How ‘green energy’ is threatening biodiversity, human health, and environmental justice: An example from the Mojave Desert, California

Abstract

In recent years, the Mojave Desert, which is known for its unique and endemic plant and animal diversity, has become a preferred area for renewable energy developments. However, an environmental impact that is not calculated into the production of green energy has emerged that not only puts an additional burden on already endangered species but also affects the quality of life for residents living in disadvantaged and underserved communities. Using the example of just another solar farm to be built on 2,300 acres of pristine desert land, we point out the negative impacts of unsustainable land development on community health and environmental justice, driven by the administration of Kern County, which promotes and prioritizes economic growth over residents’ concerns. In the eyes of the local population, several promises by the County to the community, as documented in the 2017–2020 County of Kern Strategic Goals, were broken. This study investigates the effects of unsustainable land development, particularly the threat to iconic Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia), the increase in PM10 pollution, and the risk of contracting Valley fever for residents of two small desert communities, Boron, and Desert Lakes, in Kern County, California. This study focused on environmental justice issues due to the implementation of an ambitious renewable energy transition plan supported by the administration. This is the first study that documented the presence of the causative agent of Valley fever in soils to be disturbed for ambitious renewable energy development in eastern Kern County using a molecular, culture-independent, approach.