The practice of pre-harvest sugarcane burning in Florida has long been a contentious issue, particularly concerning its adverse effects on under-resourced communities. This method, employed by sugarcane producers to prepare fields for harvest, releases substantial amounts of smoke and ash into the atmosphere, significantly impacting air quality. The communities most affected are predominantly low-income and communities of color, raising serious environmental justice concerns.

Historical Context of Sugarcane Burning in Florida

Sugarcane burning has been a traditional agricultural practice in Florida’s Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) for decades. This method involves setting fire to sugarcane fields before harvest to remove leaves and other non-sugar components, facilitating easier extraction of sugar. However, this practice releases large quantities of particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, and other pollutants into the air, contributing to environmental degradation and posing health risks to nearby populations.

Health Implications for Affected Communities

The residents of communities adjacent to sugarcane fields are exposed to elevated levels of air pollution due to these burnings. Research indicates a significant association between sugarcane burning and increased asthma incidence rates among these populations. A study conducted by Dr. Michée Lachaud, an agricultural and environmental economist at Florida A&M University, found a 10.8% increase in physician-diagnosed asthma cases linked to PM2.5 emissions from sugarcane fires.

Everglades Foundation

Furthermore, a comprehensive study estimated that sugarcane fires contribute to approximately 2.5 premature deaths annually across South Florida, with 0.72 of these deaths occurring in Palm Beach County.

ehp.niehs.nih.gov

These statistics underscore the severe public health threat posed by the continued use of sugarcane burning in the region.

Environmental Racism and Disproportionate Impact

The adverse effects of sugarcane burning are not uniformly distributed; they disproportionately affect communities of color. This disparity exemplifies environmental racism, where marginalized communities bear a disproportionate share of environmental hazards. In Florida, the prevailing wind patterns during the burning season direct smoke and ash towards predominantly Black communities such as Pahokee, South Bay, and Belle Glade.

pulitzercenter.org

Residents in these areas report frequent ashfall and smoke infiltration into their homes, leading to respiratory issues and diminished quality of life. Despite these challenges, there has been a notable lack of adequate regulatory measures to protect these vulnerable populations. This situation highlights systemic inequities and calls for urgent policy interventions to address these environmental injustices.

Economic and Social Ramifications

Beyond health implications, the pollution resulting from sugarcane burning has broader economic and social impacts on affected communities. The persistent environmental degradation hampers local economic development, deters investment, and perpetuates cycles of poverty. Educational attainment and workforce productivity are also negatively influenced, as health issues related to pollution lead to increased absenteeism and reduced academic performance.

Industry Response and Accountability

The sugar industry, led by major players such as Florida Crystals and U.S. Sugar, has faced scrutiny over its environmental practices. In response to allegations of misleading environmental claims, Florida Crystals has been accused of “greenwashing,” presenting an eco-friendly image while continuing practices like pre-harvest burning. A class-action lawsuit filed against the company seeks to end these deceptive claims and hold the corporation accountable for its environmental impact.

theguardian.com

Policy and Regulatory Landscape

The regulatory framework governing sugarcane burning has been a subject of debate. While some measures have been introduced to mitigate the practice’s impact, critics argue that existing laws are insufficient and often favor the sugar industry. For instance, Senate Bill 88, enacted in 2021, provides protections to the sugarcane industry, limiting legal actions related to burning practices.

Everglades Foundation

This legislation has sparked calls for more stringent regulations to safeguard public health and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Alternative Harvesting Methods

Globally, alternative sugarcane harvesting methods have been adopted to reduce environmental and health impacts. Countries like Brazil, the world’s largest sugarcane producer, have transitioned to mechanical harvesting techniques, eliminating the need for burning. This shift not only preserves air quality but also offers economic benefits by reducing health-related costs and improving labor conditions. The success of such methods presents a compelling case for reevaluating and reforming agricultural practices in Florida.

propublica.org

Community Advocacy and Legal Actions

Affected communities have increasingly mobilized to address the injustices they face. Grassroots organizations and advocacy groups are at the forefront of efforts to raise awareness, influence policy changes, and seek legal remedies. These groups highlight the need for environmental justice and equitable treatment, demanding that the voices of marginalized communities be heard and considered in decision-making processes.

Conclusion

The intersection of sugarcane farming practices and environmental justice in Florida presents a complex and urgent issue. The continued use of pre-harvest burning exposes under-resourced communities, particularly those of color, to significant health risks and environmental degradation. Addressing this challenge requires a multifaceted approach, including policy reform, industry accountability, adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, and empowerment of affected communities. Only through concerted efforts can the cycle of pollution and inequity be broken, paving the way for a healthier and more just future for all Floridians.