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. Scholars argue that these inequities are not accidental but result from systemic policies that prioritize economic growth over public health. For instance, industrial facilities and waste disposal sites are often located near low-income neighborhoods, leading to higher rates of respiratory diseases among residents. Recent studies have expanded the framework to include climate change, noting that developing nations, which contribute least to global emissions, suffer the most severe impacts. This has prompted calls for a redistributive approach, where the costs of environmental degradation are borne by those who benefit most from polluting activities. Critics, however, contend that such proposals overlook the complexities of global trade and the shared responsibility of all nations. Nevertheless, the principle of environmental justice continues to shape international policy debates, pushing for more inclusive decision-making processes.