Living in a healthy environment is a fundamental right. Yet, far too many communities, especially those that are low-income or predominantly communities of color, bear the brunt of environmental pollution. If you or your community has been harmed by environmental injustice, you might wonder about your legal options and whether compensation is possible. The answer, often, is yes.
An environmental justice lawyer recognizes that everyone deserves equal protection from environmental hazards and the right to live in healthy communities. When this right is violated, legal action can be a powerful tool to seek justice, hold polluters accountable, and secure compensation for damages suffered.
What is Environmental Justice and Why Does it Matter?
Environmental justice is a movement and a field of law that addresses the disproportionate environmental burdens marginalized communities face. These burdens often include living near hazardous waste sites, polluting industrial facilities, or experiencing contaminated air and water.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines environmental justice as “the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.” (https://www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice/learn-about-environmental-justice)
The concept is rooted in the understanding that environmental harms are often linked to systemic inequalities. For example, historically, discriminatory housing policies have led to communities of color being disproportionately located near sources of pollution. This has created what is often referred to as “environmental racism.”
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The Devastating Health Impacts of Environmental Injustice
The consequences of environmental injustice are often severe and far-reaching, particularly regarding public health. Exposure to toxic pollutants can lead to a wide array of health issues.
- According to the American Public Health Association, “Environmental exposures have been linked to various damaging health issues, including cancer, asthma and other respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disease, neurological diseases, and developmental disabilities.” (https://www.apha.org/topics-and-issues/environmental-health/environmental-justice)
- Children are especially vulnerable to these impacts. For example, children born near Superfund sites are more likely to repeat a grade, have lower test scores, and be suspended from school. (https://blog.nwf.org/2025/03/epas-decision-to-shutter-its-environmental-justice-and-civil-rights-office-puts-communities-at-risk/)
- Data from the Economic Policy Institute shows that communities of color and low-income communities face greater exposure to air pollution. In tracts with at least 60% people of color, nearly three-quarters (72.6%) of those who are 20-40% low income have greater potential exposure to fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) compared to their state’s average (https://www.epi.org/blog/how-trumps-erasure-of-environmental-data-is-endangering-communities-of-color/).
This highlights a clear pattern of disproportionate burden.
READ: What Is the Environmental Justice Movement?
Seeking Environmental Justice Through Legal Action
When environmental injustices occur, legal recourse becomes essential. Our legal system offers pathways to challenge harmful practices, demand cleanup, and secure compensation for those affected. This often involves filing lawsuits against polluting entities or even governmental agencies.
Key areas where legal action can make a difference include:
- Property Damage: Contamination can significantly reduce property values and render homes unsafe.
- Health Damages: Individuals suffering from illnesses linked to environmental exposure may seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Loss of Quality of Life: Communities may experience diminished enjoyment of their environment due to pollution, odors, or fear of contamination.
- Cleanup and Remediation Costs: Legal action can compel responsible parties to fund the cleanup of contaminated sites.
One notable example of environmental justice litigation is the Flint Water Crisis.
In 2021, a historic $626 million settlement was approved to compensate residents affected by lead-contaminated water in Flint, Michigan. (https://www.ceb.com/environmental-justice-case-law-key-decisions-and-future-directions/)
This case underscores the potential for significant compensation when environmental negligence leads to widespread harm.
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The Role of Civil Rights Laws in Environmental Justice Cases
While environmental law provides a framework, civil rights laws are crucial in fighting environmental racism and injustice. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, for instance, prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance.
As Attorney General Eric Holder stated, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” (https://www.justice.gov/archives/opa/speech/attorney-general-eric-holder-speaks-environmental-protection-agency-s-martin-luther-king)
This sentiment resonates deeply within environmental justice, as the fight often involves protecting the rights of vulnerable populations. Legal challenges have utilized Title VI to argue that permitting decisions for polluting facilities discriminate against communities of color.
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How an Attorney Can Help You Get Compensation
Navigating the complexities of environmental law and civil rights litigation requires experienced legal guidance. An attorney specializing in environmental justice cases can:
- Investigate Your Claim: Gather evidence of pollution, its source, and its impact on your health and property.
- Identify Responsible Parties: Determine which corporations, government agencies, or other entities are liable for the harm.
- Assess Damages: Calculate the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses, lost income, property devaluation, and other non-economic damages.
- Negotiate Settlements: Work to achieve a fair settlement that compensates you for your suffering without a lengthy trial.
- Represent You in Court: If a settlement cannot be reached, vigorously advocate for your rights.
If you believe you’ve been affected.
Securing environmental justice compensation is not just about financial recovery; it’s about holding polluters accountable, deterring future harm, and affirming every community’s right to a safe and healthy environment. Taking legal action can be a critical step toward healing and positive change.
Contact us today to take the first step toward justice.
About Ben Crump Law
Renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump founded Ben Crump Law PLLC, believing justice equals respect. His firm is devoted to advocating for the voiceless of our society whenever or whatever kind of harm may have befallen them. From personal injury to labor and employment matters to class action lawsuits and many other types (click to view all practice areas), our attorneys are dedicated to holding the powerful accountable for their actions.
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