Florida’s Sugarcane Smoke: A Health Crisis
By Darius Spearman (africanelements)
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In the United States, environmental crises are not just isolated incidents but stark reminders of systemic issues that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. From contaminated water to toxic air pollution, these crises unveil the harsh realities faced by residents in various parts of the country. Environmental racism is a significant factor in these disparities, as racist policies often lead to Black communities bearing the brunt of environmental hazards.
The Burning Problem in Florida
Sugarcane burning in Florida’s Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) is a practice that has drawn significant concern due to its disproportionate impact on under-resourced communities. This agricultural practice involves setting fire to sugarcane fields before harvest. The burning removes the leafy tops and prepares the stalks for easier collection. However, this process releases a plume of smoke and ash that drifts into nearby towns. This practice is particularly prevalent in areas surrounding Lake Okeechobee, affecting communities like Pahokee (newsone.com). Many residents in the Glades region, a predominantly Black area, suffer from various respiratory illnesses (rollingstone.com). Some individuals require a nebulizer multiple times daily, and they firmly believe the smoke either caused or worsened their symptoms (rollingstone.com). The health concerns are substantial, with residents reporting a range of ailments linked to the persistent smoke exposure.
Furthermore, the fires emit dangerous pollutants into the air. These include benzene and formaldehyde, both of which are known carcinogens (insideclimatenews.org). Benzene is a chemical linked to leukemia, a type of blood cancer. Formaldehyde is associated with cancers of the nose and throat (insideclimatenews.org). In addition to these specific chemicals, the burning also releases particulate matter and dioxins (reuters.com). Particulate matter, especially PM2.5, refers to tiny particles in the air that are 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter. These microscopic particles are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. Once inhaled, PM2.5 can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and even premature death. Dioxins are highly toxic environmental pollutants that can cause reproductive and developmental problems, damage the immune system, interfere with hormones, and cause cancer. These pollutants contribute to the high rates of respiratory illnesses observed in the affected communities.
Health Impacts and Environmental Justice
The link between sugarcane smoke exposure and adverse health outcomes is well-documented. Researchers use various methods to estimate exposure levels and examine mortality data (phys.org). These methods include satellite sensors, ground monitoring, and 3D computer models (phys.org). Satellite sensors can track the plumes of smoke and estimate their spread. Ground monitoring stations collect air samples to directly measure pollutant concentrations. Three-dimensional computer models simulate the dispersion of pollutants in the atmosphere, providing a comprehensive picture of exposure. This scientific evidence reinforces the concerns of residents who have long experienced the health consequences firsthand. The consistent exposure to these harmful substances has led to a public health crisis in these communities.
The situation in the Everglades Agricultural Area is a clear example of environmental injustice. Environmental justice is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, in the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. In this case, under-resourced and predominantly minority communities bear a disproportionate burden of environmental pollution. These communities often lack the necessary political power and resources to advocate for their protection effectively. They are frequently located near industrial or agricultural operations that generate pollution, leading to higher exposure levels. The historical context of discriminatory housing policies and economic marginalization has contributed to this unequal distribution of environmental hazards. Consequently, residents in these areas face greater health risks and have fewer avenues for redress compared to more affluent communities.
Key Pollutants from Sugarcane Burning
Legal Battles and Industry Defenses
Residents in predominantly minority municipalities have taken legal action against the sugar industry. They have filed class-action lawsuits, alleging negligence and violations of environmental laws (reuters.com). These lawsuits claim that exposure to particulate matter and dioxins has caused significant harm. The legal framework surrounding environmental regulations and agricultural practices is complex. Historically, laws have often favored industrial and agricultural interests, making it difficult for affected communities to seek justice. The residents are seeking redress for the health problems and diminished quality of life caused by the burning practices. These legal battles highlight the ongoing struggle for environmental justice in the region.
On the other hand, industry supporters argue that halting the burning would threaten jobs (sierraclub.org). They maintain that the fires comply with existing air pollution laws (sierraclub.org). Furthermore, they often attribute public pressure to “anti-farming activists” (sierraclub.org). The economic importance of sugarcane farming to the region is undeniable, as it provides employment and contributes significantly to the local economy. However, this economic argument often clashes with the health and environmental concerns of the affected communities. The debate often boils down to a difficult choice between economic stability and public health. This ongoing conflict underscores the need for solutions that can address both concerns.
Broader Environmental Justice Issues
The environmental challenges faced by communities in Florida are not unique. Across the United States, numerous instances of environmental racism highlight how marginalized populations bear the brunt of pollution. The water crisis in Flint, Michigan, is a stark example (newsone.com). In 2014, Flint switched its water source to the Flint River, leading to lead contamination (newsone.com). This decision disproportionately affected the city’s majority Black population, causing severe health issues, especially in children (newsone.com). Twelve people reportedly died after consuming the untreated water (newsone.com). Although a settlement exceeding $600 million was reached, residents are still awaiting payments, highlighting ongoing challenges in achieving justice (newsone.com). This situation underscores the long-term impacts and slow pace of recovery for communities affected by environmental disasters.
Another critical case is the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi. This city, with a population that is nearly 85.5% Black, has struggled with aging water infrastructure (newsone.com). In August 2022, the city’s water system failed, leaving thousands without adequate water supply (newsone.com). Even in 2024, residents continue to face contamination issues, including E.coli traces found in the water supply (newsone.com). These ongoing issues demonstrate a systemic neglect of infrastructure in predominantly Black cities. The lack of reliable access to clean water is a fundamental human rights issue that disproportionately affects these communities. It also highlights the need for significant investment in infrastructure to prevent future crises.
Environmental Justice Case Studies
In 2014, Flint's water source switch led to lead contamination, severely impacting the majority Black population. Despite a large settlement, residents still await payments, highlighting ongoing struggles for justice.
Jackson, with a nearly 85.5% Black population, faces persistent water infrastructure issues. In 2022, the system failed, leaving thousands without water, and contamination issues continue into 2024.
This stretch along the Mississippi River has a high concentration of industrial facilities. Residents face increased health risks, including higher cancer rates, due to air and water pollution from chemical plants.
Air Pollution and Health Disparities
Detroit, Michigan, also grapples with significant air pollution due to industrial activities and transportation emissions (newsone.com). Poor air quality in the city is linked to various health problems, including respiratory issues and cardiovascular diseases (newsone.com). The American Lung Association’s 2023 “State of the Air” report ranked Detroit as the 32nd most polluted city for ozone pollution (newsone.com). Wayne County, where Detroit is located, received an “F” grade for both ozone and short-term particle pollution (newsone.com). These grades indicate a serious public health threat, particularly for vulnerable populations like children, older adults, and individuals with chronic diseases. The ongoing struggle for clean air in Detroit highlights the need for stronger policies and enforcement to protect residents.
Further south, “Cancer Alley” in Louisiana is another tragic example of environmental injustice (newsone.com). This stretch of land along the Mississippi River is home to a high concentration of industrial facilities, chemical plants, and refineries (newsone.com). Residents in this area face increased health risks due to exposure to air and water pollution, leading to higher rates of cancer and other diseases (newsone.com). New petrochemical facilities continue to be constructed, threatening to cause even more harm to residents (newsone.com). The Environmental Protection Agency has even calculated cancer risks in the vicinity of some of these plants (newsone.com). This situation exemplifies how industrial expansion often comes at the expense of the health and well-being of marginalized communities. The fight for environmental justice in Cancer Alley continues, with residents demanding stronger protections and accountability from corporations.
The Path Forward: Solutions and Advocacy
Addressing the issue of sugarcane burning in Florida and environmental injustices nationwide requires a multifaceted approach. One crucial aspect involves exploring viable alternatives to burning. Mechanical harvesting, for instance, is a method that does not involve fire. This alternative could significantly reduce air pollution and its associated health risks. However, transitioning to such methods may require substantial investment and changes in agricultural practices. Research and development into sustainable farming methods are crucial for finding solutions that protect both the environment and the livelihoods of farmers. Furthermore, government incentives and support could encourage the adoption of more environmentally friendly agricultural techniques.
Increased community engagement and empowerment are also vital. Providing affected communities with resources, legal aid, and platforms to voice their concerns can strengthen their advocacy efforts. Long-term health studies are necessary to track the health outcomes of residents exposed to sugarcane smoke over time. This data can provide irrefutable evidence for policy changes and legal actions. Additionally, stronger regulatory oversight and enforcement of environmental laws are critical. Government agencies must prioritize the health of residents over industrial profits and ensure that environmental regulations are strictly adhered to. The current administration, led by President Donald Trump, has a responsibility to address these pressing environmental justice issues. Ultimately, achieving environmental justice means ensuring that all communities, regardless of their socioeconomic status or racial composition, have the right to live in a healthy and safe environment.
Health Impacts of Sugarcane Burning
Linked to benzene exposure from smoke.
Associated with formaldehyde in smoke.
Exacerbated by PM2.5 and other pollutants.
Worsened by fine particulate matter.
Potential risk from dioxin exposure.
Linked to long-term air pollution exposure.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Darius Spearman has been a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.
