Pollution and Health in Black American Communities
Provided by: PBS |Published on: May 7, 2026
Videos
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Synopsis
These videos and related resources explain how Black Americans are disproportionately impacted by pollution.
The resources focus on the "Toxic Triangle" located near San Francisco, California, where communities are exposed to high volumes of pollution, including radioactive material.
These videos provide a lot of rich information while remaining brief.
Many students may find this resource eye-opening as they understand the many layers associated with environmental concerns.
Prerequisites
This resource builds on students' prior knowledge of how Black Americans have been treated throughout United States history.
Differentiation & Implementation
After using this resource, students can practice reading scientific journal formats with this related article.
The resource mentions having students visit the Mapping Inequality website for more information. Teachers can find suggestions for implementing this resource here.
This video can be used as an introduction to environmental justice and the ways that racial issues and environmental issues intersect.
Teachers can use this video to show the relationship between the Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being, and SDG 10, Reduced Inequalities.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Related Teaching Resources
All resources can be used for your educational purposes with proper attribution to the content provider.
