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A variety of factors — including economics, political power, and racism — can lead to unequal access to these basic conditions. In many communities, for example, industrial plants and landfills are situated within or close to low-income neighborhoods. As a result, these residents experience higher rates of asthma and other health problems than residents of wealthier neighborhoods. In addition to being disproportionately impacted by pollutants and other environmental problems, low-income groups and people of color are often left out of community change efforts.

Global climate change poses significant environmental justice concerns. With drought, rising sea levels, and other impacts of climate change, low-income communities and people of color would suffer disproportionately from economic loss, illness, forced migration, and wars. In effect, climate change amplifies existing inequalities (Bryant, Bunyan, et al).

Environmental justice is an essential component of sustainability. Building a sustainable society calls for equitable social structures as well as a healthier environment. As CEL cofounder Fritjof Capra explains, "Sustainability and environmental justice are really deeply connected. Living sustainably means recognizing that we are an inseparable part of the entire web of life.... Enhancing the dignity and sustainability of any one community will enhance all the others."

In the United States, lower-income and minority children suffer disproportionately from problems that schools often exacerbate. Nutrition-related diseases aggravated by poor school food, respiratory problems related to poor air quality in school buildings, and the effects of exposure to chemicals and pesticides lead to increased absenteeism, behavioral problems, and diminished learning. A sustainable school promotes the health and learning of all students, regardless of income or background, while helping them understand the relationship between environment, economy, and equity.

References cited in this article may be found in "References" in the Resources page of our website.