Green Justice Here and Now: North Carolina’s Role in Advancing Environmental Justice
The environmental justice movement seeks to ensure that all individuals—regardless of race, income, or background—are treated equitably in environmental decision-making and are protected from disproportionate exposure to environmental hazards. Historically, marginalized communities have been subjected to unsafe environmental practices, often without the power or resources to resist.
A Movement Rooted in North Carolina
North Carolina holds a significant place in the history of environmental justice. In 1982, the rural community of Warren County became the epicenter of a major nonviolent protest against the siting of a hazardous waste landfill. This demonstration, which resulted in over 500 arrests, united environmental and civil rights advocates and is widely recognized as the catalyst for the national environmental justice movement.
Defining Environmental Racism
The term environmental racism was coined by North Carolina native Reverend Benjamin Chavis Jr., who described it as a systemic issue—beyond individual prejudice—that poses critical threats to the health and safety of communities of color.
Environmental racism refers to policies, practices, or conditions that result in the disproportionate burden of environmental hazards on Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color. Manifestations include:
- The placement of polluting facilities in minority neighborhoods
- Inadequate infrastructure for climate resilience
- Health disparities stemming from prolonged environmental exposure
Case Study: Charlotte’s Historic West End Green District
In 2017, CleanAire NC, in collaboration with local stakeholders, established a Green District in Charlotte’s Historic West End. This initiative was designed to address air quality, reduce emissions, and promote environmental equity. Efforts have included the installation of electric vehicle charging stations, the development of green infrastructure, and the strategic placement of trees—marking meaningful progress toward a healthier, more sustainable community.
Continuing the Work
Although progress has been made, achieving true environmental justice requires continued commitment and engagement. Individuals can support this work by partnering with organizations such as:
- Sol Nation
- Sustain Charlotte
- CleanAire NC
- The Black Girl Environmentalist Collective
Additionally, civic engagement—through voting, participating in public forums, and advocating for inclusive policies—remains essential in protecting vulnerable communities and ensuring that environmental justice becomes a reality for all.
