Climate Change and Systemic Environmental Racism
Publisher: Stanley Center for Peace and Security
Author(s): Emily Sample and Regina M. Paulose
Date: 2021
Topics: Climate Change, Conflict Causes, Governance, Peace and Security Operations, Protection and Access to Justice, Public Health, Renewable Resources
There are numerous reasons why dire warnings about climate change have not translated into urgent action. Among those factors, systemic racism has pervaded the creation of the climate crisis and the lack of response to it. In a new report, Emily Sample and Regina M. Paulose describe the global forces of colonialism, imperialism, and white supremacy that have driven us to the current climate emergency. They review the present state of climate and environmental diplomacy and highlight how even “green” energy projects may replicate racial injustice, particularly on the lands of Indigenous peoples. Read the full report, which makes the case that those who lead the fight against climate change must self-reflect on environmental history and the root causes of the climate crisis.