Course Description
The history, science, and policy related to domestic and global environmental justice. Students will quantify environmental burden, disproportionate exposures, and health disparities; investigate the social, political, economic, and physical processes that can deny justice; and discuss the community-based movements that advance positive change.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate students will be required to complete assignments with a greater level of analysis, length, and detail compared to undergraduate students. Includes two exams, three assignments, one paper, one presentation, and class participation. The following assignments will differ for graduate students:
- Assignment #2: Students utilize the Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) database to answer questions concerning toxic emissions and disproportionate exposures. Additionally, graduate students will include a one-page analysis of the TRI’s ability to fulfill the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). Clear and concise arguments and proper citations must be utilized.
- Assignment #3: Students participate in civic engagement, service, or advocacy related to an environmental issue and provide a short reflection on their participation. Graduate students will also be required to make a presentation to the class that includes a description of the activity.
Athena Title
Environmental Justice
Undergraduate Pre or Corequisite
ENGR 2110 or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Identify built environment and socio-economic impacts on human health, health disparities, and the natural ecology Estimate the impact of environmental factors on human health and natural ecology Evaluate technological and policy options that reduce exposures and improve ecological and human health outcomes Understand behavioral factor's impacts on human health and health disparities Learn cultural contexts in which engineers and public health professionals work Practice critical thinking and creativity Consider ethical decision-making as related to self and society Exercise teamwork and leadership
Topical Outline
What are Environmental Justice and Racism? Historical Context and EJ Theory Hurricane Katrina and Inequitable Exposures Identifying Root Causes of Health Disparities Water Contamination and the Flint Water Crisis Petroleum Pollution and International Trade Mining Issues, Fracking, and “Greenwashing” Community Engagement in Research Air Pollution Exposures and Transportation Justice Government Regulation and Legal Strategies for EJ Our Food System and Food Justice Using EJ Tool Kits Climate Justice EJ Successes and Toward a Just Sustainability