Book Review: Pollution is Colonialism

Book Review by Meagan Malcolm, Policy Analyst Watchdog

"Pollution is Colonialism"

written by Red River Métis/Michif Max Liboiron, is a thought-provoking book that examines the intersections of environmental science, pollution, and colonialism. The book explores how colonialism shapes scientific practices, environmental policies, and societal understandings of pollution. Liboiron emphasizes that pollution and its impacts continue to be disproportionately affecting Indigenous communities. Through a series of case studies and theoretical discussions, Liboiron emphasizes the importance of Indigenous methodologies in understanding and addressing pollution. They argues that Indigenous approaches to environmental issues are not just alternatives, but are necessary for truly addressing the root causes of pollution. 

Liboiron illustrates how colonial attitudes persist in contemporary environmental science and policy. A key argument Liboiron makes is calling for decolonization of environmental science, and advocating for inclusive and equitable approaches that respect Indigenous sovereignty and knowledge. The book discusses ocean plastics in Newfoundland as a significant case study to illustrate how pollution is tied to colonialism, particularly through the lens of plastic pollution in marine environments. Liboiron argues that ocean plastics in Newfoundland are not just an environmental issue, but are deeply embedded in the colonial history and present of the region. Newfoundland, like much of Canada, is part of a settler colonial state where Indigenous lands and waters have been exploited for centuries. The pollution of these waters with plastics is seen as an extension of this exploitation. Similarly, Lake Winnipeg continues to face ongoing water quality issues. This form of environmental degradation can be seen as a manifestation of colonial practices, where land and water are exploited without regard for the long-term impacts on Indigenous peoples and their lands. 

"Pollution is Colonialism" is an essential read for anyone interested in environmental science, social justice, and decolonization. As an Indigenous researcher, I had to navigate and qualify through colonial structures like academic institutions to pursue a career advocating for Lake Winnipeg. However, land users and fishers, who may not have the same access to these institutions, possess a wealth of knowledge about the lake and its impacts—knowledge that continues to be overlooked and undervalued by traditional scientific research.  

Liboiron provides a critical lens through which to view pollution, urging readers to recognize and address the colonial roots of environmental harm. The book calls for the adoption of practices that center Indigenous perspectives, aiming to dismantle the colonial frameworks that marginalize Indigenous voices in environmental science and policy. By doing so, it paves the way for a more just and sustainable future. As a member of the Lake Winnipeg Indigenous Collective (LWIC), I believe that working with people and land goes beyond just the scientific method. When developing protocols, we should consider all the ways we relate to the land and how this work impacts those relationships, and we should not hesitate to push back against harmful practices. At LWIC, we ground our work in creating and maintaining relationships within Indigenous communities that challenge traditional scientific approaches. 

(M.M.)