that environmental injustices are not confined to specific national boundaries but are a global phenomenon (Pellow, 2019). This global perspective is increasingly important in understanding how international trade, climate change, and global policies impact different regions unevenly. For example, research has shown that low-income countries and marginalized communities often bear the brunt of environmental degradation caused by activities in more developed nations (Gibson-Graham, 2021).

The advancement of environmental justice theory has also led to a deeper exploration of intersectionality, which examines how various forms of social stratification—such as race, class, and gender—interact with environmental issues (Taylor, 2021). This perspective is crucial for understanding the multi-dimensional nature of environmental injustices and for developing more inclusive and effective policy responses.

One of the most significant recent developments in environmental justice research is the increased focus on climate justice, which addresses how climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations and how policies can be designed to mitigate these impacts (Cohen & Gough, 2022). This includes examining how climate change intersects with other forms of social inequality and ensuring that adaptation and mitigation strategies are equitable and just.

Moreover, the rise of digital technologies and social media has transformed the landscape of environmental justice activism, providing new platforms for marginalized communities to voice their concerns and advocate for change (Sze & London, 2020). These technologies have also enabled more comprehensive data collection and analysis, leading to a better understanding of environmental injustices and more targeted interventions.

As the field of environmental justice continues to evolve, it is essential to consider how new perspectives and emerging issues are shaping the discourse. This includes exploring the implications of technological advancements, international policies, and the intersection of various social inequalities. By examining these aspects, this study aims to contribute to a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of environmental justice.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the growing recognition of environmental justice, many communities continue to experience disproportionate environmental harms due to systemic inequities. These injustices are often exacerbated by inadequate policy responses and lack of meaningful community engagement. The problem lies in understanding how these disparities persist despite increasing awareness and what measures can be implemented to address them effectively.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to determine how new perspectives on environmental justice can address ongoing disparities and promote more equitable environmental policies. Specific objectives include:

i. To evaluate the impact of global environmental policies on marginalized communities.

ii. To determine the effectiveness of intersectional approaches in addressing environmental injustices.

iii. To find out how digital technologies are shaping environmental justice activism and policy responses.

1.4 Research Questions

i. What is the impact of global environmental policies on marginalized communities?

ii. What is the effectiveness of intersectional approaches in addressing environmental injustices?

iii. How does digital technology influence environmental justice activism and policy responses?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

Hypothesis I

H0: There is no significant impact of global environmental policies on marginalized communities.

H1: There is a significant impact of global environmental policies on marginalized communities.

Hypothesis II

H0: There is no significant effectiveness of intersectional approaches in addressing environmental injustices.

H2: There is a significant effectiveness of intersectional approaches in addressing environmental injustices.

Hypothesis III

H0: There is no significant influence of digital technology on environmental justice activism and policy responses.

H3: There is a significant influence of digital technology on environmental justice activism and policy responses.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it provides insights into how new perspectives on environmental justice can enhance policy-making and activism. By examining the impact of global policies, intersectional approaches, and digital technologies, the study aims to identify strategies for achieving more equitable environmental outcomes and fostering inclusive community engagement.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The scope of this study includes an analysis of global environmental policies, intersectional approaches to environmental justice, and the role of digital technologies in shaping environmental justice activism. The study focuses on recent developments and trends from 2018 to the present, with a particular emphasis on their implications for marginalized communities.

1.8 Limitations of the Study

The study may be limited by the availability of comprehensive data on the impact of global policies and intersectional approaches. Additionally, the rapidly evolving nature of digital technologies and environmental justice discourse may pose challenges in capturing the most current trends and issues.

1.9 Definition of Terms

Environmental Justice: A field of study and activism focused on addressing the disproportionate environmental harms experienced by marginalized communities and ensuring equitable distribution of environmental benefits.

Intersectionality: A framework for understanding how various forms of social stratification, such as race, class, and gender, interact and contribute to complex forms of inequality.

Digital Technologies: Tools and platforms, such as social media and data analytics, that influence environmental justice activism and policy-making.