Has pollution been democratized? A study of technological and environmental risks associated with industrialization in a Brazilian semi-arid region

Abstract

Does the global dimension of environmental changes allows us to talk about "pollution democratization", as proposed by Ulrich Beck and Anthony Giddens in the risk society theory? How do reflexive modernization and ecologic modernization apply to the developing countries context? What are the socio-environmental implications of the current international labor division? These questions are the theoretical framework for a study of some aspects of the sustainability of the presently occurring industrialization process in the Ceará State, Northeastern of Brazil. Between 1995 and 1998, 432 companies chose to implant new industries in 62 municipalities of Ceará State, producing: foodstuffs and beverages, clothing, shoes, mechanical parts, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, electrical appliances end electronics, and textiles. According to the classification of occupational risks and potential for degrading the environment, most of all these areas fall within the highest range of the classification. In conclusion, there is in Ceará State a tendency to attract health and environment-damaging industries in which the developed countries have little interest due to potentially high costs in protective measures. The study suggests that there is a socio-spatial stratification of the labor division, which one, added with other social, political and institutional factors, shows a socio-political amplification of technological and environmental risks, emphasizes negative effects upon the life quality of the population.