Environmental Hazards, Health, and Racial Inequity in Hazardous Waste Distribution

Abstract

This study addresses the critical issue of hazardous wastes and associated human health problems. The issue of inequitable distribution of environmental hazards by race is discussed with special reference to a municipal solid waste landfill and the petrochemical plants as the principal environmental stressors in the Baton Rouge Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area (SMSA). In a random sample of 213 respondents, the majority considered toxic wastes as a major threat to human health. Other findings indicate that whereas Blacks are most likely to reside near hazardous waste facilities, they express the same level of environmental concern as Whites. Thus, race is found not to be a significant factor in explaining environmental concerns and attitudes. The theoretical implication of findings and future research needs are discussed.