Environmental Challenges and Social Justice

The video discusses how cities in the U.S. are segregated by race and wealth, leading to unequal access to resources and exposure to pollution. It highlights how environmental policies often benefit wealthier areas, leaving poorer communities still suffering. The video also addresses broader inequities in rural areas and on a global scale, where indigenous and low-income communities face environmental injustices. It emphasizes the need for environmental justice and reimagining systems to address these inequities, linking social justice to environmental issues.

What factors contribute to the segregation of people in different parts of a city?

• Weather conditions

• Race, language, and wealth

• Proximity to schools

• Access to public transportation

What is a common feature of wealthier parts of a city?

• Green spaces and organic food stores

• Hazardous waste facilities

• Heavy-duty diesel ports

• Industrial sites

What is a typical characteristic of poorer and more diverse city areas?

• Low levels of air pollution

• High-end grocery stores

• Proximity to pollution-emitting freeways

• Abundant green spaces

What historical policies have contributed to urban segregation?

• Race-based zoning and housing policies

• Universal healthcare policies

• Public transportation policies

• Educational reform policies

Why do environmental policies often fail to help disadvantaged communities?

• They focus on reducing noise pollution

• They are not enforced by law

• They benefit already affluent areas

• They are too expensive to implement

What is a common consequence of resource extraction in rural areas?

• Increased tourism

• Improved air quality

• Economic prosperity for local communities

• Air and water contamination

What is a common outcome for communities near resource extraction sites?

• They receive financial benefits

• They suffer from environmental contamination

• They experience improved infrastructure

• They have increased job opportunities

How are small island nations affected by climate change?

• They have more agricultural opportunities

• They experience increased rainfall

• They face rising sea levels

• They benefit from warmer temperatures

What is a key reason why social justice is considered an environmental issue?

• It focuses on urban development

• It addresses economic disparities

• It highlights the link between social inequities and environmental harm

• It promotes renewable energy

What is a significant challenge faced by small island nations due to climate change?

• Lack of fresh water

• Decreased tourism

• Increased agricultural output

• Forced migration due to land submersion