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 pollution, toxic waste sites, and climate change impacts are not evenly distributed, often correlating with socioeconomic status and race. This framework challenges traditional environmentalism, which frequently prioritizes wilderness preservation over human well-being. Instead, it advocates for equitable policies that consider the voices of affected populations in decision-making processes. Recent studies highlight that integrating local knowledge with scientific data leads to more sustainable and fair outcomes. However, critics note that the term's broad application can dilute its political potency, as governments may adopt superficial measures without addressing systemic inequalities. Thus, environmental justice remains a dynamic and contested field, reflecting deeper societal struggles over resource allocation and power.