Table of Contents
Overview
Definition of Environmental Health
Environmental health (EH) is a branch of public health that addresses the natural and built environments' impact on human health. It involves identifying, assessing, and managing environmental hazards to prevent illness and injury, thereby fostering conditions that support health and prevent disease.[3.1][6.1][6.3] Key concerns in this field include air quality, both indoors and outdoors, with outdoor air pollution stemming from sources like industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and agricultural practices.[5.1] Additionally, EH encompasses issues such as lead poisoning, arsenic toxicity, reproductive toxicity, occupational health, climate emergencies, and threats from chemical and biological terrorism.[1.1] Understanding these elements is crucial for comprehending the full scope of environmental health and its impact on human well-being, reflecting an anthropocentric perspective that aims to enhance human longevity and well-being.[2.1][6.2][3.2]Importance of Environmental Health in Public Health Outcomes
Environmental health is pivotal in shaping public health outcomes, primarily through the implementation of effective environmental policies. Research consistently shows a positive correlation between robust environmental policies and improved public health outcomes, indicating that stringent regulations can yield significant health benefits.[11.1] Policies that regulate air and water quality, manage waste, and control chemical exposure are crucial in mitigating environmental risks and promoting healthier living conditions.[8.1] The relationship between environmental health and public health outcomes is increasingly recognized as essential in contemporary policy discussions. Evaluating the effectiveness of air quality regulations is a critical aspect of this relationship, as improvements in air quality have been linked to better public health outcomes. This evaluation process, often referred to as accountability, is part of an emerging effort to assess the effectiveness of environmental regulatory policies.[10.1] In recent decades, substantial improvements in air quality have been observed in the United States and Western Europe, resulting in significantly less visible pollution and healthier living conditions.[10.1] These policies not only help prevent health risks related to toxic substances but also support sustainable practices, such as organic farming and reduced use of synthetic chemicals, which further decrease the risk of foodborne illnesses and chronic health conditions.[8.1] Thus, the implementation of effective environmental policies is essential for enhancing public health outcomes.[8.1] In light of recent climate change initiatives, integrating public health policies with climate action has emerged as a practical pathway to enhance climate mitigation efforts. Experts advocate for the transition from climate ambitions to actionable public health policies that encompass climate co-benefits, thereby fostering a dual approach to health and environmental sustainability.[9.1] The evaluation of environmental health policies is critical for protecting public health from environmental exposures. Existing and proposed risk and health-impact metrics play a significant role in this evaluation, as they help identify the strengths and weaknesses of these policies within a comparative risk and policy analysis framework.[13.1] Furthermore, environmental metrics provide valuable information that, when integrated with other community health metrics, can assist in identifying problems, defining priorities, informing policy development, comparing different communities, assessing health disparities, and monitoring progress over time in achieving public health goals.[14.1] Community engagement is essential in addressing environmental health challenges, as it can empower vulnerable populations and identify critical environmental issues that need to be addressed.[15.1] Successful community health improvement efforts often require specific attributes, such as leadership, collaboration infrastructure, and a shared vision, which are vital for organizing and mobilizing communities toward health equity.[17.1] Furthermore, the involvement of universities and external organizations significantly enhances the outcomes of citizen science and community projects, as these collaborations provide necessary information, training, and social interaction, ultimately improving participants' knowledge and attitudes toward environmental health.[18.1] By fostering stronger relationships between community members and participating organizations, these initiatives can lead to more effective environmental health interventions.In this section:
History
Milestones in Environmental Legislation
Significant milestones in environmental legislation have played a crucial role in shaping the governance of natural resources and public health. One of the most pivotal laws in this context is the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), enacted in 1969. NEPA established a framework for federal agencies to assess the environmental impacts of their proposed actions, thereby promoting informed decision-making and public participation in environmental governance.[69.1] The evolution of environmental regulations continued with the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970, which was created through Presidential Executive Order Reorganization Plan No. 3. This agency has been instrumental in enforcing environmental laws and protecting public health.[71.1] Another significant legislative milestone is the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), enacted in 1980, which established the Superfund program to address hazardous waste sites and mitigate their impact on communities.[71.1] In addition to these foundational laws, Executive Order 12898, signed by President William J. Clinton in 1994, focused federal attention on the environmental and human health effects of federal actions on minority and low-income populations. This order aimed to achieve environmental protection for all communities, highlighting the importance of environmental justice in public health policy.[70.1] The intersection of environmental law and public health underscores the critical impact that environmental quality has on human health outcomes. Environmental health laws are designed to mitigate risks posed by pollutants and hazardous substances, thereby enhancing community well-being and overall health outcomes.[73.1] These legislative milestones collectively illustrate the ongoing efforts to integrate environmental considerations into public health policy, reflecting a growing recognition of the interconnectedness of these fields.Evolution of Environmental Health Practices
The evolution of environmental health practices has been profoundly shaped by the Industrial Revolution, a period marked by rapid industrialization that led to significant environmental challenges. This era saw the extensive exploitation of natural resources, resulting in severe pollution and long-term environmental damage. Industrial cities were characterized by thick smog due to air pollution, while waterways became heavily contaminated with oil and debris from improper industrial practices, leading to numerous environmental disasters.[48.1] Additionally, the Industrial Revolution spurred rapid urbanization, as new and expanding industries caused villages and towns to swell into vast cities; for instance, the population of the Port of Liverpool surged from a few thousand to tens of thousands within a century.[49.1] This dramatic increase in urban populations underscored the urgent need for public health responses to mitigate the adverse effects of environmental degradation. In response to these challenges, significant legislative measures were enacted, such as the 1848 Public Health Act in Britain, aimed at controlling environmental conditions and mitigating their impact on public health.[50.1] The establishment of the Royal Sanitary Institute in 1877 marked the beginning of the formal development of the environmental health profession in Britain, which subsequently influenced practices in other countries, including Nigeria, where environmental health services began to take shape in the 1920s.[50.1] The role of government agencies, particularly the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States, has also been pivotal in shaping environmental health practices. Over the years, the EPA has initiated national programs to focus enforcement and compliance resources on serious environmental issues, reflecting a commitment to public health and environmental goals.[45.1] However, the agency has faced numerous challenges, including regulatory rollbacks and budget cuts, which have complicated its ability to enforce environmental health regulations effectively.[44.1] Reports have indicated that the EPA has struggled with communication and coordination with state agencies, which is crucial for effective environmental management.[47.1]In this section:
Recent Advancements
Current Research Trends in Environmental Health
Recent advancements in environmental health have been characterized by several key research trends that aim to address the complex interplay between environmental factors and human health. One significant development is the shift towards precision environmental health, which emphasizes the need to capture data from multiple ‘omic layers—such as genomics, epigenomics, and microbiomics—to assess how environmental exposures impact individuals. This integrated, data-driven approach allows for the identification of specific molecular endotypes and risk factors associated with disease pathogenesis, thereby facilitating the development of targeted interventions to improve health outcomes and prevent disease.[108.1] To address the urgent need for measures against the escalating triple planetary crisis, the World Health Organization (WHO) has developed a repository of systematic reviews focused on interventions related to environment, climate change, and health (ECH).[81.1] This repository aims to facilitate the use of the growing body of evidence demonstrating the inextricable link between human health and planetary health. The triple planetary crisis, which encompasses climate change, nature loss, pollution, and waste, is driven by eight critical global shifts identified in the Global Foresight Report produced by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Science Council (ISC).[112.1] Additionally, the report highlights the rise of armed conflict and violence, as well as the human health and environmental impacts of forced displacement, as significant signals of change that must be anticipated in addressing these interconnected challenges.[112.1] In the realm of environmental remediation, recent advancements have focused on innovative techniques for cleaning up emerging pollutants from soil and water. For instance, the use of nanotechnology has shown promise in enhancing pollutant removal efficiency, while methods such as phytoremediation and bioremediation leverage natural processes to address soil contamination sustainably. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), including photocatalysis and ozonation, have also been developed to effectively degrade persistent pollutants in water, thereby improving overall water quality.[82.1] Community empowerment is recognized as a vital approach to enhancing health outcomes across diverse social, economic, and cultural contexts. This strategy emphasizes the active involvement of communities in managing their health, which has been shown to improve public health initiatives significantly.[100.1] A systematic review indicates that community participation in the development, implementation, and evaluation of health services is crucial, as it involves various stakeholders, including service users and public representatives.[101.1] Furthermore, grassroots democracy plays a significant role in shaping public health initiatives through local decision-making and community collaboration. A recent study found that municipal-led health initiatives in urban areas have led to a notable reduction in hospital admissions for preventable conditions, such as respiratory infections and cardiovascular diseases, highlighting the effectiveness of community-driven actions.[102.1] By integrating these community-focused strategies into public health frameworks, initiatives not only address immediate health concerns but also foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.[102.1]Technological Innovations in Monitoring Environmental Health
Recent advancements in technology have significantly enhanced the monitoring of environmental health, particularly through the integration of smart technologies and data analytics. The systematic collection of environmental data, such as air and water quality, soil health, and weather patterns, has been greatly improved by the advent of Internet of Things (IoT) technology. This technology enables the deployment of a network of connected sensors that continuously gather data from various sources, thereby facilitating real-time monitoring and response to environmental conditions.[86.1] Artificial Intelligence (AI) has also emerged as a pivotal tool in environmental monitoring, offering capabilities such as accurate disaster forecasts, pollution source detection, and comprehensive assessments of air and water quality. Despite facing challenges like a shortage of specialized AI experts and issues related to data access and privacy, the potential of AI in this field remains promising. Advancements in AI algorithms and data collection techniques are expected to further enhance the accuracy and efficiency of pollution monitoring and management.[93.1] The integration of machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) into environmental health initiatives offers significant advantages in data analysis and risk assessment. These technologies excel in various analytical tasks, including feature extraction, clustering, classification, regression, image recognition, and prediction, which are crucial for understanding environmental ecology and health (EEH).[92.1] ML and DL have been increasingly applied in studies to provide predictive insights into EEH fields, such as identifying key risk factors, forecasting pollution, evaluating public health disease risks, and optimizing environmental engineering technologies.[92.1] Furthermore, the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, and biomedical big data holds promise for transforming our understanding of human health and disease. This transformation is driven by the increasing availability and ability to generate, collect, and analyze both environmental and biomedical data, alongside advancements in computing power, which facilitate the rapid development of AI and ML applications in research.[94.1] Local governments are increasingly recognizing the importance of integrating environmental protection and health, taking deliberate actions to reduce health disparities and safeguard vulnerable populations from adverse environmental conditions. The use of digital technology in local government environmental governance has been shown to enhance both efficiency and equity, although the short-term green effects may be tempered by the uncertainties associated with internet technologies.[84.1]Environmental Pollutants
Types of Environmental Pollutants
Environmental pollutants can be categorized into various types, with heavy metals and particulate matter (PM) being significant contributors to environmental and public health concerns. Megacities, in particular, face considerable challenges related to pollution, especially concerning elevated levels of heavy metals in PM. Despite advancements in interdisciplinary methods for analyzing heavy metal sources, effectively integrating these approaches to identify sources in PM remains a significant hurdle.[133.1] Heavy metals are pollutants that are monitored due to their detrimental effects on human health, often detected at concentrations lower than 10 parts per million (ppm) in various environmental matrices. Their presence is primarily influenced by industrial activities such as mining, agriculture, and transportation, as well as natural phenomena like volcanic eruptions and corrosion of installations.[136.1] The dispersion of heavy metal sources is notably concentrated in regions such as Asia, the European Union, and North America, with the Industrial Operations Sector (IOS) identified as the largest contributor to global heavy metal emissions, accounting for 47.3% of total annual emissions.[135.1] The sources of particulate matter (PM) and heavy metals in the environment are varied, with high-temperature fuel combustion processes of biomass being a significant contributor to their emissions.[134.1] A comprehensive review aims to explore the characteristics, sources, exposure risks, and health impacts of heavy metal pollution in atmospheric PM, addressing how these pollutants vary across regions, seasons, and particle sizes.[137.1] It is commonly recognized that the total amount of heavy metals is often used as the primary evaluation criterion for assessing pollution conditions; however, the chemical speciation of these metals is crucial, as it determines their bioavailability and the potential risks they pose to both the environment and human health.[139.1]Health Impacts of Environmental Pollutants
Environmental pollutants have significant adverse effects on human health, impacting various systems and leading to a range of health outcomes. Research has identified multiple associations between environmental factors, including air pollution, climate change, and meteorological conditions, and their impact on health outcomes such as respiratory, cardiovascular, metabolic, gastrointestinal, renal, urogenital, and neurological disorders.[116.1] Air pollution, both ambient and indoor, is particularly concerning, contributing to approximately 7 million premature deaths annually. This high mortality rate is largely attributed to increased incidences of stroke, ischemic heart disease (IHD), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.[120.1] The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted that pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) pose significant public health risks.[119.1] Specific pollutants, such as pesticides, have also been linked to health issues. For instance, exposure to certain insecticides has been associated with respiratory symptoms and exacerbation of asthma, particularly in children.[118.1] Additionally, the burning of plastic emits toxins that can lead to severe lung damage and respiratory conditions like asthma and emphysema.[118.1] The effects of environmental pollutants extend beyond immediate health concerns; they also pose long-term risks to ecosystems and human well-being. Heavy metal pollution in water sources is a global issue that threatens both aquatic ecosystems and human health.[117.1] In response to these challenges, public health policies aimed at reducing exposure to environmental pollutants have been implemented. The WHO advocates for policies and programs to mitigate air pollution at various levels, emphasizing the need for evidence-based approaches to protect public health.[125.1] Effective measures include the Clean Air Act, which provides legal tools for governmental bodies to address pollution and protect air quality.[127.1] Furthermore, integrated pollution management policies are estimated to yield significant economic benefits while simultaneously reducing health risks associated with pollution.[128.1]Global Impact Of Environmental Health Risks
Statistics on Environmental Health Risks
Pollution is recognized as the world's largest environmental threat to human health, accounting for 15% of all global deaths in 2017, which translates to approximately 275 million Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) lost.[157.1] The Global Risks Report 2025 emphasizes that environmental risks, including pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss, are among the most pressing global challenges that necessitate urgent action.[158.1] Healthier environments could potentially prevent nearly one-quarter of the global burden of disease, highlighting the critical link between environmental conditions and public health.[159.1] The ongoing environmental crisis, characterized by intensified climate change, declining biodiversity, and pervasive pollution, has profound health implications. These impacts manifest not only directly through exposure to harmful substances but also indirectly via effects on food production, migration, economic instability, and social inequalities.[160.1] In terms of specific health outcomes, air pollution remains a significant concern, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting that it was responsible for approximately 6.7 million deaths in 2019 due to both ambient and household air pollution.[191.1] This statistic underscores the urgent need to address air quality as a major environmental risk factor. Furthermore, household air pollution continues to be a leading global risk factor, despite a reduction in the use of solid fuels for cooking, contributing significantly to the overall burden of disease.[192.1] The relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and environmental health risks is also noteworthy. Evidence suggests that individuals with lower SES are disproportionately exposed to environmental hazards, such as hazardous waste and air pollutants, which exacerbates health disparities.[173.1] This dynamic illustrates the intersection of environmental health risks and social determinants of health, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to protect vulnerable populations.Case Studies of Environmental Health Disasters
Environmental health disasters often disproportionately affect marginalized communities, particularly those with low socioeconomic status. These communities frequently experience a higher burden of environmental risks due to their living and working conditions, which are often characterized by increased exposure to pollution and other health hazards. For instance, individuals in lower income brackets are more likely to reside in areas with higher pollution levels, leading to a cycle of poor health outcomes that is difficult to escape. This cycle is exacerbated by factors such as higher rates of teen pregnancy, high school dropouts, and trauma, all of which are associated with low socioeconomic status and contribute to increased vulnerability to disease and premature death.[174.1] In response to emerging environmental health risks, community engagement has evolved significantly. Effective strategies for empowering marginalized communities include participatory research initiatives that enhance environmental health literacy and leadership skills. For example, programs aimed at improving Latino youths' understanding of chemical exposures in cosmetics have demonstrated success in fostering advocacy and awareness within these communities.[162.1] Furthermore, community-based participatory research has been instrumental in communicating environmental exposure results and health information, thereby facilitating informed decision-making and advocacy.[162.1] The impact of climate-driven events, such as heat waves, wildfires, and flooding, further underscores the need for community resilience. These events not only impair air and water quality but also increase health risks for residents. To combat these challenges, resources and information are essential for communities to prepare for, withstand, and recover from climate-related disasters. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is actively engaged in research aimed at identifying vulnerable communities and developing science-based resources to support climate change adaptation and resilience strategies.[163.1] By fostering partnerships between researchers and communities, there is potential for more effective advocacy for policies that reduce environmental risks and improve public health outcomes.[161.1]In this section:
Policy And Regulation
Role of Government Agencies in Environmental Health
Government agencies play a vital role in the regulation and enforcement of environmental health policies across various levels, including local, state, and national.[194.1] These agencies are guided by several key principles that inform the development of environmental policies, such as the prevention of environmental harm, cost-effectiveness, and the 'polluter pays' principle, which mandates that those responsible for pollution bear the costs associated with it.[195.1] The 'polluter pays' principle is typically implemented through command-and-control and market-based approaches, which include performance and technology standards.[202.1] Furthermore, these agencies are tasked with describing key environmental health regulatory agencies, stating the principles that guide environmental policy development, and discussing major environmental laws that have been introduced in recent years.[194.1] Overall, the multifaceted role of government agencies is essential in developing and enforcing policies that aim to protect public health and the environment. In the field of environmental health, various regulatory agencies function at federal, state, and local levels to implement and enforce policies designed to safeguard public health and the environment. Recent discussions have identified four general approaches to environmental policy-making: (1) command-and-control regulation, (2) market-based approaches, (3) hybrid and other approaches, and (4) voluntary programs.[197.1] Command-and-control regulation has historically been a prevalent method in environmental regulation, although there is increasing interest in market-based and hybrid strategies that may provide greater flexibility and efficiency in achieving environmental objectives.[197.1] Understanding these approaches is essential for comprehending the principles that guide environmental policy development and the regulatory landscape that governs environmental health.[194.1] Moreover, government agencies are increasingly recognizing the importance of community engagement in the policymaking process. Effective collaboration with local health organizations and community-based groups is essential for addressing health disparities and ensuring that the specific needs of vulnerable populations are met.[199.1] By involving communities in decision-making, agencies can leverage local knowledge and resources, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of environmental health policies.[200.1] The impact of these policies is evident in their ability to mitigate environmental risks and promote healthier living conditions. For example, regulations aimed at improving air quality have been shown to have direct positive effects on public health, reducing the incidence of pollution-related health issues.[221.1] However, challenges remain, including budget constraints and enforcement difficulties, which necessitate innovative strategies to ensure compliance and protect community health.[222.1]International Agreements and Collaborations
International agreements and collaborations are essential in shaping environmental health policies at both national and international levels. The Brundtland Commission, established to address environmental issues, published its report titled "Our Common Future" in 1987, which laid the groundwork for understanding sustainable development. This evolution was further advanced by the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, adopted at the 1992 Earth Summit, which outlines 27 principles guiding sustainable development worldwide. These principles emphasize the integration of environmental and developmental goals, the right to development, and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. Furthermore, the declaration highlights the necessity for international cooperation and public participation in addressing environmental challenges, reflecting a more complex and interdisciplinary approach to environmental issues.[213.1] Despite the progress made through these frameworks, challenges remain in their implementation. The healthcare sector, for instance, is recognized for its social contributions, such as reducing inequality in healthcare access through innovative technologies. However, it still faces significant shortcomings regarding environmental and governance principles.[209.1] The complexity of contemporary environmental challenges, including climate change and pollution, necessitates new scientific approaches and tools, as traditional risk-based frameworks are often inadequate.[211.1] Furthermore, the evolution of legal frameworks in response to emerging environmental health challenges has been significant. Landmark legislation, such as the National Environmental Policy Act, the Clean Air Act, and the Clean Water Act, has established essential regulatory measures aimed at safeguarding public health and the environment.[227.1] These laws not only promote compliance among industries but also ensure the preservation of ecosystems for future generations.[228.1] International environmental agreements (IEAs) have also been influential in shaping national policies. A comparative analysis of how countries adapt their environmental policies in response to commitments under IEAs reveals both alignment and divergence in policy implementation across different regions.[230.1] However, the interaction between global environmental governance and global health governance remains complex and not fully understood, indicating a need for further exploration of how these domains can better integrate.[231.1]In this section:
Community Engagement And Education
Strategies for Community Involvement in Environmental Health
Community involvement in environmental health can be significantly enhanced through various strategies that prioritize engagement, education, and tailored communication. One effective approach is to develop environmental education programs that resonate with the specific needs and interests of the community. This involves identifying community needs before designing programs, ensuring that the content is relevant and engaging for the target audience.[239.1] Additionally, successful environmental education initiatives often maintain a community focus by utilizing local environments as educational tools. Such programs can foster active participation in conservation efforts, such as monitoring local stream health and organizing outreach activities.[236.1] Partnering with local organizations, including universities, can also enhance these programs by recruiting and training community members as educators, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment within the community.[237.1] Community engagement is particularly crucial for empowering vulnerable populations and addressing environmental inequalities. By actively involving these groups in the identification of local environmental issues, programs can be tailored to meet their specific needs, ultimately leading to more effective public health outcomes.[64.1] Furthermore, employing risk communication strategies that consider the diverse backgrounds of community members can improve understanding and responsiveness to environmental health risks. This includes using multi-faceted delivery methods that cater to the preferences and needs of the audience.[247.1] Moreover, initiatives like the Health Equity in Prevention (HEiP) program demonstrate the importance of policy changes that support community engagement in environmental health. By funding organizations that implement policy, systems, and environmental changes, such initiatives can effectively advance health equity and enhance community involvement.[241.1]Future Directions
Emerging Issues in Environmental Health
Community engagement is increasingly recognized as a vital component in addressing emerging issues in environmental health, particularly in the context of climate change and pollution. While global initiatives and policies are essential for mitigating climate change, the role of local communities in fostering engagement and participation is equally crucial. Community engagement empowers individuals and groups to become active participants in climate action, thereby positioning them as key agents of positive transformation in the global fight against climate change. This engagement should not only focus on mitigation strategies but also emphasize building climate resilience within communities.[277.1] Innovative, community-driven approaches are being adopted by cities to confront the health and equity impacts of climate change. Inclusive climate action that engages community organizations, residents, young people, and local governments is essential for effectively mitigating these risks. For instance, in 2021, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, in collaboration with C40 Cities, supported six U.S. cities in initiatives that intersect health, climate change, and social equity. These initiatives adapted proven strategies from global contexts to address local challenges, demonstrating the importance of pragmatic community solutions in tackling the health impacts of climate change.[278.1] As environmental health continues to evolve, the integration of community engagement strategies will be critical in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change and pollution.Predictions for Environmental Health Research and Policy
Predictions for future directions in environmental health research and policy emphasize the critical role of prevention, community engagement, and technological innovation. Knowledge is identified as a pivotal element that transitions action from theoretical understanding to practical application, with a focus on prevention as a means to eliminate hazards and improve health outcomes.[269.1] The concept of Planetary Health is gaining traction, highlighting the need to analyze and address the impacts of human activities on Earth's natural systems and their subsequent effects on human health.[270.1] Emerging areas of priority for environmental health sciences include the evaluation of community engagement initiatives, which are essential for addressing health disparities and fostering inclusive, equitable communities.[276.1] The integration of technology and innovation is also anticipated to play a significant role in shaping future research. Innovations in environmental health, such as advancements in air quality monitoring and sustainable agriculture, are expected to enhance the relationship between environmental quality and public health outcomes.[279.1] Furthermore, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in environmental monitoring is poised to revolutionize the field by providing accurate disaster forecasts and pollution source detection.[283.1] These technologies can facilitate better data analysis and risk assessment, ultimately leading to improved public health strategies. Policy frameworks will also evolve to address emerging environmental challenges. Effective environmental policies that regulate air and water quality, manage waste, and control chemical exposure are crucial for mitigating risks and promoting healthier living conditions.[284.1] Sustainable practices, such as organic farming and reduced use of synthetic chemicals, will be integral to future regulations aimed at enhancing environmental health outcomes.[284.1]In this section:
References
[1] Overview of environmental health - UpToDate — An overview of environmental health is presented here. Adult lead poisoning, arsenic toxicity, female reproductive toxicity, occupational health, climate emergencies, and chemical and biologic terrorism are discussed separately. ... Pediatric environmental health — A child's physiology and behavior put them at an increased risk for adverse
[2] Environmental Health - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics — Environmental health (EH) lies at the interface between two closely connected "old" concepts whose complexity has evolved in parallel to better accommodate the knowledge and capacity to increase the longevity and wellbeing of humankind, thus assuming an anthropocentric perspective. On the other hand, the history of EH as a scientific domain
[3] Environmental health - Wikipedia — Environmental health is the branch of public health concerned with all aspects of the natural and built environment affecting human health. To effectively control factors that may affect health, ... Overview of main health effects on humans from some common types of pollution
[5] What is Environmental Health? - The Environmental Literacy Council — Environmental health encompasses a vast range of issues. Some of the most prominent areas include: Air Quality. Air pollution is a major environmental health concern, both indoors and outdoors. Outdoor air pollution arises from a variety of sources, including industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and agricultural practices.
[6] What is Environmental Health Definition? - The Environmental Literacy ... — Environmental health seeks to identify, assess, and control environmental hazards that can lead to illness or injury, striving to create conditions that support health and prevent disease. Key Elements of Environmental Health. Understanding the full scope of environmental health requires delving into its key elements. Here are some of the most
[8] The Impact of Environmental Policies on Public Health — By regulating factors such as air and water quality, waste management, and chemical safety, these policies help mitigate environmental risks and promote healthier living conditions. Environmental policies aimed at improving air quality have a direct and positive effect on public health. Environmental policies that regulate the use and disposal of chemicals help prevent health risks related to toxic substances. Sustainable environmental policies support public health by promoting practices that protect natural resources and reduce environmental impact. Sustainable Agriculture: Regulations that promote sustainable farming practices, such as organic farming and reduced use of synthetic chemicals, support environmental health and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and chronic health conditions. Environmental policies significantly impact public health by regulating air and water quality, managing waste, controlling chemical exposure, and promoting sustainable practices.
[9] Improving climate action through public health policy initiatives — Improving climate action through public health policy initiatives | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Home / Center for Climate, Health, and the Global Environment / News / Improving climate action through public health policy initiatives Improving climate action through public health policy initiatives Implementing public health policies that also include climate co-benefits may be a practical policy pathway to accelerate climate mitigation, according to experts at a pre-COP 28 workshop hosted by the International Society for Environmental Epidemiology Policy Committee. Experts recommend public health and health care professionals take these civic engagement actions to advance climate-friendly public health policies: Transitioning from climate ambitions to climate actions through public health policy initiatives. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
[10] Evaluating the effectiveness of air quality interventions — Evaluating the extent to which air quality regulations improve public health--sometimes referred to as accountability--is part of an emerging effort to assess the effectiveness of environmental regulatory policies. Air quality has improved substantially in the United States and Western Europe in recent decades, with far less visible pollution
[11] The Influence of Environmental Policies on Public Health Outcomes — Results: The results revealed a consistent positive correlation between stronger environmental policies and improved public health outcomes. Stricter air quality regulations were correlated with
[13] Comparative risk and policy analysis in environmental health — We review existing and proposed risk and health-impact metrics for evaluating policies designed to protect public health from environmental exposures, and identify their strengths and weaknesses with respect to their use in a general comparative risk and policy analysis framework.
[14] Environmental Metrics for Community Health Improvement — Integrating and Applying Environmental Data for Public Health. Environmental metrics provide valuable information, and when combined with other community health metrics can help identify problems, define priorities, inform policy development, compare different communities, assess health disparities, and monitor progress over time in reaching goals.
[15] Community Engagement: Reducing inequalities acting on environmental ... — Community Engagement can both empower vulnerable populations (so reducing inequalities) and identify the prior environmental issues to address. The aim was to search for public health programs using Community Engagement tools in healthy environment building. A systematic review was conducted searching on Scopus, MEDLINE and Cochrane databases.
[17] The Role of Communities in Promoting Health Equity — Qualitative and practice-based studies have suggested that certain attributes—including leadership, a backbone or an integrator organization, an infrastructure for collaboration, a common vision, shared language, a strategy for diversifying funding—are required for communities to succeed in health improvement efforts (Community Tool Box, 2016; FSG, 2011, 2013; Hayes et al., 2012; Prybil et al., 2014; Verbitsky-Savitz et al., 2016), and many of these are likely to apply to community efforts to organize and mobilize for health equity as well. Evidence from the sociology of social movements may be useful in this context, given the centrality of community organizing to community-driven change efforts (Skocpol et al., 2000), the nearly three-decades-long Healthy Communities movement (Norris and Pittman, 2000), and the relationship between mobilization for political participation and shared membership in a voluntary organization (Campbell, 2013) such as a community health coalition.
[18] PDF — The participation of universities, external organizations, and researchers also play a key role in the success and outcomes of citizen science and community projects (Gruber et al, 2015). With this, projects that focused on providing “information, training, social interaction, and feedback” from participants greatly increased the knowledge and skills gained by participants (Peter et al., 2021) Citizen science and community-based projects also have the potential to improve participants' attitudes toward science, resulting in a more positive outlook toward data collection. Improvements to community involvement in environmental initiatives and citizen science projects also involve the improvement and development of stronger relationships between participating individuals, and participating universities and organizations.
[44] History of US Presidential Assaults on Modern Environmental Health ... — In less than a year, the Trump administration has overturned or delayed dozens of regulations of, proposed massive budget cuts for, and reduced staf and enforcement at the Environ-mental Protection Agency (EPA) as part of a broad challenge to existing US environmental health policy. This approach is not without historical precedent. Comparison with similar initia-tives during the
[45] 21st-century environmental challenges and revitalizing EPA enforcement — For over 25 years, EPA has established national initiatives to focus its enforcement and compliance resources on the most serious environmental problems where federal leadership is needed.
[47] PDF — In one 2023 report, for example, we found that the EPA was not effectively communicating with states to prevent the registration, use, and resale of tampered vehicles in noncompliance with the Clean Air Act.118 In another 2023 report, we noted that minimizing potential contamination and communicating risks to the public from the planned decontamination efforts at the U.S. military’s Red Hill Facility in Hawaii would require significant coordination between EPA Region 9, the Hawaii Department of Health, and the U.S. Navy.119 Further, in reports about the Agency’s management of hazardous waste disposal under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, we noted that the EPA did not include state partners as recipients of two memorandums it sent to all EPA programs highlighting the importance of compliance with the Act’s statutory requirements at EPA laboratories.120 We have also found that difficulties arise in coregulation when state programs depend on the EPA’s implementation of the federal components of a regulatory program, such as the residential wood heater program, which we evaluated in February 2023.121 The EPA’s program distributed about $82 million in grants for states’ residential wood heater changeout programs from FY 2015 through 2021, but we found that the EPA does not provide reasonable assurance that wood heaters are properly tested and certified before reaching consumers.
[48] The Troubles of Pollution: Environmental Impact of Industrialization — Rapid industrialization led to severe pollution and exploitation of natural resources, causing long-term damage to the environment. Natural resources were exploited, industrial city air was polluted with thick smog, and the American waterways were heavily polluted with oil and debris. Several environmental disasters occurred as a result of rapid urbanization and the pollution that industrialization brought upon the Earth. One of the biggest environmental impacts of the Industrial Revolution was the number of pollutants it released into the environment. Waterways were polluted with oil and debris from improper industrial practices that led to disastrous events. Air pollution caused thick blankets of smog caused by factories to cover industrial cities. Environmental Disasters Caused by the Industrial Revolution
[49] Public Health During the Industrial Revolution - ThoughtCo — One important impact of the industrial revolution (such as the use of coal, iron, and steam) was rapid urbanization, as new and expanding industry caused villages and towns to swell, sometimes into vast cities.The Port of Liverpool, for example, rose from a population of a couple of thousand to many tens of thousands in the space of a century.
[50] History of Environmental Health - EHCON — History of Environmental Health – EHCON This led to the enactment of the 1848 Public Health Act, which was borne out of the desire to control these environmental conditions and abate them. In Nigeria, the development of environmental health has had a more challenging history. The present day environmental health services in Nigeria started in 1920s, when Dr. Isaac Ladipo Oluwole came back from Britain as a Public Health Physician. Since then the development of environmental health in Nigeria has continued to increase in terms of the number of practitioners trained and number of schools training the practitioners. The development of environmental health profession started in Britain in 1877, when the Royal Sanitary Institute was established.
[64] Community Engagement and Education for Eco-Conscious Health — The chapter underscores the pivotal role of community engagement and education in promoting eco-conscious health, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches that consider cultural, socioeconomic, and demographic factors.
[69] Understanding Environmental Regulations: A Comprehensive Overview — The evolution of environmental regulations is marked by several key legislative milestones that have shaped the landscape of public interest law. In the United States, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 stands as a pivotal law, establishing a framework for federal agencies to assess environmental impacts before proceeding with
[70] A Timeline of Major US Environmental Milestones — Executive Order 12898 on Environmental Justice. Focuses federal attention on the environmental and human health effects of federal actions on minority and low-income populations with the goal of achieving environmental protection for all communities. Administration: William J. Clinton
[71] Timeline of major U.S. environmental and occupational health regulation ... — Jump to content Create account Personal tools Toggle the table of contents Tools Find sources: "Timeline of major U.S. environmental and occupational health regulation" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR (February 2011) (Learn how and when to remove this message) 1918 – Migratory Bird Treaty Act creates protections for migratory birds. 1947 – Los Angeles Air Pollution Control District created; first air pollution agency in the US. 1970 – Reorganization Plan No. 3 created the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by Presidential Executive Order 1975 – Hazardous Materials Transportation Act 1980 – Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Created the Superfund program. 1994 – Executive Order 12898 on Environmental Justice Timeline of environmental events References[edit]
[73] The Intersection of Environmental Law and Public Health Challenges — The Intersection of Environmental Law and Public Health Environmental law encompasses regulations and statutes aimed at protecting the environment, while public health focuses on the well-being and health of populations. Their intersection highlights the critical impact environmental quality has on human health outcomes.
[81] World Health Organization repository of systematic reviews on ... — To facilitate the use of the mounting evidence on how human health is inextricably linked to the health of the planet and the urgent need for measures against the escalating triple planetary crisis, the WHO has developed a repository of systematic reviews on interventions in the area of environment, climate change and health (ECH). This commentary introduces the repository, describes its
[82] Frontiers in environmental cleanup: Recent advances in remediation of ... — Frontiers in environmental cleanup: Recent advances in remediation of emerging pollutants from soil and water - ScienceDirect Frontiers in environmental cleanup: Recent advances in remediation of emerging pollutants from soil and water Advancements in environmental cleanup use nanotech for efficient pollutant removal. Recent advancements in environmental remediation have significantly improved the treatment of soil and water pollution, yet the complexity and dispersion of emerging pollutants remain major challenges. In soil remediation, phytoremediation utilizes plants to absorb and immobilize pollutants while bioremediation employs microorganisms to degrade organic contaminants in a sustainable manner. For water remediation, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) such as photocatalysis and ozonation effectively degrade recalcitrant pollutants enhancing water quality. For all open access content, the relevant licensing terms apply.
[84] PDF — In local governments we share a vision that environmental protection and health are integrated and can be a reality for all of our citizens. When gaps arise, we take deliberate actions to reduce health disparities and safeguard our environment, especially for those most vulnerable to adverse environmental conditions.
[86] Smart Technologies in Environmental Monitoring: Enhancing Real-Time ... — Smart Technologies in Environmental Monitoring: Enhancing Real-Time Data for Health Management Integrating smart technologies into environmental monitoring represents a transformative approach to managing health risks associated with environmental changes. This chapter explores various intelligent technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), remote sensing, wearable health sensors, and data analytics, which provide real-time data crucial for enhancing health response systems. To overcome current smart technologies challenges in environmental health monitoring, there is a need for an integrated approach that brings together technology, health, and environmental management. Int J Environ Res Public Health 12(10):13118–13130. Int J Emerg Eng Technol 2(2):1–7.https://doi.org/10.57041/v3jj9f69 Smart Technologies in Environmental Monitoring: Enhancing Real-Time Data for Health Management.
[92] Advances and applications of machine learning and deep learning in ... — Machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) possess excellent advantages in data analysis (e.g., feature extraction, clustering, classification, regression, image recognition and prediction) and risk assessment and management in environmental ecology and health (EEH). ML and DL have been gradually integrated with multiple studies to offer predictive insights into EEH fields, e.g., key risk factors identification, remote sensing and forecasting pollution, biodiversity conservation promotion, chemical toxicity prediction, public health disease risks evaluation, compounds non-targeted analysis, and environmental engineering technology optimization. Machine learning has widely shown applicability and good predicting performance in fields such as healthcare and environmental ecology (Pruneski et al., 2023; An et al., 2023; Cui et al., 2023), while its application in psychology is still relatively limited.
[93] Artificial intelligence in environmental monitoring: Advancements ... — Artificial intelligence in environmental monitoring: Advancements, challenges, and future directions - ScienceDirect The application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in environmental monitoring offers accurate disaster forecasts, pollution source detection, and comprehensive air and water quality monitoring. This article provides an overview of the value of environmental monitoring, the challenges of conventional methods, and potential AI-based solutions. However, realizing the full potential of AI faces hurdles such as a shortage of specialized AI experts in the environmental sector and challenges related to data access, control, and privacy. Despite these challenges, the future of AI in environmental monitoring remains promising, with advancements in AI algorithms, data collection techniques, and computing power expected to further improve accuracy and efficiency in pollution monitoring and management.
[94] Advances in Multimodal Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Environmental ... — The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, and biomedical big data holds promise to transform understanding of human health and disease. Driven by the increasing availability and ability to generate, collect, and analyze environmental and biomedical data along with advanced computing power, AI and machine learning (ML) applications are rapidly developing in research and
[100] Community empowerment efforts in improving environmental health — Community empowerment is an important approach to improving health at various social, economic, and cultural levels. This approach emphasizes the active role of communities in managing and
[101] Community participation in health services development, implementation ... — Community participation in health services development, implementation, and evaluation: A systematic review of empowerment, health, community, and process outcomes Eligible studies included those that involved the community, service users, consumers, households, patients, public and their representatives in the development, implementation, and evaluation of health services, policy or interventions. To our knowledge, there are no reviews of the existing systematic approaches that examine outcomes of community involvement in health service planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation for a variety of diseases in high and upper-middle income countries. We included all studies that involved the community, service users, consumers, households, patients, public and their representatives in the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of health services, policy, or interventions.
[102] Grassroots Democracy in Public Health Initiatives — Grassroots Democracy in Public Health Initiatives - BiologyInsights Grassroots Democracy in Public Health Initiatives Explore how grassroots democracy shapes public health initiatives through local decision-making, community collaboration, and inclusive engagement strategies. Public health initiatives are most effective when they involve the communities they aim to serve. From vaccination campaigns to environmental advocacy, community-driven actions strengthen public health outcomes. Local Councils In Public Health Decision Making Local councils play a key role in shaping health policies by addressing their communities’ specific needs. A Lancet Public Health (2023) study found that municipal-led health initiatives in urban areas significantly reduced hospital admissions for preventable conditions like respiratory infections and cardiovascular diseases. This integration of technology ensures public health initiatives remain responsive to community needs.
[108] A precision environmental health approach to prevention of human ... — This has led to an appreciation of the need to capture data from multiple ‘omic layers using an integrated, data-driven approach to precisely assess how environmental exposures impact each individual, identify adverse or beneficial environmental factors, and develop precisely targeted interventions to improve health and prevent disease. Precision environmental health, by linking, for example, underlying individual risk factors and exposures contributing to disease pathogenesis with specific molecular (or other) endotypes, can provide an additional level of understanding of disease etiology, mechanisms of pathogenesis, and, potentially, new prevention and intervention strategies. Rather than an untargeted population-agnostic approach, precision environmental health approaches could discern who is at greatest risk of disease, for example, by establishing biomarkers that inform how specific exposures (or mixtures of exposures), will impact an individual based on their genome, epigenome, and microbiome.
[112] The triple planetary crisis: Global Foresight Report reveals global ... — The triple planetary crisis: Global Foresight Report reveals global shifts | UN News The triple planetary crisis: Global Foresight Report reveals global shifts  The triple planetary crisis: Global Foresight Report reveals global shifts Eight critical global shifts are accelerating a triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature loss, pollution and waste, according to the new Global Foresight Report produced by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Science Council (ISC) released on Monday. The rise of armed conflict and violence, alongside the human health and environmental impacts of forced displacement, are also identified in the report as key signals of change that must be anticipated.
[116] The Effects of Environmental Factors on General Human Health ... - PubMed — Results: We summarized recent research, identifying multiple associations between environmental factors such as air pollution, climate change, solar radiation, and meteorological conditions and their impact on various health outcomes, including respiratory, cardiovascular, metabolic and gastrointestinal, renal and urogenital, neurological and
[117] Mapping the impact of environmental pollutants on human health and ... — Mapping the impact of environmental pollutants on human health and environment: A systematic review and meta-analysis - ScienceDirect The main aim of this review article is to present a systematic review on “Mapping the Impact of Environmental Pollutants on Human Health and Environment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”. An environmental pollutant is an agent that adversely affects the natural environment, posing health risks to both humans and ecosystems (Alrumman et al., 2016; Thakur et al., 2021). Human health and the environment can be negatively affected by environmental pollutants (Jaishankar et al., 2014; Thakur et al., 2021). Heavy metal pollution in water sources has become a major worldwide environmental issue, posing a threat to aquatic ecosystems and human health.
[118] Environmental pollutants and their effects on human health — Additionally, throughout the work shift, pesticide workers experienced an increase in symptoms like coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, irritation of the throat, and dryness Some research has established the impact of environmental pesticides on childhood asthma, despite the lack of information on adult populations .A study in Tanzania found that people who were exposed to lambda-cyhalothrin(a pyrethroid Insecticide) had symptoms including runny nose, coughing, or throat irritation A study in Spain showed an association between exposure to organochlorine pesticides and recurring lower respiratory tract infections in infants A study demonstrates that exposure to insecticides like aerosols activates symptoms, falls in lung function, and may promote hyper airway responses in persons with asthma, although the mechanism underlying this effect has not been identified .Burning plastic bags causes long-term health issues, severe lung damage, and respiratory conditions like asthma and emphysema by emitting toxins into the atmosphere .
[119] Air quality, energy and health - World Health Organization (WHO) — The unit leads monitoring and reporting on global trends and changes in health outcomes associated with actions taken to address air pollution at the national, regional and global scales. Exposure & health impacts of air pollution For example, household activities such as cooking and heating with dirty technologies, and lighting with kerosene, emits a range of health harmful pollutants indoors, while activities such as high temperature combustion in vehicles, industries and power generating facilities contribute to ambient air pollution. Pollutants with the strongest evidence for public health concern include particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2). WHO global air quality guidelines: particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide
[120] Background - World Health Organization (WHO) — The combined effects from ambient (outdoor) air pollution and indoor air pollution cause approximately 7 million premature deaths every year, largely as a result of increased mortality from stroke, IHD, COPD, lung cancer and acute respiratory infections.
[125] Air quality, energy and health - World Health Organization (WHO) — WHO is a leading advocate for policies and programmes to reduce ambient and household air pollution to protect public health at the global, national and local levels. WHO's ongoing global leadership activities on air pollution and health focus on synthesizing the evidence-base for policy-making and tracking progress on the health impacts of air pollution.
[127] Air Pollution Solutions: How Effective is Public Policy in ... - Kaiterra — Air Pollution Solutions: How Effective is Public Policy in Improving Air Quality? Better Building Blog Insights and perspectives on healthy buildings and IAQ Technical Downloads Download technical documentation for Kaiterra products Support Knowledge base, how-to articles and troubleshooting Security Security measures we've put in place to keep your data safe Learning Center Educational resources crafted by air quality experts Events Upcoming and on-demand Kaiterra events Air Pollution Solutions: How Effective is Public Policy in Improving Air Quality? The Clean Air Act also gave legal tools to other governmental bodies, like the National Park Service, to deal with polluters in their respective jurisdictions, protecting the air quality in some of the country’s most crucial ecosystems. As with any regulation, enforcement of air pollution policies is a challenge.
[128] Cleaner Air is Within Reach by 2040: New Report | World Bank — Policies that achieve multiple goals--for instance, supporting energy independence or reducing emissions, together with measures to reduce air pollution--can be an efficient and cost-effective approach to this problem. The estimated economic benefits of integrated pollution management policies could be as high as $2.4 trillion by 2040.
[133] Comprehensive source identification of heavy metals in atmospheric ... — Megacities face significant pollution challenges, particularly the elevated levels of heavy metals (HMs) in particulate matter (PM). Despite the advent of interdisciplinary and advanced methods for HM source analysis, integrating and applying these approaches to identify HM sources in PM remains a hurdle.
[134] Unveiling sources, contamination, and eco-human health ... - Nature — As high-temperature fuel combustion processes of biomasses lead to the release of significant ... source attributions of particulate matter ... sources of heavy metals and metalloids in dust from
[135] Atmospheric emissions of particulate matter-bound heavy metals from ... — The dispersion of heavy metal sources is depicted across distinct regions, highlighting Asia, the European Union, and North America as primary emitters. IOS is the largest source of heavy metal emissions of those considered, accounting for 47.3 % of total global annual emissions, followed by EAF (31.2 %), BFI (10.1 %), and SZn (5.6 %) (Fig. 3 b
[136] Heavy Metals in Particulate Matter—Trends and Impacts on Environment — Heavy metals represent a class of pollutants detected at concentrations lower than 10 ppm in different matrices that are intensively monitored due to having a major impact on human health. Industrial activities including mining, agriculture, and transport, determine their presence in different environments. Corrosion phenomena of various installations, volcanic eruptions, or atmospheric
[137] Characteristics, Sources, Exposure, and Health Effects of Heavy Metals ... — Purpose of Review This review aims to explore the characteristics, sources, exposure risks, and health impacts of heavy metal (HM) pollution in atmospheric particulate matter (PM). The goal is to address how PM and HM pollution vary across regions, seasons, and particle sizes, as well as to assess the risks posed by exposure to these pollutants. To reflect recent advancements and emerging
[139] Heavy Metals in Atmospheric Particulate Matter: A Comprehensive ... — Second, the total amount of heavy metals in the environment is usually used as the main or only evaluation criteria in assessing the pollution conditions. However, it is generally recognized that the chemical speciation of a heavy metal probably determines its bioavailability and the potential risks it poses to the environment and to human health.
[157] Pollution and Health Metrics: Global, Regional and Country Analysis — Pollution remains the world's largest environmental threat to human health, responsible in 2017 for 15% of all deaths globally, and 275 million Disability-Adjusted Life Years. The 2019 report, which uses the most recent Global Burden of Disease data from the Institute of Health Metrics Evaluation, underscores the extent and severity of harm
[158] Global Risks Report 2025: Key Environmental Challenges and Their Impact — Global Risks Report 2025: Key Environmental Challenges and Their Impact – Decoding Biosphere Global Risks Report 2025: Key Environmental Challenges and Their Impact The report categorizes environmental risks as some of the most pressing global threats. The Global Risks Report 2025 serves as a wake-up call for urgent action against climate and environmental risks. Agriculture animals biodegradable Biodiversity carbon emissions Circular Economy climate-change climate change conservation E-waste Eco-friendly Ecosystem Electric Car Electric vehicles environment environmental impact Fashion Food Food security Gardening global warming greenhouse gases health Human health lifestyle Nature plastic Plastic Pollution plastic waste Recycle recycling Renewable energy Science Solar Energy Species sustainability sustainable living travel waste waste management Water water pollution weather wildlife Zero-waste
[159] Environmental health - World Health Organization (WHO) — Healthier environments could prevent almost one quarter of the global burden of disease. The COVID-19 pandemic is a further reminder of the delicate relationship between people and our planet. Clean air, stable climate, adequate water, sanitation and hygiene, safe use of chemicals, protection from radiation, healthy and safe workplaces, sound agricultural practices, health-supportive cities
[160] Environmental health - World Health Organization (WHO) — The ongoing environmental crisis is profoundly affecting health as climate change intensifies, biodiversity declines and pollution becomes ubiquitous. The health impacts of poor environmental conditions occur not only directly but also indirectly, through effects on food production, migration, economic instability and social inequalities.
[161] Community Engagement in Children'S Environmental Health Research — Across study designs, whether qualitative survey research, an observational epidemiology study, or a randomized intervention trial, understanding community interests, norms and values is necessary to describe attitudes and behaviors of specific population groups, build evidence of cause and effect between environmental exposures and health and/or that demonstrate the effectiveness of interventions to reduce risks. This has led to improved study designs and methods, higher recruitment and retention of study participants, and the production of valid and more meaningful results.14 Communities also benefit when technical assistance and educational resources are made available to organizations and residents; as well as when researchers work in partnership with the community to advocate for policies to reduce environmental risks and improve community health.
[162] Participatory Approaches to Environmental Health Management — Cláudio L, Gilmore J, Roy M, Brenner B (2018) Communicating environmental exposure results and health information in a community-based participatory research study. Madrigal D, Minkler M, Parra K, Mundo C, Gonzalez J, Jiménez R et al (2016) Improving Latino youths’ environmental health literacy and leadership skills through participatory research on chemical exposures in cosmetics. Cláudio L, Gilmore J, Roy M, Brenner B (2018) Communicating environmental exposure results and health information in a community-based participatory research study. Madrigal D, Minkler M, Parra K, Mundo C, Gonzalez J, Jiménez R et al (2016) Improving Latino youths’ environmental health literacy and leadership skills through participatory research on chemical exposures in cosmetics.
[163] Research on Community Resilience to Climate Change — These climate-driven events are impacting communities in many ways, impairing air and water quality, polluting land and increasing health risks of residents. As communities work to protect public health from more heat waves, wildfire smoke, flooding and other climate-related disasters, they need resources and information to better prepare for, withstand and recover from them. EPA is at the forefront of research to empower communities to become more resilient to climate change The research goals are to: Better identify communities most vulnerable to climate change impacts, including communities with environmental justice concerns. Develop science-based resources and approaches that communities can use to create and implement climate change adaptation and resilience strategies. The results can lead to more resilient communities that can respond to a changing environment and recover quickly from climate-related disasters.
[173] Socioeconomic status and health: the potential role of environmental ... — Among several viable explanations for the ubiquitous SES-health gradient is differential exposure to environmental risk. We document evidence of inverse relations between income and other indices of SES with environmental risk factors including hazardous wastes and other toxins, ambient and indoor air pollutants, water quality, ambient noise, residential crowding, housing quality, educational
[174] Socioeconomic Environment - Collaborative for Health & Environment — The list of risk factors associated with low socioeconomic status includes higher teen pregnancy rates, high school dropouts, trauma, and illness—all potentially occurring simultaneously, and each increasing the risk of poor health outcomes.10 People in lower income or class status are often relegated to living and working environments that have a higher risk for pollution, stress, injury and other risk factors for disease outcomes.19 A pattern of disease and premature death corresponds to the social and economic environment in which a person lives, known as the social determinants of health. Experiencing poverty directly undermines a person’s health as individuals are caught in a cycle that is self-reinforcing and difficult to break: less access to resources increases risk of illness and disability that further impacts household income and work status, and that ultimately diminishes a person’s quality of life.20
[191] Air pollution data portal - World Health Organization (WHO) — Air pollution data portal WHO monitors the exposure levels and health impacts (i.e. deaths, DALYs) of air pollution at the national, regional and global level from ambient (outdoor) and household air pollution. Air Pollution Data Portal Burden of disease 6.7 million deaths in 2019 from exposure to ambient and household air pollution Air pollution data Ambient air pollution data Household air pollution data In 2019, air pollution – both ambient and household – was the largest environmental risk to health, carrying responsibility for about one... ### Ambient air pollution: A global assessment of exposure and burden of disease This report presents a summary of methods and results of the latest WHO global assessment of ambient air pollution exposure and the resulting burden of...
[192] Global, regional, and national burden of household air pollution, 1990 ... — Despite a substantial reduction in the use of solid fuels for cooking worldwide, exposure to household air pollution (HAP) remains a leading global risk factor, contributing considerably to the burden of disease. ... A systematic review with a Burden of Proof meta-analysis of health effects of long-term ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5
[194] Chapter 4- Environmental Policy and Regulation Flashcards — Chapter 4- Environmental Policy and Regulation . Save. Flashcards; ... Describe key environmental health regulatory agencies at the ... and local levels • State four principles that guide environmental policy development • Discuss five major environmental laws that have been introduced within the past 10 years • Describe environmental
[195] PDF — Some Principles in Environmental Policy • Prevention as the tool of first resort (or cleanup as a tool of last resort) ... cost effectiveness and who pays (Polluter pays) Environmental Health Policy Operates at Multiple Levels •Global -e.g., climate pollution, persistent pollutants •National -e.g., air pollution, chemicals, pesticides
[197] PDF — discussion. Tis chapter covers four general approaches to environmental policy making: (1) command-and-control regulation; (2) market-based approaches; (3) hybrid and other approaches; and (4) voluntary programs. 1. While command-and-control regulation has been a commonly used approach to environmental regulation in the United
[199] Engaging Communities to Combat Health Disparities: Strategies for ... — Engaging Communities to Combat Health Disparities: Strategies for Effective Collaboration - Western Pennsylvania Healthcare News Engaging Communities to Combat Health Disparities: Strategies for Effective Collaboration Importance of Community Engagement in Public Health Community engagement plays a crucial role in addressing health disparities. One effective way to do this is through community programs that address health disparities. These actions include public health policies that promote access to health care for Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Tribal communities. These interventions can reduce health care disparities by focusing on the unique needs of each community. These collaborations help address health disparities by uniting different sectors, including community-based organizations, health systems, and public health departments. Collaboration is key to addressing health disparities through community programs.
[200] Addressing Health Disparities through Community Participation: A ... — Addressing Health Disparities through Community Participation: A Scoping Review of Co-Creation in Public Health - PMC Conclusions: Co-created public health actions offer the opportunity to reduce health inequity and promote social change; yet, further effort is needed to involve communities in the entire cycle of decision making. The scoping review was carried out to answer the research question: “What methods have been used in co-created public health actions that incorporate the principle of equity, how does community or citizen participation tend to be articulated, and what effects on health and equity have been observed?”. Participatory methodology, equity focus, and community participation in 31 co-created public health actions reviewed. 24.Israel B.A., Schulz A.J., Parker E.A., Becker A.B. Review of Community-Based Research: Assessing Partnership Approaches to Improve Public Health.
[202] Polluter pays principle - EnvJustice — Polluter pays principle The 'polluter pays' principle is an environmental policy principle which requires that the costs of pollution be borne by those who cause it. The 'polluter pays' principle is normally implemented through two different policy approaches: command-and-control and market-based. Command-and-control approaches include performance and technology standards, such as
[209] Barriers and enablers to implementing environmentally sustainable ... — From an ESG perspective, the healthcare sector is perceived as more adept on social aspects (e.g. reducing inequality in healthcare access by implementing innovative technology), but still lacking on the "E" and the "G" principles. 1,2 Nonetheless, given the mounting evidence for the impact of climate change on individual and population
[211] Rethinking Environmental Protection: Meeting the Challenges of a ... — Summary:From climate change to hydraulic fracturing, and from drinking water safety to wildfires, environmental challenges are changing. The United States has made substantial environmental protection progress based on media-specific and single pollutant risk-based frameworks. However, today's environmental problems are increasingly complex and new scientific approaches and tools are needed
[213] The Rio Declaration: A Framework for Sustainable Development — The Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, adopted at the 1992 Earth Summit, outlines 27 principles guiding sustainable development worldwide. It emphasizes the integration of environmental and developmental goals, the right to development, and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. The declaration highlights the need for international cooperation, public
[221] The Impact of Environmental Policies on Public Health — By regulating factors such as air and water quality, waste management, and chemical safety, these policies help mitigate environmental risks and promote healthier living conditions. Environmental policies aimed at improving air quality have a direct and positive effect on public health. Environmental policies that regulate the use and disposal of chemicals help prevent health risks related to toxic substances. Sustainable environmental policies support public health by promoting practices that protect natural resources and reduce environmental impact. Sustainable Agriculture: Regulations that promote sustainable farming practices, such as organic farming and reduced use of synthetic chemicals, support environmental health and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and chronic health conditions. Environmental policies significantly impact public health by regulating air and water quality, managing waste, controlling chemical exposure, and promoting sustainable practices.
[222] Next Generation Environmental Compliance and Enforcement — Faced with declining budgets, widespread enforcement problems, and an increasingly complex array of environmental challenges, regulators across the world are searching for new strategies to facilitate compliance with environmental laws.
[227] The Development and Evolution of the History of Environmental Law — The collective evolution of these legal frameworks established a foundation for the history of environmental law, guiding future developments in regulatory measures and public policy aimed at safeguarding the planet. Key legislation includes the National Environmental Policy Act in 1969, promoting environmental assessments, the Clean Air Act of 1970, aimed at regulating air quality, and the Clean Water Act of 1972, establishing water pollution control measures. Landmark environmental legislation has played a significant role in shaping modern environmental law, addressing critical issues such as air and water pollution, habitat protection, and public health. The agency plays a significant role in enforcing landmark legislation, such as the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act. Its regulatory authority allows it to set standards for air and water pollutants, thus contributing substantially to public health and environmental quality.
[228] Understanding Environmental Health Laws and Their Impact — By encouraging industries to comply with regulations, these laws ensure the preservation of ecosystems, ultimately benefiting future generations. In this context, environmental health laws are vital for promoting a balanced relationship between human activities and the natural environment. Historical Evolution of Environmental Health Laws
[230] Assessing the impact of international environmental agreements on ... — This study evaluates the influence of international environmental agreements (IEAs) on the formulation and implementation of national environmental policies across different regions. Through a comparative analysis, it examines how countries adapt their environmental policies in response to commitments under IEAs, highlighting the factors that contribute to both alignment and divergence between
[231] How environmental treaties contribute to global health governance — Even thought environmental protection and health promotion are clearly interconnected at the impact level, it remains unclear how global environmental governance interacts with global health governance at the institutional level. ... we conducted a content analysis of 2280 international environmental treaties. For each of these treaties, we
[236] PDF — Successful environmental education programs often keep a community focus, using local environments ... These are just a few examples of how environmental education programs are contributing to conservation ... in monitoring stream health, sharing data with researchers, and organizing outreach activities.
[237] How to Develop Environmental Education Programs for Community ... — How to Develop Environmental Education Programs for Community Engagement - HogoNext How to Develop Environmental Education Programs for Community Engagement This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to develop effective environmental education programs that resonate with your community and drive meaningful engagement. Example: Partner with a local university to recruit environmental science students as educators, providing them with training on effective teaching methods and community engagement strategies. Adequate funding and resources are essential for developing and sustaining a successful environmental education program. Developing effective environmental education programs requires careful planning, community engagement, and a commitment to continuous improvement. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create programs that inspire environmental literacy, empower community action, and foster a more sustainable future.
[239] How to Develop Environmental Education Programs for Community ... — This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to develop effective environmental education programs that resonate with your community and drive meaningful engagement. 1. Identify Community Needs and Interests. Before designing your program, it's essential to understand your audience.
[241] PDF — Through their Health Equity in Prevention (HEiP) initiative, which began in 2013, the Center for Prevention at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota awarded contracts to 13 organizations working to implement policy, systems, and environmental changes to support health and advance health equity.
[247] Communication about environmental health risks: A systematic review — Risk communication strategies that incorporate the needs of the target audience(s) with a multi-faceted delivery method are most effective at reaching the audience. Flow Diagram
[269] Future Directions in Environmental Health | SpringerLink — Knowledge is the key to the next step, which moves action from theoretical understanding to practice. The practice of prevention in environmental health retains the potential to eliminate hazards and, ultimately, save life years lost and even lives. Prevention is at the crux of creating the change needed to alter environmental health outcomes.
[270] A new environmental public health practice to manage current and future ... — The concept of Planetary Health focuses on analysing and addressing the impacts of human disruptions to Earth's natural systems on human health and all life on ... with particular attention to key areas for environmental health. Prevention and control of injuries: ... Supporting the education of future generations to move in this direction
[276] Community Engagement Alliance (CEAL): Leveraging the Power of ... — The articles also highlight the importance of meaningful community engagement in addressing the root causes of health disparities as we chart a future for more inclusive, equitable, and thriving communities.
[277] Community Engagement Strategies to Combat Climate Change — Community Engagement Strategies to Combat Climate Change - EKI Energy Services Limited Community Engagement Strategies to Combat Climate Change Community Engagement Strategies to Combat Climate Change While global initiatives and policies play a crucial role in mitigating climate change, community engagement is equally essential in this battle. In this article, we will explore the importance of community engagement in addressing climate change and outline effective strategies for fostering widespread participation. Ultimately, community engagement empowers individuals and communities to actively participate in climate action, making them vital agents of positive transformation in the global battle against climate change. Community engagement should not be limited to climate change mitigation but should also focus on building climate resilience.
[278] Five Lessons on Community-Driven Climate Action - RWJF — Through innovative, community-driven approaches, cities and communities are taking action to confront the health and equity impacts of climate change. Inclusive climate action by cities that engages community organizations, residents, young people, and local government is crucial to mitigating these risks. In 2021, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), with our partner C40 Cities, announced support for six U.S. cities working on initiatives at the intersection of health, climate change, and social equity. That’s why our grantees have adapted proven approaches tested in cities around the world to curb the health impacts of climate change, implementing global solutions within their communities. While projects in these cities did address challenges at the intersection of health, equity, and climate change, the focus was on pragmatic community solutions.
[279] Top 10 Environmental Health Innovations of 2025 — Environmental health innovations refer to new technologies, approaches, and practices that aim to improve the relationship between environmental quality and public health outcomes. These innovations encompass various sectors such as air quality monitoring, sustainable agriculture, and green transportation solutions that prioritize sustainable
[283] Advances and applications of machine learning and deep learning in ... — Machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) possess excellent advantages in data analysis (e.g., feature extraction, clustering, classification, regression, image recognition and prediction) and risk assessment and management in environmental ecology and health (EEH). ML and DL have been gradually integrated with multiple studies to offer predictive insights into EEH fields, e.g., key risk factors identification, remote sensing and forecasting pollution, biodiversity conservation promotion, chemical toxicity prediction, public health disease risks evaluation, compounds non-targeted analysis, and environmental engineering technology optimization. Machine learning has widely shown applicability and good predicting performance in fields such as healthcare and environmental ecology (Pruneski et al., 2023; An et al., 2023; Cui et al., 2023), while its application in psychology is still relatively limited.
[284] The Impact of Environmental Policies on Public Health — By regulating factors such as air and water quality, waste management, and chemical safety, these policies help mitigate environmental risks and promote healthier living conditions. Environmental policies aimed at improving air quality have a direct and positive effect on public health. Environmental policies that regulate the use and disposal of chemicals help prevent health risks related to toxic substances. Sustainable environmental policies support public health by promoting practices that protect natural resources and reduce environmental impact. Sustainable Agriculture: Regulations that promote sustainable farming practices, such as organic farming and reduced use of synthetic chemicals, support environmental health and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and chronic health conditions. Environmental policies significantly impact public health by regulating air and water quality, managing waste, controlling chemical exposure, and promoting sustainable practices.