Another unique component of the report is its study of industrial companies whose pollution has disproportionately affected low-income communities or communities of color. These results are particularly significant because they allow race and class to be taken into consideration when assessing corporate environmental responsibility. National Oilwell Varco, ExxonMobil and the Hess Corporation are among the top ten in both racial and socioeconomic toxic rankings. More than 50% of the health risk falls on people of color for each corporation.

While "Justice in the Air" highlights how medium-sized cities with heavy industry face the highest race and socioeconomic disparities with regards to air pollution, it also correlates with the conclusions that have been made from more general studies. The American Lung Association recently released a study containing a list of the most polluted cities, which include Los Angeles, Bakersfield, Sacramento, Dallas, and Houston. The power plants, refineries, industrial waste facilities, and freeways that pollute cities like Los Angeles are predominantly in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. Across the board, research is pointing to an important conclusion: if policymakers and organizations intend to work towards healthier and cleaner communities, they must recognize the existence of systemic environmental racism and classism. An effective environmental justice movement will consider the intersections of race, culture, class and geography in its creation and implementation of laws, regulations and policies.

For a wonderful and brief account of environmental justice activism happening in the Los Angeles area, check out this short film from the Sundance Channel about the work being done by Communities For A Better Environment (CBE). It interviews Executive Director Bill Gallegos and community organizer Roberto Cabrales about their work in fighting for cleaner air in Southeast LA.

part one:

photo credit: flickr