ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at how differences between social groups and categories – such as class, gender, ethnicity, and their intersections – relate to and deeply affect environmental problems. Social stratification shapes life chances, material welfare, and access to natural and other key resources. It exposes people to different hazards and risks, and provides different opportunities and capacities to deal with these problems. These issues are discussed in relation to theoretical concepts such as intersectionality, environmental justice, and ecological violence. The chapter also discusses how it is possible for a wide range of affected groups to participate and be represented in decision-making. It is shown that issues of inequality and poverty are not only of great social concern, but also of critical environmental importance. Inequalities can both cause environmental problems and make it more difficult to find legitimate and viable solutions, both locally and globally. Thus, the chapter concludes by emphasizing that any proposal or program for transforming society toward sustainability must address the issue of social stratification; otherwise it will not be realistic and viable.
