Abstract
By focusing predominantly on cities or larger regions, environmental justice (EJ) studies have tended to overlook the challenges faced by small island states. This study explores the feasibility of constructing an EJ index for Malta, as a case study of these territories. EJ issues were identified by consulting relevant literature and local experts. Based on this, five environmental variables (air pollution, noise pollution, lack of greenery, overcrowding and overdevelopment, and proximity to locally unwanted land uses) and three social variables (education, unemployment, and health) were selected for inclusion in the index. For the identified variables, indicators were chosen and calculated for each locality, while using a Geographic Information System to process and visualize spatial data. Cumulative environmental burden and social vulnerability scores were calculated based on quintile ranking of indicators. After normalization, cumulative scores were aggregated to derive the EJ index. The preliminary evaluation of EJ distribution in Malta demonstrated significant spatial differences. A statistically significant positive correlation of moderate strength between cumulative environmental burden and social vulnerability scores showed that EJ issues are present in Malta, notwithstanding its small size. Despite limitations, this exploratory index provides a basis for further EJ research in small island states.
Highlights
IntroductionVulnerable individuals and communities disproportionately experience environmental burdens, together with barriers that do not allow mobilization against these burdens and the resulting well-being impacts [1,2,3]
The interconnectedness of environmental and social issues has become indisputable
European policymakers lagged behind the US in recognizing environmental justice (EJ) [8,9] resulting in the majority of methodological studies being based in the US
Summary
Vulnerable individuals and communities disproportionately experience environmental burdens, together with barriers that do not allow mobilization against these burdens and the resulting well-being impacts [1,2,3]. Such issues relate to environmental justice (EJ), which addresses “the right to remain in one’s place and environment and be protected from uncontrolled investment and growth, pollution, land grabbing, speculation, disinvestment, and decay and abandonment” [4] A study prepared for the European Commission (EC) recommended embracing EJ as a “guiding principle for policy development” while investing in good spatial data and assessment methods [10]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
