Lesson 22 of 84 · Society and Change
⭐ 30 XP🤝 People CircleEnvironmental Justice
Environmental justice is a movement that seeks to address the unequal distribution of environmental benefits and burdens among different communities.
🎯 Your mission
Notice what's the same. Celebrate what's different.
⚡ The twist
What feels weird to you is normal to someone else — and that's the point.
Mind = Blown
🤯 Some cultures share food by hand from one big plate — and find forks weird.
Then & Now
🤝 You probably know someone whose story includes this.
Environmental justice is a movement that seeks to address the unequal distribution of environmental benefits and burdens among different communities. Often, marginalized groups face greater exposure to pollution and environmental hazards, while wealthier areas enjoy cleaner air and water. This issue highlights the intersection of social justice and environmental policy, advocating for policies that protect all communities regardless of their socioeconomic status. By promoting equitable access to clean environments, environmental justice aims to create a fairer society for everyone.
Key Facts
Environmental justice originated in the United States during the 1980s.
Communities of color are disproportionately affected by environmental hazards.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines environmental justice as the fair treatment of all people regarding environmental laws.
Check Your Understanding
Question 1
1 of 2What is the primary goal of the environmental justice movement?
Why this still matters
Walk through your neighborhood — every house has a different story.
Stretch Challenge
Try this in real life this week.
Learn how to say hello in three new languages.
For the dinner table
“Tell me about a tradition in our family — and where you think it came from.”
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