NCJ Number
200265
Journal
Theoretical Criminology Volume: 7 Issue: 2 Dated: May 2003 Pages: 217-238
Date Published
May 2003
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This paper explores alternative definitions of the term "green" as it is used in the concepts of "green" criminology.
Abstract
The popular base of the environmental movement was rapidly reconstructed in the 1990's in definitional rather than behavioral terms as corporations manipulated and remade the term "green." Corporations' ability to "appear green" (concerned about the environment and compliant with environmental-protection regulations) was achieved through massive public relations and advertising campaigns and reflected the immense resources at their command. The corporate redefinition of the word "green" presented the public with a mild, less radical, and de-politicized environmental vision along with less drastic responses to environmental issues. In discussing the alternative environmental justice construction of "green," this paper discusses the tenets of "ecofeminism," "environmental racism," and the "red-green" movement. These diverse environmental justice movements advocate many similar policies that link their views. These are the politics of being "green," the multi-issue basis of "green" theory and the inclusion of a theory of oppression in "green" theoretical perspectives, and the appeal to historically situated theory and understanding. From the perspective of environmental justice, a "green" crime is an act that may or may not violate existing rules and environmental regulations; has identifiable environmental damage outcomes; and originated in human actions. After contrasting the corporate and environmental justice views of "green," the paper addresses three other issues: Is a "green" criminology necessary? If so, which of the two views should be its basis? What are the basic issues that must be included in an alternative perspective? In offering an alternative concept of "green," this paper highlights common elements in social movements concerned with environmental justice while emphasizing these movements' commitment to simultaneously incorporating race, class, and gender-oriented issues into "green" criminology. 4 notes and 75 references