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Adrian Martin, Iokiñe Rodríguez, Nicole Gross-Camp, Vasudha Chhotray, Hannah Gray, Brendan Coolsaet, Teresa Armijos, Gareth Edwards, Oliver Springate-Baginski (Educator), and Stephen Amiss

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is designed for people who are already working on environmental problems or are familiar with environmental issues. It seeks to address environmentalists around the world although a background on international development will be useful. You can use the hashtag #FLenvjustice to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

Read more

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is designed for people who are already working on environmental problems or are familiar with environmental issues. It seeks to address environmentalists around the world although a background on international development will be useful. You can use the hashtag #FLenvjustice to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

  • Why environmental justice?
  • Justice as multi-dimensional
  • Principles of justice
  • Is justice political?
  • Odisha case study
  • A political activist’s perspective
  • EJ Atlas
  • Water justice
  • Forest governance from a local perspective
  • Biodiversity conservation
  • Climate justice
  • Forest governance from a global perspective
  • Participatory video
  • Life plans

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Reviews summary

Academic look at environmental justice

According to learners, this course offers a solid academic grounding in the complex field of environmental justice. Students found the content to be thought-provoking and appreciated the inclusion of real-world case studies like Odisha. The multidisciplinary approach, touching on politics, law, and social issues, was a highlight for many. While some felt the pace was challenging or that it required significant prior knowledge, overall feedback suggests it provides a valuable foundation for understanding the topic.
May be challenging without background.
"As someone relatively new to environmental studies, I found some parts quite challenging. It seems to assume a certain level of familiarity."
"The course description is accurate; if you don't have a background in environmental issues or development, you might struggle with the pace and depth."
"While valuable, it feels geared more towards those refining their understanding rather than complete beginners."
Found materials like videos effective.
"The video lectures were engaging and easy to follow, breaking down complex ideas effectively."
"I enjoyed the mix of videos, readings, and activities. The participatory video module was a unique highlight."
"The course uses different formats which helped keep my attention and learn in different ways."
Integrates various fields effectively.
"I loved how the course wove together aspects of environmental science, politics, law, and social justice. It felt very comprehensive."
"The course explores environmental justice from multiple angles, which is crucial for understanding its complexity."
"It's not just about the environment; it's about power, equity, and activism, and the course handles this breadth well."
Uses real-world examples to illustrate concepts.
"The Odisha case study was particularly insightful and brought the abstract concepts of justice down to earth."
"I appreciated the different case studies presented; they made the material much more relatable and easier to grasp in practice."
"Looking at specific examples like water justice and forest governance through real-world lenses was very effective."
Prompts critical thinking on key issues.
"The course really makes you think critically about what justice means in an environmental context."
"It challenged some of my preconceived notions and opened my eyes to new perspectives on climate and biodiversity."
"I found myself constantly reflecting on the materials and how they apply to current events."
Provides a strong introduction to core concepts.
"This course gives you a really good academic overview of environmental justice. It covers the history, principles, and political aspects."
"I found the course content to be very thorough and well-structured. It built my understanding step-by-step from foundational ideas."
"It really helped me organize my existing knowledge and fill in gaps I didn't realize I had about the theoretical underpinnings."

Career center

Learners who complete Environmental Justice will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 45 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Environmental Justice.
Classic work on nonviolent resistance. It provides a detailed overview of the theory and practice of nonviolent resistance, and it includes case studies of successful nonviolent campaigns from around the world. Sharp leading expert on nonviolent resistance, and his book is essential reading for anyone who wants to learn more about this topic.
Considered a foundational text in the environmental justice movement, this book provides a historical and sociological analysis of environmental racism in the American South. It is essential for gaining a broad understanding of how race and class intersect with environmental issues and is often used as a core text in academic courses.
Provides a broad overview of key conservation biology concepts, making it an excellent starting point for gaining a general understanding of the topic. It is designed to be accessible to a global readership, including students with English as a second language. It covers essential topics and is often used as a textbook in undergraduate and graduate conservation courses.
A widely used textbook, this book offers a comprehensive introduction to conservation biology, covering theory, applied research, and connections to related fields like ecology and climate change. It's suitable for both undergraduate and graduate students seeking to deepen their understanding. The book emphasizes the active role of various stakeholders in conservation.
Provides a vital history of Indigenous resistance to environmental injustice and land dispossession. It argues for an "Indigenized environmental justice" framework and is essential for understanding the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities and their historical and ongoing activism.
This textbook offers a thorough exploration of conservation biology principles, covering threats to biodiversity and various conservation approaches. It's suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate students and is known for its comprehensive coverage and real-world examples.
Offers in-depth research and case studies illustrating how environmental racism is embedded in urban planning and policy. It is crucial for deepening one's understanding of the systemic causes of environmental injustice and is highly relevant for students and professionals in urban studies, sociology, and environmental policy.
Part of the 'Very Short Introduction' series, this book offers a concise and accessible overview of biodiversity conservation. It's an excellent starting point for beginners to grasp the fundamental concepts and importance of the field.
Tracing the origins and growth of the environmental justice movement, this book highlights the role of grassroots activism through compelling case studies. It's excellent for understanding the historical context and the power of community organizing in fighting environmental injustice.
Revised and updated version of Rawls's earlier work, *A Theory of Justice*. It further develops his theory of justice and responds to some of the criticisms that have been raised against it.
Examines the psychological roots of political polarization. Haidt argues that people are divided by politics and religion because they have different moral intuitions. He draws on research from psychology, neuroscience, and evolutionary biology to support his argument.
Argues that the end of the Cold War markiert the end of history. Fukuyama argues that liberal democracy has triumphed over all other forms of government, and that the future will be characterized by peace and prosperity. This book controversial and influential work of political philosophy, and it has been widely debated by political activists.
Provides a practical guide to dictatorship. Bueno de Mesquita and Smith argue that dictatorships are not simply evil regimes, but rather rational actors who are trying to stay in power. They provide a detailed analysis of the different strategies that dictators use to stay in power, and they offer advice on how to overthrow a dictatorship.
Provides a detailed account of the Zapatista movement in Mexico. Holloway argues that the Zapatistas are a unique and important example of a revolutionary movement that is based on indigenous culture and values. He provides a detailed analysis of the Zapatista's political philosophy and their strategies for social change.
This Pulitzer Prize-winning book explores the current extinction crisis, providing a compelling and accessible look at the impact of human activity on biodiversity. It's highly relevant to contemporary conservation discussions and offers valuable context for the urgency of the topic. While not a textbook, it's a crucial read for anyone wanting to understand the scale of the problem.
Serves as a comprehensive introduction and overview of environmental justice, covering key concepts, debates, and historical milestones. It is designed as a textbook and is highly suitable for upper-level undergraduates and graduate students seeking a structured understanding of the field.
Explores the cognitive and health impacts of environmental hazards on marginalized communities, particularly focusing on the link between environmental racism and public health. It's highly relevant for those interested in the health equity aspects of environmental justice.
While not a textbook, this book offers a powerful personal perspective on the decline of nature and a hopeful vision for the future. David Attenborough's reputation and the book's compelling narrative make it a must-read for understanding the emotional and global significance of biodiversity loss.
Directly addresses the intersection of climate change and racial injustice, arguing that the climate crisis reinforces existing racial inequalities. It's a crucial read for understanding contemporary environmental justice issues within the context of climate change.
Through an in-depth case study of a Black community's fight against industrial pollution, this book illustrates the challenges and resilience in seeking environmental justice. It provides a grounded perspective on the realities of environmental racism and community activism.
Introduces the concept of intersectional environmentalism, linking environmental justice with racial and social equity. It's a contemporary take on the topic, offering practical steps for creating a more inclusive and sustainable future, making it relevant for a wide audience, including those new to the topic.
Provides a historical analysis of how concepts of race and hygiene have shaped environmental inequalities in the U.S., linking the idea of whiteness with cleanliness and its impact on marginalized communities. It's useful for understanding the deep historical roots of environmental racism.
Focusing on a critical aspect of conservation, this book provides comprehensive coverage of the governance and management of protected areas worldwide. It's highly relevant for those interested in the practical implementation of conservation strategies.
This introductory text provides a solid foundation in both the theory and practice of biodiversity and conservation. It includes international case studies and good resource for undergraduates starting in the field.
Focusing on the politics of garbage in Chicago, this book examines how waste management disproportionately affects vulnerable communities and highlights the activism against environmental injustice. It's a strong case study for understanding urban environmental justice issues.
Written by the former President of Ireland and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, this book shares stories of individuals and communities on the front lines of climate change and their fight for justice. It provides a global perspective and highlights the human impact of climate change through a justice lens.
Explores the legal and ethical dimensions of climate change in relation to vulnerable populations, including future generations, Indigenous peoples, and wildlife. It's valuable for understanding the broader implications of environmental injustice in a changing climate.
Enric Sala, a National Geographic explorer, makes a compelling case for protecting nature based on its intrinsic value and the essential services it provides. It's a accessible and engaging book that reinforces the importance of biodiversity conservation for human well-being.
This edited volume delves into a range of important and often contemporary topics in conservation biology, offering diverse perspectives from various experts. It's useful for gaining a broader understanding of current research and challenges in the field.
This historical work analyzes the influence of race, class, and gender in the American conservation movement, revealing often overlooked narratives of marginalized groups. It provides essential background for understanding the broader environmental movement within which environmental justice emerged.
Explores the role of emotion in political decision-making. It argues that emotions play a major role in how we form our political beliefs and how we vote. Westen neuroscientist who has studied the brain activity of political activists. His book provides a fascinating look at the intersection of neuroscience and politics.
Argues that Western civilization is in decline. Spengler traces the history of Western civilization from its origins to its present day, and he argues that it is now in its final stages. This book classic work of political philosophy, and it has been influential in shaping the thinking of many political activists.
Based on Primack's 'A Primer of Conservation Biology,' this book adapts conservation concepts to the specific context of South Asia, offering valuable regional case studies and insights. It's particularly useful for students and professionals focused on this biodiverse region.
Explores the integration of equity and social justice into urban sustainable development, offering a feminist perspective on 'just sustainabilities'. It's highly relevant for those interested in contemporary urban environmental justice challenges and solutions.
This work examines the relationship between environmentalism and economic justice, particularly in the context of Chicano/a communities. It offers a critical perspective on how these movements intersect and diverge, contributing to a deeper understanding of the complexities within environmental justice struggles.
Offers an overview of key concepts, evidence, and political aspects of environmental justice, including international case studies. It's a good resource for gaining a broad understanding and is suitable for undergraduate level study.
Considered a foundational text, this book was instrumental in establishing conservation biology as a distinct field. While an older publication, it provides essential historical and conceptual background. It's more valuable for understanding the origins of the discipline than for current reference.
Libertarian critique of Rawls's theory of justice. Nozick argues that justice requires that individuals be free to acquire and dispose of property as they wish, and that the state should not interfere with this freedom.
Presents different viewpoints on key debates within conservation, reflecting the dynamic and sometimes contentious nature of the field. It's useful for understanding the complexities and diverse perspectives in contemporary conservation discussions.
This controversial book challenges traditional views on invasive species, arguing that they can sometimes play a positive role in ecosystems. It's a thought-provoking read that dives into contemporary debates in conservation.
Explores the implications of globalization for justice. Pogge argues that globalization has led to a new set of global injustices, and that we need to develop new theories of justice to address them.

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