Environmental Science
Environmental Racism in the Siting of Hazardous Waste Facilities
Quick fact
A landmark 1987 report by the United Church of Christ showed that race was the most significant factor in the location of hazardous waste facilities—even surpassing income. Communities with high percentages of people of color hosted more dangerous facilities than wealthier, mostly white areas.
Why this is interesting
Why are America's most toxic waste sites so often found right next door to people of color? It's no accident—it's a pattern that reveals deep ties between race, power, and the environment.