Environmental Health

Environment health is an important aspect of health care that examines how the environment influences human health. India’s rapid industrialization, population growth, and urbanization have all contributed to the importance of the link between public health and the environment. The article examines the various aspects of environmental health, including its challenges, policies and importance.

1. Understanding Environmental Health

1.1 Definition

Environmental health is the branch of Public Health that focuses on the interaction between the environment, and the human health. This includes air and water pollutants, climate change, noise pollution, hazardous waste and other factors.

1.2 Importance

A population’s health is strongly linked to their environment. Unhealthy environmental conditions may lead to respiratory illnesses, vector-borne disease, or chronic long-term illness.

2. Environmental Health Issues in India

Air pollution 2.1

• The following is a brief overview of the OverviewIndia is one the most polluted country in the world. The air quality in urban areas is often above the acceptable levels for pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrous oxide, and PM2.5.

• Health ImpactAccording to the Global Burden of Disease Study, air pollution causes respiratory disease, cardiovascular problems and an increased death rate. The Global Burden of Disease Study states that air pollution is responsible for over 1.2 millions deaths per year in India.

• Case StudyDelhi suffered a severe air-quality crisis in 2019, where the air quality index reached hazardous levels. This led to widespread health crises.

Water Quality

• The following is a brief overview of the OverviewIn many areas of India, water is contaminated by industrial wastes, sewage and runoff from agriculture.

• Health ImpactDrinking water that is unsafe can lead to digestive diseases such as cholera and dysentery. World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 37 million Indians are affected by waterborne disease every year.

• Case StudyThe Ganga river and the Yamuna have been heavily polluted by industrial and household wastes, causing health problems in nearby areas.

2.3 Waste Management

• The following is a brief overview of the OverviewWaste generation is on the rise, thanks to rapid urbanization. Ineffective solid waste disposal poses grave environmental and health hazards.

• Health ImpactThe poor management of waste is associated with a variety of health issues, such as vector-borne illnesses like malaria and dengue.

• Case StudyMumbai’s dumping on the Mithi River of waste has caused stagnant waters, which breed mosquitoes. This in turn increases the number of illnesses.

2.4 Noise Pollution

• The following is a brief overview of the OverviewUrban stress and problems with health are caused by noise pollution.

• Health ImpactNoise pollution can cause sleep disruptions, impaired hearing, and an increase in stress.

• Case StudyIn many cities of India, such as Kolkata, noise levels have exceeded permissible limit, resulting in health warnings.

Climate Change

• The following is a brief overview of the OverviewIndia’s health is at risk from climate change. Rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall and rising sea level are all contributing factors.

• Health ImpactClimate Change – Exacerbating existing Health Issues, including Malnutrition, Vector-Borne Diseases, Heat-Related Illnesses, etc.

• Case StudyA severe heatwave that occurred in Andhra Pradesh, India, caused many heat-related deaths, which highlights the effect of climate change.

3. Policy and intervention of the Government

National Health Policy

• In the National Health Policy 2017, there is a focus on strengthening healthcare systems and dealing with environmental health issues.

3.2 Swachh Bharat Abhiyan

• This sanitation campaign was launched in 2014. It aims at improving waste management, sanitation, and reducing the health risks that are associated with bad hygiene.

Air Quality Management

• National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aims at reducing air pollution of 20-30% through collaboration between states and other stakeholders by 2024.

Water Quality Initiatives

• The Namami Gange Programme, for example, aims to improve the quality of the rivers and the Ganga in particular by reducing pollution.

Climate Action

• India adopted several national policies in accordance with the Paris Agreement, to combat climate changes and protect public healthcare. This includes the National Action Plan on Climate Change.

4. The role of community and NGOs

4.1 Programs of Education and Awareness

• The role of NGOs in raising public awareness on environmental issues is vital. Organisations such as the Centre for Science and Environment conduct research and advocate for sustainable practices.

Grassroots Movements

• Local initiatives such as waste segregation and rainwater harvesting are good examples of how to improve the environment.

4.3 Co-operation with the Government

• Many NGOs work with governments to develop health programs and offer expertise on environmental health assessment.

5. Case Studies of Successful Environmental Health Initiatives

Air Quality Monitoring

• Delhi Pollution Control Committee launched its air quality monitoring system in order to raise awareness about emissions and enforce the regulations.

5.2 Waste Management in Pune

• Pune’s Solid Waste Management Model provides an excellent example of how to effectively segregate and dispose waste, while involving the community. This reduces health risks that are associated with waste.

Water Purification Initiatives

• The "Water ATMs" program in several states provides clean drinking water at affordable prices, reducing reliance on unsafe water sources.

6. Environmental Health and Technology

6.1 Monitoring

• Real-time air and surface water monitoring using satellite images and IoT to allow for early intervention.

Water Treatment Technologies

• Solar water purifiers, biosand filters and other innovations in water purification can improve access to clean drinking water.

Public Health Data Analysis

• Machine learning and big data can identify patterns of environmental issues that lead to better public health.

7. You can also read our conclusion.

India’s intricate link between public and environmental health requires urgent attention from all parties, especially policymakers and health professionals. In a country that is undergoing rapid urbanization, it’s imperative to adopt policies and practices which will mitigate the environmental health risk.

FAQ

FAQ 1: Environmental health – What is it?

AnswerIt is an area of public health which studies interactions between the environment and human health. Issues such as water and air quality are addressed.

Q2: How is air pollution affecting health in India

AnswerThe air pollution causes respiratory conditions, cardiovascular problems, and an increase in mortality. The air pollution is believed to be responsible for over 1.2million deaths per year.

FAQ 3: Which measures has India taken to improve the water quality of its rivers and lakes?

AnswerIn order to improve the health of rivers, India’s government launched several initiatives including Namami Gange Programme. These efforts are aimed at reducing pollution and purifying water.

FAQ #4: What is the role of NGOs in environmental health and safety?

AnswerThe role of NGOs is vital in promoting environmental health, working with communities to implement initiatives and cooperating with government.

FAQ 5: What can be done to improve the environment?

AnswerTechnology allows for the creation of real-time systems to monitor air quality and water purity, as well as methods that purify water. It can also be used in analyzing public health data and forming effective policies.