October is Black History Month, so we wanted to take the time to highlight the significant contribution that Black people have made in the sustainability space, where their efforts and stories often go under-recognised. From indigenous practices rooted in environmental protection, to contemporary leadership in policy, activism, and innovation, Black communities globally have long been at the forefront of sustainable solutions, particularly in the context of climate change, social justice, and equitable access to resources.
Historically, African and African diasporic communities practised sustainable living long before the term became widely used. Many indigenous African societies relied on agricultural systems that were in harmony with the land. Methods like crop rotation, communal land management, and permaculture ensured food security while protecting the environment. The ecological knowledge passed down through generations reflects an understanding of natural cycles and biodiversity that has influenced modern sustainable agricultural practices.
In the realm of activism, Black people have been pivotal in advocating for environmental justice. The concept of environmental justice, which recognises that marginalised communities are often disproportionately affected by environmental degradation, emerged largely through the efforts of African American activists. One key figure in this movement is Dr. Robert Bullard, often referred to as the "father of environmental justice." Bullard's research in the 1980s highlighted how African American communities in the United States were consistently targeted for hazardous waste sites and industrial pollutants. His work brought to light the systemic inequalities that positioned Black and other marginalised communities at greater risk from environmental harm, laying the foundation for policies that aimed to address these injustices.
In addition to activism, Black leadership in the sustainability space is also evident through political action. For example, Wangari Maathai, a Kenyan environmentalist and political activist, founded the Green Belt Movement in 1977, a grassroots organisation that focused on environmental conservation and women's empowerment. Through tree planting and sustainable land management, the Green Belt Movement addressed deforestation while also promoting social equity, linking ecological health with the empowerment of rural communities. Maathai became the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004 for her contributions to sustainable development, democracy, and peace. You can see more about this holistic movement in action here.
Globally, many Black people continue to be on the front lines of environmental degradation, while simultaneously championing its solutions. African nations are experiencing the most severe impacts of climate change, yet African scientists, farmers, and activists are leading initiatives to build climate resilience through sustainable farming, renewable energy, and land restoration projects. For example, The African Union has launched the African Green Stimulus Programme, which seeks to promote sustainable development across the continent by grappling green energy and technology.
In the business sector, Black innovators and entrepreneurs are making strides in green technology and sustainable business models. In the UK, young activists and entrepreneurs like London-based fashion designer Rachael Corson have built brands centred on sustainability. Corson's brand, Afrocenchix, creates eco-friendly haircare products that cater to the needs of people with Afro-textured hair while ensuring minimal environmental impact through sustainable sourcing and packaging. Not only does this challenge the mainstream beauty industry’s reliance on harmful chemicals, but also on single-use plastics.
It remains critical to amplify these contributions and ensure that Black voices in sustainability receive the recognition they deserve.
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