Research developed by young people in 15 communities of Grande Rio shows how environmental racism presents itself in the access to quality water and energy
Between May and June 2022, young people and leaders from 15 communities of Grande Rio carried out research that is included in the document “Water and energy justice in the favelas: researchers from the territories collect data evidencing inequality and the call for action.” 1,156 families gave statements about the access, quality and efficiency of water and electricity in their homes. The results clearly show how environmental racism, related to water and energy issues, presents itself in the day-to-day life of the 15 territories included in the research.
The outcome is the result of the course “Researching and Monitoring Water and Energy Justice in the Favelas,” which was conceived within the scope of the discussions of the Unifying Panel of the Favelas and the Sustainable Favela Network, which are networks coordinated by the Catalyst Communities (ComCat).
The data about water shows that a considerable percentage of the population suffers from serious problems of quality and variability of delivery (52.6% feel that the supply worsens during the summer). There is also constant flooding, leaks and neglect by the water company. In relation to electricity, the greatest negligence is observed in the high value of the bills, which leads many families to a condition of energy poverty and has an impact on their food purchasing and their quality of life.
