Social Perspective Paper

Words: 1214
Pages: 5

Social Perspective Through her discussion on the topic, Dale (2001) demonstrates that a vital part of developing a sustainable future is ensuring the social well being of citizens, and committing to environmental equity. Poverty, stemming from unemployment and reductions in social services, affects the way millions of people live globally (Dale, 2001). According to Dale (2001), because of steep population growth, the United Nations Population Division estimated that as many as two-thirds of the global population will live in crowded, urban areas by 2025. With more people brings increased concern about pollution, which can lead to depletion of the ozone layer and global climate change. According to Dale (2001), heavy air pollution in urban areas can also lead to increased health issues. Further, Agyeman et al. (2002) has stated that in America, negative environmental impacts disproportionately affect the poor, which raises the need for a focus on environmental equity. San Francisco has identified environmental justice as a major goal of the …show more content…
She asserts that governments often spend excessive amounts of money subsidizing harmful environmental actions, rather than subsidizing actions that reduce nonrenewable energy use (Dale, 2001). While many of our case study cities do not mention the elimination of counterproductive subsidies, several have made a strong effort to maximize the use of subsidies and tax incentives that encourage behavior that is healthy for the economy and environment. For example, New York City’s lawmakers are currently considering a bill to develop an incentive program for citizens who drive electric or other fuel-efficient vehicles (The City of New York, 2014). While policy should also be passed to de-incentivize citizens from driving high-pollution vehicles, this is a good place to