The Nexus Between Power, Justice and Environment: Theoretical Analysis of the Issues in Africa
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2015-06
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The nexus between power, justice and environment in Africa from theoretical perspective is the central focus of this thesis. The thesis particularly examines the traditional African environmental ethics prior to its contamination with different and subsequent global systems. It also discusses the underpinnings of global environmental justice. Towards this end, pertinent literatures and case study researches have primarily been utilized. In doing so, the broader theory of environmental justice which embeds the key elements of justice comprising capability, participation, and recognition than the one solely dependent on distributive issue has been expounded. The different environmental injustice in Africa needs comprehending these elements and the nexus that exist between them. The thesis goes on to analyze the impacts of four different global systems: colonialism, globalization, multinational corporations (MNCs), and capitalism on the wellbeing of African environment. Finally the thesis identifies and discusses the issue of land grabbing, toxic waste importation, climate change & global warming and exploitation of natural resources as instances of environmental injustices threating the livelihoods of innocent poor people of Africa.
The study contends that these environmental injustices have been caused by the developed nations of the global North against the poor and powerless indigenous communities of Africa.
The appropriate use of power along with strong justice system, therefore, could bring about global environmental justice in the contemporary Africa.
Key words: Environmental ethics, Environmental justice, Power, African environment, global environment
Description
Keywords
Environmental Ethics, Environmental Justice, African Environment, Power