An environmental injustice I am quite passionate about relates to communities impacted by the formation of fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are an important energy source for us but can leave negative impacts and consequences where they are formed. Bigger industries in charge of fossil fuel formation are often not the ones directly affected by the pollution in the area. In the future, I envision local communities to have the opportunity to speak out and have a bigger influences on the decisions made on the land around them. It is unjust to have those living in the area to not have a voice and to bear the brunt of the damage done by the negative consequences of forming fossil fuels. Air pollution can lead to damaged crops, forests and wildlife, and water pollution can endanger the water quality for the locals.
I may be wrong, but currently it seems both equity and equality are not present for many smaller groups in many situations. I hope this can change in the future and more equity can be seen between bigger corporations and smaller groups- whether its by bringing more awareness to the negative consequences on the environment, or by the addition of a law that states an educated representative must be present when these decisions are made.
I agree with your point on the need for more equity in the future. Bigger corporations are naturally more powerful and have more sway in terms of what they can do in the area, whether it be a new pipeline or new processor. Therefore, policies should be enacted to constrain the actions of these mega-industries, and allow more sustainable alternative options to develop and hopefully reduce the reliance on fossil fuels.
Hi destinie! I agree with your point that larger corporations are drowning out the voices of smaller communities. There should be a system in place to ensure equity or equality for these smaller communities.
I like the idea that there needs to be educated representatives when decisions are made. Because it does seem like a lot of issues stem from not having it.
It is also important to note that oil companies have some of the largest shareholder equity and wealth in this world. Oil rich and oil exporting countries such as Canada, Russia, the US and many more are highly reliant on trading and refining oil as a means of wealth generation. I'm sure that you can name some of the biggest oil companies in the world. It's important to keep this in mind when we are consuming products, as they still drive large parts of the world.
Great point! I think it is important for all of us to understand that local community leaders truly do know what is best for the people they live side-by-side with. That being said, consulting them on important issues is definitely the route to take if we want just decisions to be made!
I agree the lack of everyone having a voice in the environmental issues can lead to injustices.