Florida’s Sugar Industry Impact on Underprivileged Communities
In the heart of Florida lies a remote area, Belle Glade, where the sugar industry thrives, making the state the top producer of sugarcane in the country. From fall to spring, fires burn in fields across the region, emitting plumes of smoke that rain black ash across three counties. Residents refer to this ash as “black snow.”
A study revealed that the smoke and ash from these fires are disproportionately impacting low-income communities, particularly people of color living and working in the cane fields. The fires and resulting pollution have led to a hot spot of PM2.5, particles small enough to penetrate deep within the lungs, in south Florida. This pollution is linked to various health issues, including lung cancer, cardiopulmonary disease, and premature death.
Christopher Holmes, an associate professor of earth, ocean, and atmospheric science at Florida State University, highlighted the dangers of fine particles in the atmosphere, emphasizing the potential increase in mortality rates. The pollution from crop burns in the Everglades Agricultural Area is comparable to that of all vehicles in the state.
The sugar industry in Florida maintains that the air quality in the region meets Environmental Protection Agency standards. Despite this claim, reports suggest that monitoring stations in Belle Glade have been malfunctioning, raising concerns about the accuracy of air quality data. The industry’s impact on the environment has sparked a debate between community members and policymakers.
The Biden administration aims to strengthen air quality standards for PM2.5, with potential health benefits for residents. However, challenges are expected as the industry continues its operations. The fires emit pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde, which can lead to serious health issues, including leukemia and respiratory problems.
Efforts to address the pollution caused by the sugar industry have been met with resistance, as the burns are seen as crucial for crop harvest efficiency. While green harvesting methods have been proposed as an alternative, the industry’s influence remains a significant factor in the ongoing debate.
Residents of the Everglades Agricultural Area have raised concerns about the industry’s impact on their health and well-being. Many feel unheard and marginalized in their fight for cleaner air and a safer environment. Despite facing challenges, community members are determined to raise awareness about the environmental injustices they face.
The future of the region remains uncertain, with ongoing concerns about land subsidence and sustainable farming practices. Environmental groups advocate for changes in land usage to support the restoration of the Everglades. Residents hope for a better future, free from the harmful effects of the sugar industry’s operations.
The story of Belle Glade and the Everglades Agricultural Area highlights the complex challenges of environmental justice and the need for community voices to be heard. As residents continue to push for change, their resilience and determination serve as a reminder of the power of collective action in addressing environmental issues.
