Beyond greenwashing: Prioritizing environmental justice in conflict-affected settings

Abstract

Building on recent studies that call for further attention to marginalized communities at the intersection of environment, climate action, and peacebuilding initiatives, this article recommends an environmental justice lens for work in conflict-affected settings. We highlight examples of resistance to environmental action where a justice lens has been missed, amplifying minority voices and perspectives, and including a case where environmental peacebuilding is perceived as greenwashing. Lacking this lens, environmental action and research risk—albeit inadvertently—further entrenching sociopolitical injustices. Employing a conflict-sensitive, peace-positive, and environmental justice-responsive approach can produce more sustainable outcomes.