Toxic waste is a global problem. What to do with environmental hazards and where to put toxic waste is a global concern. To better understand current issues around toxic waste management and how current practices can lead to environmental injustice, class members engage in a role playing activity that requires them to decide in which of five communities to place toxic waste.

Concepts

social-emotional learning, environmental stewardship, environmental hazards, equity, injustice, social justice, racism, pollution, toxic chemicals

Show More Show Less

Additional Tags

social studies

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• Instructors should prepare for the lesson by reviewing the suggested readings
• Due to the sensitive nature of the activity, it is important to ensure enough time to thoroughly debrief the activity; therefore, present the lesson over two days with the first devoted to establishing and introducing the groups and the second day conducting and debriefing the activity

Classroom Considerations

• The second in a series of eight Environmental Justice, Equity, and Health lessons
• The lessons are cumulative and designed to be taught in order
• Requires copies of several worksheets
• Guidelines must be in place to ensure a safe, respectful discussion of sensitive issues raised by the activity

Pros

• Includes links to suggested readings to prepare instructors for the activity
• The 11-page packet includes step-by-step directions for the activity

Cons

• None