Can we solve the climate crisis without confronting global inequities?
A recent study in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA found that white residents in the USA produce more climate pollution than black or hispanic residents, but black and hispanic people are exposed to more air pollution.
And that is just the USA! Think about the global inequities in the "haves" and the "have nots".
And how are we going to lift people out of poverty without making the climate crisis even worse?
If you are a resident in a wealthy country, is it your responsibility to address both problems at once? And what would that look like in terms of national and international policy?
Environmental Justice >
Waste-reduction and recycling
In densely populated urban areas, waste reduction and recycling are crucial for managing environmental impact and improving public health. Cities with large populations generate vast amounts of waste, putting immense pressure on landfills and waste disposal systems. By implementing robust recycling programs and encouraging waste reduction, urban centers can significantly decrease the volume of waste sent to landfills, conserving valuable space and reducing methane emissions. This not only lowers the environmental footprint but also creates economic opportunities through the recycling industry, providing jobs and promoting a circular economy. In high-density cities, reducing single-use plastics, expanding composting initiatives, and incentivizing businesses to adopt sustainable packaging can help mitigate waste. Moreover, with a large population to educate and engage, city-wide efforts can cultivate a culture of sustainability, inspiring residents to adopt long-term habits that reduce consumption and waste.
https://www.epa.gov/recycle/reducing-and-reusing-basics