# Ecocritical extraction analysis: A method for studying resource exploitation and environmental justice in literature

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a new method for analyzing how literature portrays human exploitation of nature and environmental justice issues.

## Contribution

The paper introduces Ecocritical Extraction Analysis (EEA), a novel framework for studying literary depictions of resource extraction and environmental justice.

## Key findings

- 76% of analyzed texts critique extractivist economies.
- 64% of texts depict resistance movements against environmental exploitation.

## Abstract

The increasing urgency of environmental crises necessitates innovative methodologies for analyzing literary representations of human exploitation of nature. This article introduces Ecocritical Extraction Analysis (EEA), a structured framework for studying literary depictions of resource extraction, ecological degradation, and human-nature power dynamics. EEA consists of three analytical steps: (1) Extraction Mapping, identifying instances of environmental exploitation and their socio-political context; (2) Human-Nature Power Structures, examining how texts construct hierarchies between humans, nature, and resource control; and (3) Resistance and Collapse Trajectories, tracing literary representations of environmental resistance, sustainability, or collapse. By applying this replicable method to literary texts, EEA provides scholars with a systematic tool to explore extractivism, climate narratives, and environmental justice in literature- revealed that 76% of texts critique extractivist economies, while 64% depict resistance movements. These findings validate EEA’s applicability and originality in bridging literary analysis with environmental justice frameworks, making it a valuable tool for contemporary ecocritical research.•Introduces Ecocritical Extraction Analysis (EEA) as a novel literary method.•Provides a structured approach to studying extractivist narratives and power hierarchies.•Enhances interdisciplinary ecocritical research in climate literature and environmental justice.

Introduces Ecocritical Extraction Analysis (EEA) as a novel literary method.

Provides a structured approach to studying extractivist narratives and power hierarchies.

Enhances interdisciplinary ecocritical research in climate literature and environmental justice.

Image, graphical abstract