Tulane Study Reveals Racial Disparities in U.S. Petrochemical Workforce

A new Tulane University-led study has confirmed longstanding concerns of Black communities in Louisiana’s petrochemical corridor, revealing that people of color are significantly underrepresented in both high- and low-paying jobs at chemical plants and refineries. The research, published in Ecological Economics, found these disparities were most pronounced in Louisiana and Texas, despite people of color bearing the brunt of toxic pollution in areas like 'Cancer Alley.' The study also showed that differences in education did not account for these employment gaps, challenging the economic justification that the industry benefits local communities equally. While industry representatives highlighted initiatives to support workforce and educational development, they criticized the study as offering an incomplete and potentially misleading picture of the sector’s contributions. Community advocates emphasized that the documented disparities match what local residents have experienced for decades, underscoring the need for more equitable employment practices. The Environmental Protection Agency has also noted that pollution burdens fall disproportionately on Black and poor communities in the region.