Black Alabamans Urged Officials to Stop a Plant Polluting Their Neighborhood
Black Alabamans Urged Officials to Stop a Plant Polluting Their Neighborhood – Mother Jones Mother Jones
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Living Conditions in Africatown: A Battle Against Pollution
Walter Moorer observes fumes emitted from the Hosea Weaver asphalt plant near Chin Street in the historic Black community of Africatown.Patrick Darrington/Inside Climate News
This report highlights the living conditions in Africatown, a historic Black community in Alabama, and the battle against pollution caused by the nearby Hosea Weaver asphalt plant. The residents, including Walter Moorer, have been subjected to the stench, pollution, noise, and dust emanating from the plant for over 20 years. This article emphasizes the importance of addressing these environmental issues in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Background
Africatown, founded by former slaves brought to America on the Clotilda, the last known slave ship to arrive in the country, has a long history of industrial pollution. The construction of the Hosea Weaver asphalt plant near Chin Street has significantly impacted the community’s quality of life. Residents like Moorer remember a time when they could enjoy a vibrant community free from the negative effects of the plant.
Environmental Impact
The Hosea Weaver asphalt plant has been a major source of pollution in Africatown. Tests conducted by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) revealed that the facility was emitting excessive amounts of particulate matter, a harmful pollutant. Exposure to particulate matter can lead to various health complications, including lung cancer and respiratory issues. The plant also releases other pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide and volatile organic compounds.
The emissions from the plant have had a devastating impact on the health and well-being of the residents. Moorer and other nearby residents have filed numerous complaints with local officials, but the company has continued to operate. The failure to address these concerns has taken a toll on Moorer’s life and well-being.
Public Opposition and Legal Action
The residents of Africatown, supported by environmental organizations such as the Mobile Environmental Justice Action Coalition (MEJAC), have been actively opposing the renewal of Hosea Weaver’s operating permit. They argue that the company should be designated as a “major source” emitter under the Clean Air Act due to its excessive pollution levels. MEJAC and other organizations have also raised concerns about ADEM’s failure to protect the civil rights of the disproportionately affected minority community.
Despite overwhelming public opposition and evidence of environmental violations, ADEM granted the permit to Hosea Weaver. This decision has further deepened the residents’ frustration and sense of injustice.
Call for Change
The residents of Africatown, including Moorer and his neighbors, continue to fight for their rights and demand a healthier living environment. They want the plant to be shut down or relocated away from their community. The support of environmental organizations and the broader community is crucial in addressing these environmental injustices and achieving the SDGs.
It is essential for regulatory agencies like ADEM to prioritize the well-being of communities and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. The fight against pollution in Africatown highlights the need for stronger environmental protections and the promotion of sustainable development.
By addressing the concerns raised by the residents of Africatown and implementing sustainable solutions, we can work towards a cleaner, healthier, and more equitable future for all.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- SDG 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
- SDG 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
- SDG 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator for SDG 3.9: Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to air pollution.
- Indicator for SDG 11.6: Ambient air pollution levels in cities.
- Indicator for SDG 13.1: Number of people affected by climate-related hazards and disasters.
- Indicator for SDG 16.7: Proportion of population who believe their voice is heard in decision-making processes.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. | Indicator: Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to air pollution. |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management. | Indicator: Ambient air pollution levels in cities. |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries. | Indicator: Number of people affected by climate-related hazards and disasters. |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | Target 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels. | Indicator: Proportion of population who believe their voice is heard in decision-making processes. |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: motherjones.com
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