This petition aims to propose the establishment of an International Day of Environmental Justice on October 27 each year. This date commemorates the anniversary of the adoption of the Principles of Environmental Justice in 1991. 

Usually, environmental justice is regarded as a component or dimension of social justice. While both concepts aim to promote fairness and equality, there are differences between them. Social justice is a broader concept and encompasses various aspects of human rights and equality, whereas environmental justice specifically deals with environmental issues and their impact on communities.

Specifically, the social justice movement focuses on achieving equality and fairness in society by addressing issues such as racial equality, gender equality, economic equity, and the fair treatment of all individuals regardless of their background. It aims to ensure that every group or individual receives a fair share of social, economic, and political benefits. In contrast, the environmental justice movement aims to prevent marginalized communities from bearing a disproportionate share of negative environmental consequences, such as climate change, pollution, and exposure to environmental hazards. It seeks to ensure the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people in relation to environmental laws, regulations, and policies. 

Compared to the traditional social justice movement, a spotlighted environmental justice movement will have several strengths in promoting environmental justice and sustainable development, including a focused agenda, emphasis on community engagement, integration of environmental and socioeconomic issues, influence on environmental policy, and impact on health and well-being. These strengths will make it better equipped to tackle specific environmental concerns including climate change.

The declaration of an International Day of Environmental Justice can help to raise global awareness about the impacts of such issues as climate change, air and water pollution, and industrial pollution on vulnerable communities. It can play a crucial role in recognizing the need to promote environmental justice, highlighting the intersection of environmental and social issues, and advocating for the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people in environmental laws, regulations, and policies. The Day also helps to advocate for policies that promote environmental equity and improve the health and well-being of affected communities by addressing environmental injustices and climate injustice.

Critical facts about climate injustice  

1.  Since 1990, the top 1% of the world population has caused 23% of cumulative emissions growth, while the bottom 50% has caused only 16%.

2.  Since 1990, the per-capita emissions of the top 1% of the world population have been steadily increasing. 

3.  In 2019, the top 10% of the world population accounted for 48% of global greenhouse gas emissions, while the bottom 50% contributed only 12% of the total.

4.  Overall, the top 10% of the world population accounts for 56% of vehicle fuel consumption and 70% of vehicle purchases.

5.  Low-income communities, people with disabilities, older adults, children, and women are more vulnerable to climate impacts like storms, floods, extreme heat, air pollution, and water shortage.

Milestones of the environmental justice movement  

The environmental justice movement originated during the civil rights movement of the 1960s-1970s. It was observed that communities of color and low-income communities often faced higher levels of pollution and environmental hazards.

In 1979, Black Americans in Houston, Texas, discovered that the state planned to permit a solid-waste facility in their community. This sparked debates on environmental racism and inspired the environmental justice movement.

In 1982, the Warren County PCB Landfill protests in North Carolina brought national attention as residents opposed placing a hazardous waste landfill in their predominantly Black community.

In 1987, a report titled "Toxic Wastes and Race in the United States" provided statistical evidence that race was the key factor in determining where hazardous waste facilities were placed.

In 1991, the 17 Principles of Environmental Justice were established during the First National People of Colour Environmental Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C., outlining the movement's goals and values.

In 1992, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) initiated the Environmental Performance Reviews program.

In 1992, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published Environmental Equity: Reducing Risks for All Communities, marking the agency's initial systematic examination of environmental risks to communities of color.

In 1994: President Bill Clinton signed Executive Order 12898, the first order on environmental justice, which directed federal agencies to consider environmental justice in their programs and policies. This order aimed to address the unequal environmental impacts on minority and low-income populations.

In 1998, the Aarhus Convention was adopted under the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). This international treaty provides the public with rights related to information access, public participation in decision-making, and access to justice concerning environmental matters.

On August 29, 2002, the Bali Principles of Climate Justice were released.  

On May 28, 2024, the OECD Environmental Justice Report was published. 

Now, it is the right time to establish an International Day of Environmental Justice, to be observed annually.

You are welcome to sign and share this petition for the International Day of Environmental Justice. 

Dr. Alan Wang

Founder, CareOurEarth.com