雅思阅读

📖 Reading Passage

The concept of 'environmental justice' emerged in the 1980s, highlighting the disproportionate burden of environmental hazards borne by marginalized communities. Unlike traditional environmentalism, which often focuses on wilderness preservation, environmental justice prioritizes human well-being, especially for low-income and minority groups. Research has shown that polluting facilities, such as waste treatment plants and factories, are frequently sited in these neighborhoods, leading to higher rates of respiratory diseases and other health issues. This pattern is not accidental but often results from systemic inequalities in land-use planning, zoning laws, and political representation. Addressing environmental injustice requires not only regulatory reforms but also empowering affected communities to participate meaningfully in decision-making processes. Scholars argue that without such inclusive approaches, environmental policies risk perpetuating existing social disparities rather than alleviating them.