DeepSummary
The episode discusses the flooding issues faced by residents in the Phillips community of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, caused by new housing developments being built on wetlands and floodplains. Richard Habersham, a long-time resident, shares how his property is increasingly affected by floods due to the loss of natural flood mitigation systems like wetlands.
The episode examines the importance of preserving wetlands and forests for flood control, water filtration, and wildlife habitats. Jenny Brennan from the Southern Environmental Law Center explains how wetlands act as natural sponges, absorbing excess water and protecting urbanized areas during storms.
The episode also explores the concept of "heirs property" and how it affects the ability of generational African American landowners like Richard Habersham to access disaster aid or property buyouts. Al George, from the Charleston Aquarium, discusses the need for inclusive planning to address sea level rise and give disadvantaged communities more time to adapt.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Development on wetlands and floodplains in Charleston and its suburbs is exacerbating flooding issues for existing communities.
- Preserving natural flood mitigation systems like wetlands and forests is crucial for flood control and protecting urbanized areas.
- The concept of "heirs property" makes it difficult for generational African American landowners to access disaster aid or property buyouts.
- Inclusive planning and community engagement are needed to address sea level rise and flooding equitably, without disproportionately impacting disadvantaged communities.
- Environmental justice principles should guide decision-making processes to ensure the burdens of environmental issues are not borne disproportionately by marginalized communities.
- Providing disadvantaged communities with more time and resources to adapt to the impacts of climate change and sea level rise is essential.
- Balancing development needs with environmental protection and community concerns is a complex challenge that requires careful consideration of multiple factors.
- The concept of "managed retreat" from flood-prone areas is a sensitive but necessary discussion in the face of rising sea levels.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “We're not going to be able to wall in the world from the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. We're just not. So if you live in an area that's tidally influenced and you live close to the water, you're really at risk. Okay. And you can't expect the government to come in and build a wall around your home.“ by Mark Wilbert
- “What can you give people that have little or limited resources? And my response is, the best thing you give them is time.“ by Al George
- “When we talk about environmental justice and climate justice, we have to understand that those who have contributed leads to the problem of environmental pollution and degradation. And this whole issue of ecological destruction will feel the pain first, worst, and longest.“ by Robert Bullard
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Episode Information
Broken Ground
Southern Environmental Law Center
8/12/20
In Charleston, South Carolina and its suburbs questions of environmental justice and wetland protections arise as development encroaches.