Final answer:
The term for the situation where people of color are more affected by urban air pollution due to residing disproportionately in cities is known as 'environmental racism.' It involves a complex interplay of socioeconomic factors, historical patterns, and political power that leads to unequal exposure to environmental hazards and health risks for minority communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The disparity where people of color disproportionately live in cities and urban air pollution affects them more than it affects white people is sometimes called environmental racism. This refers to the phenomenon where minority group neighborhoods, primarily populated by people of color and those from low socioeconomic groups, face a heavier burden of environmental hazards. These can include toxic waste facilities, garbage dumps, and other sources of pollution which can lower the quality of life and contribute to health problems due to higher exposure to these dangers.
Environmental racism can manifest itself in unsafe work conditions, proximity to toxic materials, and living in neighborhoods close to environmental disamenities due to fewer financial means or discriminatory practices. This results in poor health outcomes for minority groups, as evidenced by higher rates of asthma, lead poisoning, and other health issues linked to pollution. The social and political structures often make it more difficult for these communities to advocate for cleaner and healthier environments.
Historical patterns, current socioeconomic status, and a lack of political clout contribute to environmental injustice, making it a complex issue that affects various aspects of lives in minority communities. This can be observed not just nationally but also on a global scale, with developing countries facing similar challenges.