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I have been privileged enough to make my first move to Europe via a scholarship. Most people would wonder "why" I moved here. In fact, If I was given a penny every time someone asked...Recently, I started reading The Odyssey of Ibn Battuta: Uncommon Tales of a Medieval Adventurer, and a passage got me reflecting. From the very beginning, the book touches on the idea that Europeans of the time (we're talking 13th / 14th century here) might have struggled to grasp the existence of such diverse and complex civilizations outside of Europe. And when I looked at the imaginary timeline of how historical events unfolded that involved Europeans colonising, robbing, and enslaving, some things started to fall into place.My critique of Europe comes from a place of care: I was raised here as a child, and raised again as an adult. My identity is complex and I owe it to my travels, moving countries with the EU, being a polyglot, and much more. So no, I am not interested in questions like the usual "then why don't you go back to where you came from?" but more questions like "how can we do better?"I migrated very young, on my own, with my own set of biases and misconceptions that, of course, I had to unlearn on the go. Yet the most surprising thing is what I learned over the years, and how my view of belonging in Europe changed drastically.I grew up in a society that glorifies Europe. The West in general, but mostly Europe for its geographical proximity. The European Union is often upheld, by many, as a beacon of democracy, prosperity, and human rights. From the towering ideals of the Enlightenment to the post-World War II project of peace and integration known as the European Union (EU), the continent claims to stand as a model for others to emulate. Yet, beneath this polished exterior lies a contradictory reality: one of historical amnesia, colonial legacy, racialised exclusion, and economic exploitation. In the following passages, I argue that Europe’s current social and economic order rests on a distorted version of its past and an ongoing system of neocolonial practices, especially in relation to migration and labour. I attempt to trace Europe's trajectory from the medieval period, through colonial conquest, to the present crisis in the Mediterranean, to expose how Europe became a "present sham"—a space where the dream of prosperity lures many, only to trap them in cycles of precarity and invisibility.<h3>&nbsp; &nbsp; Europe before Empire: A peripheral and underdeveloped continent</h3> Popular historical narratives position Europe as the centre of civilisation, but this Eurocentric worldview collapses under scrutiny. Before the 15th century, Europe was by no means the apex of global development. As Ibn Battuta’s 14th-century travelogues demonstrate, the Islamic world—stretching from Andalusia to Indonesia—boasted vibrant trade networks, advanced knowledge in medicine, mathematics, astronomy, and a rich cultural and intellectual life (Dunn, 2005). African empires like Mali under Mansa Musa had developed complex economic systems and cities such as Timbuktu, known for their universities and libraries (Levtzion, 1973).Meanwhile, Europe was recovering from the Black Death, plagued by violent feudalism, brutal religious inquisitions, and a lack of spices and goods from the East. As Dipesh Chakrabarty notes, the concept of superior European modernity erases the historical complexity of non-European societies (Chakrabarty, 2000). Europe's leap into global dominance began not through internal enlightenment but through external exploitation.<h3>&nbsp; &nbsp; Colonialism: The theft of wealth and humanity</h3> Europe's so-called Renaissance and Industrial Revolution were made possible by centuries of colonial violence. From the late 15th century, European empires expanded through “exploration,” which was in reality the violent subjugation of land and people. Slavery, extraction, and genocide underpinned this expansion. The transatlantic slave trade, led by Britain, Portugal, France, and the Netherlands, forcibly displaced over 12 million Africans (Eltis &amp; Richardson, 2008). Colonisers extracted not only raw materials but also dismantled local governance structures, destroyed indigenous knowledge systems, and imposed foreign legal and economic systems.Even as decolonisation movements gained ground in the 20th century, Europe continued to extract value through structural adjustment policies, debt traps, and trade inequalities (Rodney, 1972; Ferguson, 2006). The economic underdevelopment of many postcolonial nations cannot be understood outside of this history.<h3>&nbsp; The Mediterranean as a death border</h3> I grew up watching the news with my parents, where we (Moroccans) learned to compartmentalise seeing migrants that make it all the way to the North of Africa die trying to reach Spain or Greece. I always wondered, what are these people fleeing? Then I grew up, and slowly started to learn that the richest continent on the planet has been a playground for bullies who took, and took, and took, until they bled nations dry who are probably never going to fully recover.Today, the legacy of colonialism plays out at Europe’s borders. The Mediterranean Sea has become one of the deadliest migration routes in the world. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), more than 28,000 people have died attempting to cross the Mediterranean since 2014 (IOM, 2024). Far from being an accident, this death toll is the result of deliberate policy decisions. Fortress Europe has invested billions into border militarisation, outsourcing "border control" to authoritarian regimes like Libya and Tunisia, and criminalising humanitarian aid (Andersson, 2014; Achiume, 2019).The migration "crisis" is framed as a "problem" coming from the Global South, but it is Europe’s geopolitical actions—arms sales, climate inaction, economic exploitation—that continue to destabilise the very regions migrants flee.<h3>&nbsp;<img id="sbcv58vspmaclgo2k" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/876642056/photo/padlock-over-eu-map-gdpr-metaphor.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=RBglpVE-gFdTVqk1Ab6E4NNB6haakWDr12pMUWYGQ4s=" alt="Padlock over EU map, GDPR metaphor" title="Padlock over EU map, GDPR metaphor" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl selected" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/876642056/photo/padlock-over-eu-map-gdpr-metaphor.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=RBglpVE-gFdTVqk1Ab6E4NNB6haakWDr12pMUWYGQ4s=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-mce-selected="1">&nbsp; The myth of the European dream: From undocumented to undervalued</h3> I have friends who left Morocco via routes that are not legitimatised by the EU. Some of them went on a tourist visa and stayed. Some of them faked marriage documents, and some went on tiny speedboats, risking their lives to reach the south of Spain. The common reason behind this migration is to either improve their quality of life, or taking back what Spain is still blatantly stealing from us (check out Melilia or Ceuta, Moroccan cities that Moroccans cannot enter without a Schengen visa).For those who survive the journey and enter Europe, the promise of dignity remains elusive. Many undocumented migrants work under exploitative conditions—harvesting food in southern Italy, cleaning homes in Paris, or working construction in Berlin—for wages below the legal minimum, without contracts, insurance, or legal recourse (Palumbo &amp; Sciurba, 2018). This "modern slavery" sustains parts of Europe's agricultural and service economies.Even those who secure legal residency (like myself) are caught in a paradox: if they work legally and pay taxes, they face high deductions with few social benefits due to residency-based restrictions. If they work "cash in hand," they risk deportation and remain outside formal protections. Europe's legal and economic systems thus function as a double-bind for migrants: they are either invisible or hyper-visible, but never protected.<h3>&nbsp; Neocolonial governance and racialising capitalism</h3> Europe’s treatment of migrants cannot be separated from racialising capitalism—the process through which capitalism exploits racialised hierarchies to generate profit (Robinson, 1983). The racialisation of migrants justifies their economic exploitation and political exclusion. Simultaneously, the EU engages in neocolonial governance, dictating migration agreements, trade policies, and development funding in African and Asian nations in ways that benefit Europe first (El-Enany, 2020).<blockquote>The “sham” is not that Europe has failed to live up to its ideals, but that these ideals were built on exclusion in the first place. </blockquote>The very wealth that sustains European welfare states was accumulated through violence. Its current economic order depends on the continued marginalisation of the Global South—both abroad and within its borders.<h3>&nbsp; &nbsp; Unmasking the Mirage</h3> Europe’s self-image as a moral, civilised, and democratic continent must be confronted with the historical and material realities of how it came to power—and how it sustains that power today. The Mediterranean is not just a geographical border, but a symbolic one: between inclusion and exclusion, privilege and precarity, life and death. Migrants, whether documented or not, form the backbone of many European economies while being denied dignity and rights.To call Europe a “sham” is not to deny its cultural achievements or democratic struggles. It is to expose the contradictions between its projected values and its actual practices. Until Europe reckons with its colonial past and restructures its borders and labour markets, it will remain, in the words of the Senegalese philosopher Felwine Sarr, “a province of the world pretending to be its center” (Sarr, 2016).<h3>&nbsp; References</h3> Achiume, E. T. (2019). Migration as Decolonization. Stanford Law Review, 71(6), 1509–1574. Andersson, R. (2014). Illegality, Inc.: Clandestine Migration and the Business of Bordering Europe. University of California Press. Chakrabarty, D. (2000). Provincializing Europe: Postcolonial Thought and Historical Difference. Princeton University Press. Dunn, R. E. (2005). The Adventures of Ibn Battuta: A Muslim Traveler of the Fourteenth Century. University of California Press. El-Enany, N. (2020). (B)ordering Britain: Law, Race and Empire. Manchester University Press. Eltis, D., &amp; Richardson, D. (2008). Atlas of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Yale University Press. Ferguson, J. (2006). Global Shadows: Africa in the Neoliberal World Order. Duke University Press. IOM. (2024). Missing Migrants Project: Mediterranean. https://missingmigrants.iom.int/ Levtzion, N. (1973). Ancient Ghana and Mali. Methuen &amp; Co. Palumbo, L., &amp; Sciurba, A. (2018). The Vulnerability to Exploitation of Women Migrant Workers in Agriculture in the EU: The Need for a Human Rights and Gender-Based Approach. European Parliament. Rodney, W. (1972). How Europe Underdeveloped Africa. Bogle-L'Ouverture Publications. Robinson, C. A. (1983). Black Marxism: The Making of the Black Radical Tradition. Zed Press. Sarr, F. (2016). Afrotopia. Philippe Rey.

After a decade as an adult in Europe, here are some thoughts on why Europe Is a present sham: Historical amnesia, migration, and modern exploitation

<h2>Understanding Ecofeminism</h2>
Ecofeminism is a movement that combines ecological concerns with feminist perspectives, highlighting the connections between the exploitation of nature and the oppression of women. It emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to environmental issues, recognizing that gender equality and environmental sustainability are interconnected. This movement suggests that by addressing one, we can make strides in solving the other.

Ecofeminists argue that patriarchal systems contribute to environmental degradation and gender inequality. They believe that both women and nature have been historically marginalized and exploited for the benefit of economic growth and power dynamics. By challenging these structures, ecofeminism advocates for more inclusive and equitable environmental policies.

<figure id="figure-z7nsbp9ummm7ho8wud"><img id="z7nsbp9ummm7ho8wud" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/79328361/photo/mother-and-son-looking-at-lake.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=QCQzaaz2x80Rb6j-6X219Z4cTV_cisP3UCYetkfFdWk=" alt="women nature" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h2>The Principles of Sustainability</h2>
Sustainability is the practice of meeting our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It encompasses three main pillars: environmental protection, economic growth, and social equity. These pillars are often referred to as the triple bottom line, which emphasizes the need to balance ecological, economic, and social goals.

Implementing sustainable practices involves reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and promoting social inclusion. Businesses and communities are increasingly adopting sustainable methods to ensure long-term prosperity and environmental health. This approach seeks to create systems that support life in all its diversity while maintaining resource availability for future generations.

<figure id="figure-4g3ccpivdm7ho8wud"><img id="4g3ccpivdm7ho8wud" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1816281690/photo/sustainable-energy.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=w6W6mMucGZMYz1LB6WFpmWhcp7vRtiljOsNVz2ghsdQ=" alt="sustainability concept" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h2>The Intersection of Ecofeminism and Sustainability</h2>
The intersection of ecofeminism and sustainability offers a comprehensive framework for addressing environmental and social issues. By integrating feminist insights into sustainability practices, we can create more equitable solutions that address both gender disparities and ecological concerns. This synergy can lead to innovative strategies that redefine how we interact with our environment.

Ecofeminism promotes a collaborative and inclusive approach to sustainability, advocating for the voices of women and marginalized communities in decision-making processes. It encourages a shift from exploitative practices to those that are regenerative and nurturing, recognizing that sustainable development must include diverse perspectives to be effective.

<h3>Practical Applications</h3>
There are several ways in which the principles of ecofeminism can be applied to enhance sustainability efforts:
<ul>
 <li>Community-Based Projects: Initiatives that involve local communities, particularly women, in resource management and conservation efforts can lead to more effective outcomes.</li>
 <li>Education and Awareness: Educating individuals about the links between gender equality and environmental sustainability can foster a deeper understanding of these issues.</li>
 <li>Policy Advocacy: Advocating for policies that address both gender and environmental concerns ensures that sustainable development is inclusive.</li>
</ul>

<figure id="figure-ep8iifnarpm7ho8wud"><img id="ep8iifnarpm7ho8wud" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/888776704/photo/the-potential-for-growth-is-great-when-we-stand-together.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=cfv77G1ZswdO37THfjYqHgKfPcsrWkxlgbozd7H2z5E=" alt="community environment" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h3>Challenges and Opportunities</h3>
Despite its potential, the integration of ecofeminism into sustainability practices faces several challenges. Traditional power dynamics, resistance to change, and lack of awareness can hinder progress. However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and innovation.

By highlighting success stories and promoting dialogue, we can overcome these barriers and encourage more widespread adoption of ecofeminist principles in sustainability initiatives. Collaborative efforts between governments, organizations, and individuals are crucial in driving this transformative change.

<h2>The Road Ahead</h2>
The journey towards a more sustainable future is ongoing, and the integration of ecofeminism offers valuable insights. By recognizing the interdependence of social equity and environmental health, we can foster a more just and resilient world. As more people become aware of these connections, the potential for meaningful change grows exponentially.

In conclusion, embracing the intersection of ecofeminism and sustainability can lead to innovative solutions that address both environmental degradation and social inequalities. By working together, we can create a future where both people and the planet thrive.

<figure id="figure-frxhd5n7z97m7ho8wud"><img id="frxhd5n7z97m7ho8wud" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2157585497/photo/sustainable-growth-graph.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=1zVRJvyJhS-R2fOj8KmMMBHDUa2CC2iRjH4OIIF72-I=" alt="future sustainability" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

Exploring the Intersection of Ecofeminism and Sustainability: A Comprehensive Guide

<h2>Understanding Ecofeminism</h2>Ecofeminism is a movement that combines ecological concerns with feminist perspectives, advocating for the interconnectedness of the environment and human rights, particularly the rights of those who have historically been marginalized—especially women and LGBTQIA2S+ individuals. Ecofeminism recognizes that both nature and marginalized gender and sexual identities have been exploited, with their voices often ignored in decision-making processes. By addressing these intersections, ecofeminism seeks a world that is not only ecologically sustainable but also socially just and inclusive.At its core, ecofeminism challenges oppressive power structures that harm both the environment and marginalized communities, and promotes ways of living that respect gender and sexual diversity as well as the planet. It encourages rethinking how societal systems operate and advocates for the fact that the needs and rights of all—regardless of gender, sexual orientation, racialisation, or identity—are considered. Many LGBTQIA2S+ activists are increasingly aligning with ecofeminism as they recognize the shared struggles against marginalization, be it environmental degradation or social inequality.Case Study: The Chipko Movement and LGBTQIA2S+ Solidarity The Chipko Movement in India, which began in the 1970s, is an iconic example of ecofeminism in action. Women in the Himalayan region hugged trees to protect forests from deforestation, but the movement’s impact reached beyond environmental concerns—it also reinforced the importance of women’s rights and involvement in local decision-making.From an LGBTQIA2S+ perspective, the Chipko Movement parallels struggles for social justice and recognition. Just as women were asserting their right to be part of environmental governance, LGBTQIA2S+ communities are advocating for the recognition of their existence and roles in society. Both movements seek to dismantle the traditional power structures that perpetuate oppression. In the context of climate change, LGBTQIA2S+ activists are also leading initiatives that reflect ecofeminist ideals, such as organizing eco-pride events or advocating for more inclusive environmental policies.Case Study: The Green Belt MovementFounded by Wangari Maathai in Kenya, the Green Belt Movement combines reforestation efforts with women’s empowerment. This grassroots initiative not only helps restore ecosystems by planting trees, but it also creates opportunities for women to gain education and employment. By involving women in environmental conservation, Maathai showed how ecofeminism works at the intersection of gender justice and ecological restoration.LGBTQIA2S+ groups have found inspiration in Maathai’s work, recognizing how environmental activism can be a platform for asserting diverse identities. In fact, LGBTQIA2S+ environmentalists are increasingly advocating for environmental justice that includes the specific needs of queer, trans, and non-binary individuals, who often experience climate change disproportionately. The fight for a just, sustainable future can’t leave out the unique struggles of these communities—whether it's ensuring their voices are heard in environmental policies or providing them with safe spaces to thrive.Case Study: Women’s Earth Alliance— The Women’s Earth Alliance (WEA) is a global initiative that supports women-led environmental projects. By providing resources and advocacy support, WEA fosters resilience and sustainability while ensuring women's leadership in the fight against environmental degradation. Importantly, WEA is also beginning to recognize the contributions of LGBTQIA2S+ communities and incorporates these voices in its mission to amplify all marginalized identities in environmental governance.From water security projects to sustainable agriculture, WEA empowers individuals who identify as women and those who don’t, focusing on equality across gender and sexual identity. Their work highlights how ecofeminism can bring together diverse groups to address climate change while ensuring that LGBTQIA2S+ individuals are included in the leadership of these projects, offering a broader vision of social and environmental justice.The Future of Ecofeminism: A Call for Intersectional Action As climate change worsens, the relevance of ecofeminism becomes even more urgent, not just for women, but for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals who are often overlooked in environmental discussions. The struggles that LGBTQIA2S+ communities face in a world plagued by inequality mirror the challenges ecofeminism seeks to address. For example, marginalized queer communities, particularly trans and non-binary individuals, often face disproportionate vulnerabilities to environmental disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, or displacement due to rising sea levels.Future strategies must continue to build on the successes of ecofeminism by integrating a strong intersectional approach that considers gender, sexual orientation, and the environment in policymaking. By amplifying the voices of LGBTQIA2S+ activists within environmental movements and supporting their leadership in these areas, we can ensure a future that is equitable, sustainable, and inclusive for all people, regardless of their gender or sexual identity.Ecofeminism, at its core, promotes a vision of solidarity—one that seeks to repair the connections between the environment and all marginalized communities. It’s an invitation to unite, to safeguard the planet, and to honor the rights and experiences of all, ensuring that no one—whether cisgender, transgender, queer, or otherwise—is left behind in the fight for a more just world.

Ecofeminism in Action: Case Studies from the Field

<h3>Rethinking Sustainability Consulting Through a Queer Intersectional Ecofeminist Lens</h3>It's 2025. And though we imagined a better world by the time the 21st century hit, data and percentages from climate and social scientists are telling us otherwise: Sustainability, enmeshed with social justice, is no longer a choice but a necessity. Many businesses are increasingly turning to sustainability consulting as a means to mitigate their environmental impact. However, traditional sustainability practices often overlook the deep-rooted social inequalities that accompany environmental degradation. A queer intersectional ecofeminist approach to sustainability consulting provides a more critical and nuanced understanding of sustainability—one that does not just address the environment but also the social injustices tied to gender, race, class, and colonial histories. This approach challenges businesses to move beyond corporate greenwashing and engage in genuine, transformative change that acknowledges both ecological and social justice.Sustainability consulting in this framework goes beyond surface-level assessments: It calls for businesses to examine their practices not only through an environmental lens but also through a critical examination of the structural inequalities embedded in their operations, especially their policies. As an ecofeminist consultant with significant expertise in policy work, I bring in strategies that are tailored to your goals yet still emphasize equity, justice, and an intersectional perspective on climate action.<h3>Energy efficiency audits: A critical examination of power dynamics</h3>Energy efficiency audits are often the starting point in sustainability consulting. These audits reveal where energy is being wasted and how it can be conserved, but a queer intersectional ecofeminist critique asks: who benefits from energy efficiency, and who bears the brunt of environmental exploitation? Energy audits, if not done with a justice-oriented mindset, can inadvertently reinforce existing power structures. For instance, efficiency measures might reduce costs for businesses but fail to address the energy inequities faced by marginalized communities, such as those living in energy poverty or areas impacted by fossil fuel extraction.A more inclusive approach would involve prioritizing renewable energy solutions that empower local communities, especially those disproportionately impacted by environmental degradation. Consultants who adopt this lens guide businesses to take responsibility for the broader social implications of energy consumption and production, advocating for energy justice that aligns with the values of queer intersectional ecofeminism.<h3>Waste management: Beyond circularity to social justice</h3>While waste management is often hailed as a crucial component of sustainability consulting, a queer intersectional ecofeminist perspective questions the very notion of a "circular economy" if it doesn’t account for the social inequalities that determine who is exposed to waste and pollution. Consultants who approach waste management with an intersectional lens ask critical questions: How does waste disposal disproportionately affect low-income and marginalized communities? How are workers in waste management treated? Are these communities being left out of the conversations on sustainability?Sustainable waste management strategies like recycling and composting are vital, but they must be accompanied by policies that address environmental racism and the unequal distribution of pollution. A truly sustainable system considers not just the environmental impact of waste but also the racial, gender, and economic inequalities tied to its production and disposal.<h3>Carbon footprint reduction: A call for systemic change</h3>Reducing carbon emissions is a central goal of sustainability consulting, yet mainstream approaches often overlook the intersecting crises of environmental degradation and social injustice. While transitioning to renewable energy and improving efficiency are important steps, a queer intersectional ecofeminist approach recognizes that these actions are insufficient if they do not address the underlying power imbalances that fuel climate change. Climate justice cannot be achieved without confronting the colonial legacies and exploitative practices that perpetuate environmental harm.Sustainability consultants with a justice-driven approach will help businesses not only reduce their carbon footprint but also align their strategies with broader social movements. This includes supporting policies and initiatives that prioritize the needs of marginalized communities, whether through divestment from fossil fuels, advocacy for reparations, or supporting local environmental justice organizations. Carbon footprint reduction, in this context, is not just about lower emissions but about creating a just, equitable, and sustainable future for all.<h3>Employee engagement: Are you creating inclusive eco-cultures or perpetuating harm?</h3>Sustainability consultants often work with businesses to develop employee engagement programs that encourage eco-friendly behaviors. However, without a critical, intersectional approach, these programs can unintentionally reinforce harmful stereotypes or ignore the lived experiences of marginalized employees. For instance, programs that focus solely on individual behaviors without considering structural barriers can further marginalize workers who may face economic or cultural barriers to participating in sustainability efforts.A queer intersectional ecofeminist approach to employee engagement involves creating inclusive, accessible, and supportive programs that acknowledge the different ways in which people experience environmental and social oppression. This might mean recognizing that not all employees have the same access to resources or opportunities, and that sustainability efforts should be rooted in solidarity with those most affected by environmental and social injustices.<h3>Sustainable supply chains: Moving beyond greenwashing</h3>Sustainability consulting often focuses on improving supply chain practices to reduce environmental impact. However, the pursuit of “green” supply chains can be fraught with contradictions. A queer intersectional ecofeminist perspective challenges businesses to examine how their supply chains contribute to not just environmental degradation but also the exploitation of workers, especially women, Indigenous peoples, and people of color in global supply chains. Simply choosing suppliers based on environmental criteria without considering labor rights, gender equity, and colonial histories perpetuates harmful practices under the guise of sustainability.Consultants with a justice-centered approach encourage businesses to engage with suppliers who are committed to environmental and social justice, ensuring that fair labor practices, equitable wages, and community empowerment are prioritized in the supply chain process. This is not just about reducing a company’s environmental impact but about creating a more just and equitable global economy.<h3>Final thoughts:</h3>Sustainability consulting, when approached through a q<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">ueer intersectional ecofeminist lens, goes beyond mere environmental optimization—it becomes a tool for addressing the intertwined systems of oppression that shape our world. It challenges businesses to consider their role not just in environmental stewardship but in dismantling the power structures that perpetuate social and ecological harm. This approach offers an opportunity for companies to engage in truly transformative change, one that recognizes the importance of social justice, equity, and solidarity in the fight against climate change.

Top sustainability consulting practices to boost our environmental impact

<h2>Union of Justice report: Why racial justice should be at the core of Europe’s climate action</h2><figure id="figure-a0pxb05n1m74sb6h3"><img id="a0pxb05n1m74sb6h3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23UwUUzdPjyCmNkMs1HgPwPwEkxpvZazKgFoouJRISN1wMjYJeh5QgmSz1nv91jO.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23UwUUzdPjyCmNkMs1HgPwPwEkxpvZazKgFoouJRISN1wMjYJeh5QgmSz1nv91jO.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>I have had the opportunity last year to contribute to a novel, ground breaking research conducted by the Union of Justice, a European, independent, people of colour (POC) led organisation dedicated to racial justice and climate justice. The full report is live now and I am writing this blog post about it because I strongly believe that it is a must-read for anybody who would even wonder why racism should be part of the climate justice conversation. The report unpacks why climate justice can never be achieved without continuing to unwrap the racialised injustices that most often shape the lived experiences of non-white communities across Europe. The report is based on the data collected through roundtable discussions, interviews with scholars, residents, and activists of colour across ten Western European countries, along with an online survey. The result is an outstanding study that stands as one of the rare comprehensive, comparative analyses linking climate change to systemic racialised issues in Europe.&nbsp; The report structure in a nutshell: In recent years, the discourse around climate change has gained widespread attention, especially in Europe, where governments and environmental movements have been at the forefront of pushing for climate action. However, a critical issue has been largely overlooked in this discussion: the role and experiences of racialised communities. This is where The Union of Justice stepped up with their report, a research project that explores the intersection of climate policy, social policy, and racialised matters in Europe, and focuses on how racism increases environmental harms for racialised populations and how a lack of social resources hinders their influence on climate policy. Environmental injustice in Europe extends beyond exposure to environmental harms, to include unequal access to resources that address these harms. While climate racism has been extensively studied in the United States, growing research in Europe highlights that marginalised racialised communities are disproportionately affected by pollution, industrial waste, and poor air quality. These populations also face political exclusion that limits their ability to influence local policy decisions.From November to December 2023, roundtable discussions across ten countries revealed dissatisfaction with climate policies, especially concerning housing, which left racialised communities more vulnerable to environmental hazards.Roundtable discussions: Insights into local realities Between November and December 2023, a series of roundtable discussions were held with individuals from various countries in Europe to contextualise the research. These discussions, conducted in countries like France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, and Spain, focused on three key areas: the lived realities of racialised communities in relation to environmental harms, the approach to climate policies in each country, and the capacity of racialised communities to influence these policies.1. Context of racialised populations. &nbsp;The roundtables revealed that racialised communities often face greater exposure to environmental hazards, such as heat islands, industrial pollution, and substandard housing conditions. This segregation was particularly visible in urban spaces, where racialised populations are concentrated in areas prone to environmental degradation. For example, in France, Roma communities are frequently housed near toxic land, while in Germany, racialised groups often live in poorly maintained buildings near industrial zones.2. Climate policies: colour-blind or racially-conscious? Participants also discussed whether national climate policies in their countries addressed the specific needs of racialised communities. Unfortunately, most respondents felt that these policies were ‘race-blind,’ failing to consider how existing racial disparities worsen environmental vulnerability. Few believed that their governments had made meaningful efforts to bridge this gap, with some even pointing to policies that exacerbated social and environmental inequalities.3. Space for shaping policy. A critical theme that emerged was the lack of political space for racialised communities to participate in policymaking processes. Active disenfranchisement, coupled with social exclusion and institutional racism, kept these groups out of vital discussions. For instance, Austria’s restrictive citizenship process was highlighted as a barrier to political participation for migrant communities, further marginalising their voices in climate policy development.Themes: Housing, exclusion, and environmental harms The roundtable discussions unearthed several recurring themes that cross national boundaries. The issue of housing, in particular, stood out as a frontline for climate justice struggles in Europe. In almost every country studied, participants pointed to how racialised communities are segregated into areas disproportionately exposed to environmental hazards—whether it be due to industrial pollution, lack of green spaces, or inadequate infrastructure.1. Habitation and environmental hazards: In cities across Europe, racialised communities often find themselves living in neglected areas, subject to higher exposure to pollutants from nearby industrial zones or incinerators. The lack of green spaces in these areas further compounds the problem, limiting their ability to mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as rising temperatures and air pollution. For example, respondents in Spain and Italy pointed to neighborhoods where immigrant communities lived in substandard housing with minimal access to clean air or green environments.2. Political exclusion: The exclusion of racialised groups from political processes was another significant concern. In many countries, local governments failed to enforce housing and environmental regulations in racialised communities, leaving these populations vulnerable to exploitation and neglect. The marginalisation of these groups was often compounded by rising political polarisation, with far-right parties gaining traction across Europe. In several countries, far-right movements not only denied climate change but actively advocated for policies that further marginalised racialised communities, creating a hostile environment for climate justice advocacy.3. A growing divide between climate and social justice: One of the most disturbing findings from the roundtables was the growing disconnect between climate action and social justice. Mainstream climate politics are focused on environmental concerns alone, and therefore tend to overlook the social inequalities that aggravate the climate crisis for marginalised communities. This narrow approach has allowed far-right parties to position themselves as ‘pro-climate’ while ignoring the social justice dimension of the climate crisis. This has contributed to a broader political quagmire in Europe, as seen in the declining legitimacy of initiatives like the European Green Deal.Survey findings: In addition to the roundtable discussions, a survey was conducted to further explore how racialised communities perceive climate change and their governments’ climate action. The survey addressed three main areas: the importance of climate change as a national issue, satisfaction with government communication on climate plans, and perceived barriers to engaging with climate policy.1. The importance of climate change: The survey revealed that the vast majority of racialised respondents—over 75% in most countries—consider climate change to be an important national issue. This aligns with general European polling on the climate crisis, indicating that racialised communities, like the wider population, are deeply concerned about the environment. However, in countries like Italy and Spain, there was a notable disconnect, with around 25-30% of respondents viewing climate change as less important, possibly due to other more immediate social and economic concerns.2. Community relevance: When asked how important climate change was for their specific communities, the responses were similarly high. Most racialised respondents saw climate change as a direct threat to their well-being, particularly given the environmental hazards and poor living conditions in their neighborhoods. This highlights that climate change is not just a global issue for these communities; it is a personal and immediate challenge.3. Barriers to engagement: Despite their concerns, most respondents reported feeling excluded from shaping climate policy. This exclusion was largely attributed to systemic racism, political disenfranchisement, and the lack of channels for marginalised communities to influence decision-making. Many respondents expressed frustration with their governments’ failure to communicate climate action plans effectively or involve marginalised communities in these discussions.Recommendations for climate justice The findings from the roundtable discussions and surveys paint a bleak picture of the reality for racialised communities within Europe’s climate justice landscape. However, there are numerous actionable steps that both the European Union and national governments can take to address these issues and promote inclusive, equitable climate action. While the following diagram I made highlights a few key recommendations, the full report offers a more extensive range of solutions across three levels: the European Union, national governments, and civic engagement, along with other organizations. <figure id="figure-7yvab5vf1im74sa95b"><img id="7yvab5vf1im74sa95b" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aeJIz1D7T4auB47sagLMkee1cyGbdI3BvpSndwPUbb4u2BgC4hgIMftanLJyHs8.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aeJIz1D7T4auB47sagLMkee1cyGbdI3BvpSndwPUbb4u2BgC4hgIMftanLJyHs8.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Final reflections: The exclusion of racialised communities from climate policymaking in Europe is not just a climate issue; it is a matter of justice and democracy. The findings from this research show that while racialised populations are deeply concerned about the climate crisis, they are largely excluded from shaping the policies meant to address it. This disenfranchisement has far-reaching consequences, not only for environmental justice but for the health of European democracy itself.To move forward, climate movements, governments, and the European Union must take bold steps to center the voices of marginalised communities in climate action. Integrating social justice into climate policy is Europe’s only effective and just path towards ensuring a more inclusive, equitable, and effective response to the climate crisis—one that benefits all communities, not just the privileged few.&nbsp; Disclaimer regarding my use, as well as the report’s use, of the term “race/racialised”: Recognising that there is no universally agreed-upon term across Europe, both this blog and the report use the terms ‘racialised’ and ‘racialised communities.’ The term ‘racialised’ is used to highlight that ‘race’ is not a natural, stable, or scientific category, but rather a construct shaped by social and political forces.Please also note that this blog post was originally published by<a data-mce-href="https://blogs.egu.eu/geolog/2024/10/30/union-of-justice-report-why-racial-justice-should-be-at-the-core-of-europes-climate-action/" href="https://blogs.egu.eu/geolog/2024/10/30/union-of-justice-report-why-racial-justice-should-be-at-the-core-of-europes-climate-action/"> EGU's Geolog.</a>

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