How does environmental science relate to social justice?

Humans have the greatest impact on the environment in a way that is harmful to communities, and individuals on Earth. Humans are the greatest contributors to climate change due to excessive resource consumption and pollution For example, burning fuels pollutes the air with harmful gasses that trap heat in the atmosphere (greenhouse gasses). Extreme weather events happen more frequently, the land becomes dryer, and ocean temperatures and levels are rising. Some communities have limited access to resources like water and oil due to social and economic disadvantages. Because of this, they are more vulnerable to weather events and the effects of climate change. The three main types of pollution air, water, and land impact how livable the environment is as the conditions weaken in quality.

With the worsening environmental state due to the sum of our decisions and actions over time, justice for our planet is a pressing issue that still needs to be combatted. AP Environmental Science leaves students more knowledgeable regarding this issue. The education that this class offers helps arm students with tools to understand and advocate for climate justice.