Green Literature and Environmental Justice: Eco-Critical Reflections on Nature and Sustainability

Abstract

Green literature is a literary genre that evolves and explores the complex relationship between humans and the environment, promoting sustainability, conservation justice, and a thoughtful appreciation for environmental interdependence. This article traces the origins and development of green literature—from early pastoral traditions to the rise of eco-criticism in the twentieth century—and examines its thematic focus on portraying nature as a dynamic entity. It critiques anthropocentrism and highlights the role of literature in addressing the social dimensions of climate change and ecological crises. Through diverse forms such as poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and drama, green literature mobilises readers to reflect on their ecological footprint and engage in environmental stewardship. Furthermore, the article underscores the intersectionality of environmental justice by shedding light on the experiences of marginalised communities most affected by environmental degradation. Ultimately, green literature offers both a warning and a call to action in the face of pressing global environmental challenges.