雅思阅读

📖 Reading Passage

The concept of 'environmental justice' emerged in the late 20th century as a response to the disproportionate burden of environmental hazards borne by marginalized communities. Research has consistently shown that low-income neighborhoods and ethnic minority groups are more likely to be situated near polluting facilities, such as industrial plants and waste disposal sites. This phenomenon is not merely a matter of geographic coincidence; it stems from historical patterns of land use, zoning policies, and the political marginalization of these communities. Environmental justice advocates argue that such disparities violate basic principles of fairness and human rights. They call for policies that ensure equitable distribution of environmental benefits and burdens, meaningful public participation in environmental decision-making, and recognition of the unique cultural and historical ties that communities have to their environments. While progress has been made in some regions, systemic inequalities persist, and the growing impacts of climate change are expected to exacerbate existing vulnerabilities.