The intricate interplay between energy consumption, climate change, and human rights is a pressing narrative affecting our daily lives. Fueled by conventional sources, our insatiable energy demand poses a dual challenge, threatening the delicate balance of the planet. The concept of energy security unveils the vulnerability of our energy infrastructure to the unpredictable effects of climate change, with fossil fuels contributing to both emissions and geopolitical tensions. This nexus profoundly impacts vulnerable communities, where reliable energy is crucial for basic needs. Climate-related disruptions directly infringe upon human rights, from access to essential services to the fundamental right to life. Extreme weather events increase mortality rates, creating a palpable connection between climate change, energy security, and human rights.  The implicit right to a healthy environment is also at stake, as pollutants from energy production affect global warming and public health, disproportionately impacting those with fewer resources. The narrative emphasizes individual responsibility in making sustainable choices to reduce carbon footprints, while urging governments and corporations to prioritize sustainable energy policies, invest in renewables, and address climate impacts on vulnerable communities.  The interconnected challenges of energy production have become a compelling narrative, stressing the urgency of caring for the planet as a means of safeguarding human rights and ensuring a sustainable future for all. Join Host Bernice Butler, Luke Metzger of Environment Texas, Brenda Brickhouse, with EPRI and Jeffrey Rissman of Energy Innovation as they discuss the impact of climate change on energy security & human rights. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

In the ongoing shift towards a cleaner and more sustainable future, renewable energy emerges as a crucial lifeline for our planet and personal well-being. This discussion explores the challenges and opportunities inherent in adopting renewable energy sources, emphasizing the direct impact on our daily lives.  The consequences of our reliance on fossil fuels extend beyond environmental concerns, affecting our health and ecosystem balance. This discussion underscores the interconnectedness between consumer choices and global environmental issues, emphasizing the collective responsibility we share.  Renewable energy, encompassing solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power, offers tangible solutions. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, we can improve air quality and respiratory health. Additionally, renewable sources promote energy independence, community empowerment, and economic growth through job opportunities.  The transformative potential of the renewable energy sector extends to industry innovation and economic stimulation. Government policies, including incentives and subsidies, play a pivotal role in accelerating renewable adoption. Embracing renewable energy is portrayed as a journey towards a cleaner environment, a resilient lifestyle, and a commitment to a sustainable future. The opportunities presented by renewable energy are not abstract but intricately woven into the fabric of our daily decisions, offering a pathway to a healthier and more vibrant life for individuals and future generations.  Join Host Bernice Butler and Pierre Conner of Tulane University’s Energy Institute as they unpack and explore our future Energy production and consumption landscape. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

Modern living relies on energy to power daily routines, impacting both the environment and personal well-being. Energy-efficient homes emerge as solutions, blending comfort with environmental responsibility. Leveraging advanced technologies and renewable sources, these homes minimize waste and reduce carbon footprints, benefiting inhabitants' health. The prevalent use of fossil fuels in energy production poses severe health risks, releasing pollutants that affect respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Additionally, fossil fuel extraction contributes to resource depletion and environmental imbalances, endangering public health. Recognizing the interconnection between daily life and energy consumption is crucial. Urgency to address fossil fuel dependency intensifies considering rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource depletion. Embracing energy efficiency and renewables safeguards the planet for future generations and preserves present health and wellness. Informed choices illuminate a path to a healthier, more sustainable future, emphasizing the profound impact of our decisions beyond mere convenience.  Join Host Bernice Butler as she explores and unpacks the intersection of Energy Production and Consumption with our Health with David Turcotte with Lowell Healthy Homes Program and Maria Chavez with the Union of Concerned Scientists. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

In our daily lives, energy is the vital force powering homes, transportation, and industries. The escalating threat of conventional energy sources to the environment demands an urgent shift to clean energy. This imperative, driven by goals such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving public health, and creating economic opportunities, stems from the environmental toll of fossil fuels. Energy consumption directly impacts the planet's health, making the transition to clean energy crucial. It involves not just adopting renewable sources but a holistic shift in consumption and production efficiency. Embracing energy-efficient technologies, from appliances to smart home systems, contributes to a sustainable future.  The urgency to address both consumption and production is underscored by immediate climate change consequences. Experts emphasize a critical juncture, urging a swift transition to adapt to existing changes. Progress has been slow, with the U.S. Department of Energy projecting 80% clean electricity by 2030, shy of the 100% goal by 2035. To achieve this, reliance on fossil fuels must end, and investments in clean, accessible, affordable, sustainable, and reliable energy sources are crucial. The clean energy imperative unfolds in everyday choices, emphasizing individual actions in consumption and production as integral to the larger narrative of change. Join Bernice Butler and Emily Beagle from the Webber Energy Group at UT Austin and Rana Adib with the Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century as they unpack and explore a holistic approach to energy for our everyday lives. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

Plastic pollution, often overlooked, profoundly affects our lives, health, and the planet. Plastics can take up to 500 years to break down, posing significant threats to human health as microplastics enter the food chain. This pollution permeates air, water, and food, posing a direct threat to health and ecosystems. Shifting plastics from one area, like oceans, may exacerbate disparities, as burning them releases harmful chemicals affecting nearby communities. Humans face exposure through inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact, leading to various health issues. Efforts to address plastic pollution involve stakeholders like governments, nonprofits, and businesses exploring innovative solutions. Advanced recycling technologies break down plastic waste for new materials, while biodegradable and compostable plastics offer eco-friendly alternatives. Circular economy initiatives promote recyclability, creating a closed-loop system. Past attempts, like traditional recycling, fell short due to contamination and limited demand. The path to a plastic-free future involves individual choices, encouraging conscious stewardship for ourselves and the planet. It requires understanding that seemingly insignificant decisions reverberate through the interconnected environment, influencing our quality of life.  Join Host Bernice Butler as she talks with Rob Koenen of The Boxed Water Company, Jackie Nuñez with Plastic Pollution Coalition and Win Cowger with the Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research, as they explore how our everyday action can significantly impact Plastic Pollution. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

Plastics, while transforming modern life, pose severe threats to the environment and human health. With a global production of 7 billion tons, a mere 9% is recycled, leading to widespread pollution in landfills and oceans. The report "Plastic Not-So-Fantastic" highlights the enduring nature of plastics, with every piece ever produced lingering in some form today. Microplastic infiltration into the air, water, and food supply poses an invisible threat, with studies revealing human exposure through various avenues.  Scientific research on plastic's health impacts is evolving, indicating exposure to toxic chemicals and microplastics. The World Wildlife Fund estimates an average person ingests about 5 grams of plastic weekly, raising concerns about cumulative health risks. Documented effects range from cancer to reproductive and cognitive impairment, breathing difficulties, kidney disease, and cardiovascular issues.  Plastic pollution extends beyond humans, affecting marine life and ecosystems. Microplastics from everyday products and hormone-disrupting chemicals like BPA exacerbate the problem. Addressing plastic pollution demands collective action, heightened awareness, and innovative solutions to protect the environment and human well-being. It's a call for individuals, communities, and policymakers to reassess their relationship with plastic for a sustainable future.  Join Host Bernice Butler and Anja Brandon and Samantha Romanick as they unpack and explore how Plastics and Plastic Pollution impacts our human health --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

The daily disposal of plastic waste, including items like coffee cup lids, wrappers, and containers, poses a significant environmental threat. In 2021, global trash generation reached 400 million tons, with the U.S. contributing 51 million tons, only recycling 2.4 million tons. Plastics, derived from fossil fuels, undergo an energy-intensive process emitting greenhouse gases. Plastic pollution harms wildlife, habitats, and human populations, with synthetic plastics constituting 95% of all plastics ever made.  Plastics, introduced commercially in the 1950s, offer convenience but have a low recovery rate compared to materials like glass and paper. Inefficiencies in recycling, attributed to processing challenges, hinder their reuse. Plastic's exponential production since the 1950s, driven by qualities like ease of shaping and low cost, comes at a significant cost to health and the environment.  Plastic's impact on sea life is well-documented, but increasing studies focus on its effects on human health, fertility, land ecosystems, crops, and plants. Plastic's main ingredients originate from oil and natural gas, with additives containing hazardous substances. Plastic packaging, with over 4,000 chemicals, poses risks to human health, demanding a reconsideration of reliance on this pervasive material and a commitment to sustainable alternatives.  Join Host Bernice Butler with Mary Johnson from Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health and Nena Shaw with the EPA to explore and unpack this phenomenon. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

The intersection of environmental and health endeavors is epitomized by two significant initiatives: The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change Report and COP28. The Lancet Countdown serves as a vital analysis, comparable to the championship of Health and Climate Change impact assessments. It meticulously connects the dots between health and climate, providing evidence-based science crucial for understanding the consequences of climate change on your health. Recognizing the interdependence of human health and the planet, this report serves as an indispensable guide for individuals navigating the era of climate change.  COP28, the recent climate summit in Dubai, stands as a beacon of global collaboration to address the climate crisis. Leaders worldwide gathered to strategize on cleaner energy sources, combat air pollution, and support vulnerable nations grappling with climate challenges.   Understanding these initiatives is crucial for individuals navigating the complexities of daily life amidst climate change repercussions. The Lancet Countdown informs about the health impacts, urging individuals to recognize the tangible effects already happening. COP28, on the other hand, symbolizes global unity and commitment, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individual actions and international efforts. Both endeavors underscore the urgency for informed choices, local engagement, and global cooperation to secure a healthier planet and better quality of life for current and future generations.  Host Bernice Butler talks with Jodi Sherman, Dave McGlinchey and Liz Willets to unpack and explore the everyday impacts of  science based reporting and planning for our future by local and world leaders. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

This episode explores the concept of zero waste, which aims to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, incinerators, and the ocean, and to increase the reuse, recycling, and composting of materials. Zero waste is not only good for the environment, but also for the economy and society, as it saves resources, energy, money, creates jobs, and improves health and well-being. The episode also discusses the economics of waste management, which examines the costs and benefits of different waste management options, such as prevention, reduction, reuse, recycling, recovery, and disposal. Join Host Bernice Butler and guest Ruth Abbe and Gary Liss from Zero Waste USA, as they invite listeners to reflect on their own consumption and disposal habits, and how they can adopt a more sustainable and circular lifestyle. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

The escalating concern of electronic waste (e-waste) is exemplified by its rapid growth and potential environmental and health hazards. The Global E-waste Monitor 2020 reveals a disturbing trend, projecting a staggering 100% increase in global e-waste to reach 74 metric tons by 2030. This surge is propelled by higher consumption rates, short product life cycles, and limited repair options. The toxicity of electronic components, vital for functionality, poses a significant risk when discarded, underscoring the need for careful handling. Despite the substantial generation of e-waste, the recycling rate is suboptimal. In 2018, an estimated 2.7 million tons of consumer electronics were produced in the United States, with only 38.5% recycled, leading to the disposal of 1.66 million tons in landfills. The decline in the recycling rate from 25% in 2009 to 23.9% in 2018 raises concerns about responsible waste management. Then the question becomes – of the material recycled, what is the efficiency and efficacy of the recycling method and processes.  Children, in particular, face heightened vulnerability to the toxic substances in e-waste due to their smaller size and underdeveloped organs. However, amidst these challenges, e-waste presents an opportunity for resource recovery. Precious metals like gold, silver, and rare earth elements can be extracted for reuse, contributing to a circular economy.  Understanding and addressing the pervasive issue of e-waste is crucial for environmental protection, human health, and resource efficiency. Responsible and sustainable e-waste management, including recycling, can mitigate environmental impacts, create jobs, and reduce the demand for virgin materials and energy. Taking proactive measures is essential to curb the escalating metric tons of e-waste generated globally.  Join Host Bernice Butler and guests Callie Babbitt and Rudiger Kuehr as they unravel and unpack some of this. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

Hazardous, chemical and toxic waste is any waste that can harm human health or the environment. It can come from many sources, such as industries, households, farms, hospitals, mines, and military sites. It can also be in many forms, such as liquids, solids, gases, or sludges. Hazardous waste can affect us and the environment  by contaminating the soil, water, and air that we need for food, drinking, and breathing; by exposing us to chemicals, metals, radiation, or infections that can cause diseases, cancers, or genetic disorders. Hazardous waste can enter our body through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, and damage our organs, tissues, or cells. But we can prevent and reduce hazardous waste by our every day actions and activities such as choosing products that are safe, durable, reusable and recyclable, and avoiding unnecessary or impulsive purchases and using products wisely and efficiently, and following the instructions for storage, use and disposal, among many others. By understanding and addressing hazardous wastes’ impact on our health and our environment  we can contribute to the sustainability and well-being of ourselves and the planet.  Join Host Bernice Butler and experts Elif Kongar and Dele Ogunseitan as they explore and unpack Chemical, Hazardous and Toxic Waste. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

Waste, an inevitable outcome of human activities, poses significant environmental and health consequences across various categories, including municipal solid waste, hazardous waste, industrial waste, and more. The quantity and nature of waste generated are influenced by factors like economic growth, population size, and consumption habits. Developed countries, such as the U.S., typically produce more waste per capita.  The generation of waste signifies inefficient use of resources, making waste reduction crucial for achieving sustainability and a circular economy. Strategies to achieve this include preventing waste, reusing and repairing products, recycling, composting, and recovering energy from waste. These approaches not only minimize environmental impacts but also conserve resources, save energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and stimulate job creation.  Despite efforts to reduce waste, not all can be avoided or recovered, necessitating proper waste disposal methods. Common disposal methods, like landfills, incinerators, and open dumps, come with significant environmental and health risks such as groundwater contamination, air pollution, and disease transmission. Waste management emerges as a complex and dynamic challenge requiring integrated and holistic solutions. Involving multiple stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society, and consumers.  Addressing technical, social, economic, and environmental facets, waste management becomes an opportunity to build a more sustainable and resilient society.   Join Host Bernice Butler as she talks with Liz Goodwin with the World Resources Institute and Claudia Fabiano with the EPA to explore and unpack  the health and environmental impacts of our waste generation and management of it. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

Wildfires, though not a weather phenomena, are linked to weather, often ignited by lightning, and capable of generating their own weather patterns. Global incidents in Chile, Australia, California, and Canada underscore the destructive impact of uncontrolled fires. In the American West, widespread wildfires are becoming the norm, with increasing frequency since the 1980s. The U.S. witnessed over 9.8 million acres burned in the past year alone. While wildfires play a natural role in ecosystem renewal, they also pose threats such as habitat destruction, air pollution, and the release of greenhouse gases.  Wind significantly influences wildfires, contributing to fire whirls and firestorms. Fire whirls are spinning columns of hot air carrying flames, while firestorms generate winds and thunderstorms, creating their weather systems. Wind directs the fire's spread, and its speed determines the fire's pace, shape, and intensity. Different fire behaviors result from wind dynamics.  Wildfires have increased in frequency and intensity since the 1980s, and are projected to continue rising. Some Western ecoregions have year-round fire seasons. Wildfires release carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming.  The combination of fire and wind presents risks to lives, property, and ecosystems, necessitating awareness and preventive measures. Recommendations include creating defensible spaces around homes, using fire-resistant materials, adhering to fire restrictions, staying informed about fire and weather conditions, and following authorities' instructions during wildfires. Human activities and climate change can exacerbate wildfires, emphasizing the importance of understanding fire and wind dynamics and implementing preventive measures to mitigate their impact.  Join Host Bernice Butler as she explores and unpacks Fire & Winds at the intersection of Wildfires with Deepti Singh and Jennifer Marlon. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

Extreme weather events, particularly heat waves, are no longer abstract concerns but tangible threats impacting our lives. This discussion aims to unveil the profound implications of extreme heat on physical, mental, and communal well-being, emphasizing its interconnectedness with our daily lives.  Every facet of our well-being, from the air we breathe to the water we drink, is intricately tied to the health of our planet. Extreme heat and heat waves signify undeniable shifts in our climate, affecting communities, homes, and bodies in often unrecognized ways.  Beyond the discomfort of scorching summer days, these events alter the very air composition, making it harder for our bodies to cool down and leading to a surge in heat-related illnesses. Moreover, extreme heat contributes to broader disasters like droughts and wildfires, wreaking havoc on agriculture, ecosystems, and the economy.  Urban areas, susceptible to the urban heat island effect, experience prolonged high temperatures, exacerbating energy demands, air quality issues, and health hazards. Recognizing that extreme heat and heat waves are interconnected with various environmental and societal aspects, the call to action is urgent.  Mitigating these impacts necessitates a collective effort, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving water and energy, enhancing urban planning, improving emergency preparedness, and raising awareness. By uniting in these efforts, we can safeguard ourselves, our communities, and our planet from the detrimental effects of extreme heat and heat waves, forging a resilient and sustainable future for current and future generations.  Host Bernice Butler explores and unpacks some of this with Kristi Dahl of the Union of Concerned Scientists and Catharina Guidice an ER Physician in Los Angeles. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

Climate change is a pressing challenge with profound implications for our economy, prompting a comprehensive exploration of its intersection with economic factors. This discussion seeks to elucidate the far-reaching effects of climate change and the potential roles of policy, economics, and individual actions in mitigating its impact.  The economic consequences of climate change are not abstract; they directly influence our daily lives and financial well-being. Extreme weather events, on the rise, lead to economic fallout, impacting communities through increased insurance premiums, strain on local services, and disruptions to crop yields affecting grocery prices.  However, embracing sustainable practices offers economic opportunities. The shift to a greener economy creates jobs in renewable energy, fosters innovation, and stimulates economic growth. Supporting eco-friendly businesses and demanding sustainable products allows individuals to drive positive change in the market.  Governments play a crucial role in addressing economic consequences. Policies targeting greenhouse gas emissions, carbon pricing, and incentives for renewable energy aim to reduce the economic impact of climate change and foster sustainable growth. Economists contribute by identifying effective, cost-efficient policies for emission reduction.  Individuals also play a significant role. Consumer choices, such as supporting eco-friendly products and businesses, send powerful signals to the market. This discussion emphasizes that understanding the economic dimensions of climate change is accessible to everyone, urging mindful consumption as a means of contributing to a collective movement toward sustainability.  Host Bernice Butler explores and unpacks the economics of Climate change with Dr. Michael Mann, University of Pennsylvania, Adam Kent, Natural Resources Defense Council and Angela Betancourt, Net Zero. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

Climate change stands as one of the most urgent challenges confronting our world today, demanding a collective effort from all individuals to address its impacts. Despite its seemingly remote nature, climate change is not a concern relegated to future generations but is actively shaping our daily lives. The imperative for immediate action is underscored by the escalating effects of rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and ecological shifts, all of which directly influence our health, well-being, and communities.  While the discourse surrounding climate change is often dominated by scientific and global policy discussions, it is imperative to recognize its personal implications. The consequences of climate change, such as water scarcity, extreme weather events, health risks, food insecurity, and economic impacts, are tangible aspects affecting individuals on a daily basis. The air we breathe is increasingly at risk due to rising pollution levels, exacerbating respiratory illnesses. Heat waves, growing in frequency and intensity, pose severe health risks, particularly in urban areas.  Understanding these personal ramifications is crucial for fostering a sense of urgency among ordinary individuals navigating their daily lives. Climate change is no longer an abstract threat; it is a palpable force shaping our immediate surroundings.  Individuals must recognize the interconnectedness of their actions, community dynamics, and global initiatives. Daily choices, from consumer habits to energy consumption, contribute to the broader narrative of climate change. International forums such as the COP meetings play a pivotal role in aligning nations and fostering collective action.  As well, Global collaboration is essential in addressing climate change, as isolated responses from nations would lead to dire consequences, burdening different regions unevenly and hindering global progress.   Listen in with Dave McGlinchey & Michael Oppenheimer on Adapting to Climate Change & Mitigation Strategies. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

Human-caused climate change is underway, with widely acknowledged impacts such as sea ice loss, accelerated sea-level rise, and more intense heat waves. Some effects, like droughts and wildfires, are occurring faster than anticipated. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) states that observed changes are unprecedented and irreversible for centuries. Future outcomes hinge on human actions; increased greenhouse gas emissions will lead to severe global consequences, but emission reduction efforts may mitigate the worst effects.  The current warming rate is unprecedented in the past 10,000 years, and human influence on climate change has transitioned from theory to established fact since the 1970s, according to the IPCC. Climate change, coupled with other health stressors, affects human health, intensifying existing threats and giving rise to new ones, with vulnerability influenced by factors like age, economic resources, and location.  Climate change's immediate and pervasive impacts on health, such as severe storms and heat waves, can be deadly, while long-term consequences include increased heart disease, respiratory issues, vector-borne diseases, and reduced access to clean water and food.  Amidst the  wars currently gripping our global attention, the urgency of climate change might seem less apparent, but it poses imminent threats to health and safety. Climate change concerns are widespread among the U.S. population, with seven in ten adults fearing harm to health. A majority believes that various entities, including businesses and governments, are not doing enough to address the issue. Recognizing the immediate and far-reaching consequences, action is imperative to safeguard health in the face of climate change. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

In the midst of our hectic lives, it's easy to overlook the intricate dance of climate change affecting everything from the air we breathe to the food we eat. Beyond the common association with melting ice caps, climate change, driven by increased greenhouse gas emissions from human activities, manifests in extreme weather events, altered precipitation patterns, rising sea levels, and disruptions to ecosystems.  The impact of climate change is closer to home than we often realize. Extreme weather events disrupt daily routines, affecting transportation and home safety. Changes in agricultural patterns due to climate change influence the availability and affordability of the food we consume, impacting crop yields and prices. Water scarcity becomes a consequence as precipitation patterns shift and glaciers melt, affecting drinking water, agriculture, and industry.  The economic implications of climate change are vast, from increased healthcare costs due to heat-related illnesses to the financial toll of extreme weather events on communities. Understanding the science is just the beginning; the real question is why we should care. The personal stake in climate action is significant. Ensuring a stable climate safeguards the availability of essential resources, from clean air and water to reliable food sources, thereby preserving our quality of life and that of future generations.  Climate action is a collective effort, involving sustainable practices, support for clean energy initiatives, and advocacy for responsible policies. By understanding the science and recognizing our personal stake, we empower ourselves to be agents of change. It's not just about saving the planet; it's about securing a better, healthier, and more prosperous future for ourselves and generations to come. The urgency to act is not just for the planet but for the very fabric of our everyday lives. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

Environmental justice is a pressing concern that transcends borders, focusing on fair treatment for all, regardless of their background. It has its roots in the 1960s civil rights and social justice movements, notably events like protests by Latino farm workers in California, African-American students in Houston, and residents of Harlem, NYC, advocating for their communities' well-being.  The pivotal moment often associated with the environmental justice movement was the 1982 protests in Warren County, NC, where residents protested the relocation of contaminated soil to their predominantly Black county. While their efforts were not immediately successful, they sparked a nationwide movement supported by data showing hazardous waste sites disproportionately located near Black and Latino communities.  Today, environmental justice continues to evolve and integrate into public policy. It encompasses a broader perspective of the environment, considering where people live, work, play, learn, and pray. This inter-generational, multi-racial, and international movement advocates for justice by linking economic, environmental, and health issues and demanding safe, clean communities and workplaces.  Key issues in environmental justice include equitable resource distribution, rectifying historical disparities, addressing climate change's unequal impact, and improving public health outcomes. Historically marginalized communities, often low-income and minority populations, have faced environmental hazards without access to the benefits of a clean environment. Climate change exacerbates existing inequalities, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups.  The connection between environmental justice and health is undeniable. Exposure to environmental hazards has severe health consequences, with disadvantaged communities facing higher risks due to their proximity to industrial facilities and limited healthcare access.  Join host Bernice Butler and guest Michael Gerrard and Maya van Rossum to look at current and emerging trends in environmental justice and climate justice issues. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support

The location of polluting facilities in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color has severe economic and health consequences. These marginalized areas suffer from higher rates of asthma, heart attacks, and premature death, perpetuating poverty and limiting opportunities across generations. This injustice has far-reaching effects, as highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, exposing the interconnectedness of environmental and health disparities. The environmental justice movement, which emerged in the 1980s, shed light on the link between pollution, race, and poverty. An illustrative case was the 1978 illegal dumping of hazardous chemicals in North Carolina, where a landfill was placed in a predominantly black and impoverished area, despite protests. Subsequent academic research has delved into the correlations between environmental injustices and various measures, revealing inefficiencies resulting from discrimination. From an economic perspective, environmental justice is vital because it examines how environmental discrimination leads to market inefficiencies. While equity is essential, economics focuses on efficiency and serves as a tool for policymakers and society to enhance decision-making and rectify market failures. The multifaceted nature of environmental injustice demands comprehensive solutions. Climate justice further emphasizes the need for equitable distribution of the burdens and benefits of climate change resolution, promoting fairness between and within generations. Climate change exacerbates challenges faced by those impacted by environmental injustices. Rob Verchick and Ed Barbier join Hot Bernice Butler unpack the economic implications of environmental and climate justice at the nexus of health. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-radio/support