雅思阅读

📖 Reading Passage

The concept of 'environmental justice' emerged in the late 20th century, primarily in response to the disproportionate burden of pollution borne by marginalized communities. Scholars argue that such communities often lack the political and economic power to resist the siting of hazardous facilities, leading to a systematic pattern of environmental inequality. Empirical studies have shown that race and income are significant predictors of proximity to toxic waste sites, even after controlling for other factors. This has prompted policy shifts toward more inclusive decision-making processes, where affected residents are given a voice in environmental regulation. However, critics contend that mere procedural inclusion does not guarantee substantive equity, as deeper structural inequalities may persist. Thus, environmental justice remains a contested and evolving field, requiring both legal reform and grassroots activism to address its multifaceted challenges.