Environmental Injustice in Ohio: The Struggles of Black and Poor Urban and Rural Communities

Environmental issues disproportionately affect marginalized communities across Ohio. Black and poor urban and rural communities in the state face higher exposure to pollution, inadequate access to clean water, and food insecurity. These challenges stem from historical segregation policies, industrial zoning practices, and systemic neglect. By examining the data, we can better understand the depth of these problems and advocate for solutions.

Air Pollution and Health Disparities

Studies have shown that predominantly Black and low-income neighborhoods in Ohio's cities, such as Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati, are more likely to be located near industrial facilities, highways, and landfills. According to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), residents in these areas are exposed to significantly higher levels of air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), which contribute to respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

• A 2023 study by the American Lung Association ranked Cleveland among the top 10 most polluted cities in the U.S. for year-round particle pollution.

• Black children in Ohio are twice as likely to be hospitalized due to asthma compared to their white counterparts, according to the Ohio Department of Health.

Water Quality and Infrastructure Neglect

Access to clean water remains a major issue in many of Ohio’s poorest communities. Aging water infrastructure, lead contamination, and industrial runoff have created long-term health risks.

• In 2022, testing revealed that over 200,000 Ohio residents were exposed to lead-contaminated water, with a significant number living in predominantly Black and low-income neighborhoods.

• Rural communities face well-water contamination from agricultural runoff, with high levels of nitrates and pesticides linked to birth defects and cancer.

• The city of Youngstown and parts of Cincinnati have experienced repeated violations of safe drinking water standards, disproportionately impacting Black and low-income residents.

Food Deserts and Nutritional Disparities

Many Black and low-income communities in Ohio are classified as food deserts—areas with limited access to affordable, nutritious food. This issue is especially prevalent in urban centers and rural counties where grocery stores have shut down due to economic decline.

• The USDA reports that nearly 1 million Ohioans live in food deserts, with the highest concentration in Cuyahoga, Franklin, and Hamilton counties.

• In rural southeastern Ohio, some residents must travel over 20 miles to reach a full-service grocery store, leading to reliance on processed and unhealthy food options.

• The lack of access to fresh food contributes to higher rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease among marginalized populations.

Industrial Waste and Environmental Racism

Historically, industrial and hazardous waste sites have been disproportionately placed in Black and poor communities. Ohio has a long history of environmental racism, where zoning laws and economic policies have prioritized industry over residents’ health.

• A 2021 report from the Environmental Justice Health Alliance found that 75% of hazardous waste sites in Ohio are located in communities with majority Black and low-income populations.

• The ongoing pollution from petrochemical plants along the Ohio River has led to increased cancer rates among nearby residents.

• Rural communities in Appalachian Ohio face issues with fracking and pipeline development, leading to water contamination and deforestation.

Solutions and Community Advocacy

Addressing these environmental issues requires systemic change, policy enforcement, and community-driven initiatives:

1. Strengthen Environmental Regulations – Advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of clean air and water laws, as well as increased funding for infrastructure improvements in marginalized communities.

2. Expand Green Spaces and Urban Farming – Programs like community gardens and micro grocery stores can help combat food insecurity.

3. Increase Public Awareness and Advocacy – Community organizations such as the Ohio Environmental Council and GEO Nonprofit are working to bring attention to these issues and push for policy changes.

4. Support Renewable Energy and Sustainability Efforts – Investing in clean energy solutions can reduce pollution while creating job opportunities in struggling communities.

By addressing these systemic environmental injustices, Ohio can create a healthier, more equitable future for all residents, regardless of race or economic status.