The Environmental Health and Sanitation Department celebrated World Environmental Health Day by urging the building of resilient communities through disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. Experts emphasized the need for collective action to address environmental challenges that impact public health, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices and community engagement.
The Environmental Health and Sanitation Department (EHSD) of the Accra School of Hygiene at Korle-Bu recently marked this year’s World Environmental Health Day, emphasizing the importance of building resilient communities through effective disaster risk reduction, climate change mitigation, and adaptive strategies. Observed annually on September 26, this day serves as a global platform for addressing pressing environmental and health challenges while promoting actions that contribute to a healthier planet. Dr. Tsekpetse Akuamoah Kweku, an esteemed Environmental Health Expert at EHSD, articulated that resilience signifies a community’s capacity to prepare for, respond to, and recover from adverse situations. He highlighted the increasing severity of climate change and natural disasters, which pose unprecedented challenges to communities around the globe. Although natural disasters stem from Earth’s own processes, their impacts can be exacerbated by human activities. Mr. Emmanuel Kwadjo Gmanab, National President of the Ghana Environmental Health Officers Association (GEHOA), remarked that the observance of this day presents a valuable opportunity to engage individuals of all ages in activities that advocate for both environmental and human health. He underscored its aim to inform, educate, and empower communities on critical issues such as air and water pollution, hazardous waste, and the unsustainable use of resources that directly affect human health. Adding to the discussion, Mr. Smile Kobina Ametsi, Principal of the Accra School of Hygiene, stressed that human survival is intricately linked to environmental health. He underscored the necessity of promoting awareness regarding the detrimental effects of activities such as illegal mining, improper waste disposal, and deforestation, all of which contribute to the proliferation of diseases. He called for adherence to good environmental practices, such as afforestation initiatives, to combat global warming — noting that its impacts include the melting of polar ice and rising sea levels, potentially leading to health concerns associated with contaminated water sources. Finally, Mr. Michael Affrodofe, head of the Environmental Health and Sanitation Department at the Accra School of Hygiene, urged community members to engage collaboratively with government initiatives aimed at enhancing environmental safety. The event served as a clarion call for collective responsibility towards fostering environments that safeguard public health and mitigate climate-related adversities.
World Environmental Health Day, observed every September 26, aims to address the intersection of environmental conditions and public health challenges globally. With growing concerns surrounding climate change, natural disasters, and environmental degradation, it is essential to foster awareness and promote sustainable practices that enhance community resilience. Experts advocate for the engagement of individuals and communities in dialogue and actions that would mitigate environmental threats and their impacts on human health.
In summary, the commemoration of World Environmental Health Day by the Environmental Health and Sanitation Department highlights the urgent need for global awareness and action towards environmental preservation. Community resilience is crucial as it empowers individuals to prepare for and respond to the challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters. Collaboration among community members, health officials, and governmental bodies is essential to foster public health and maintain ecological balance. The messages conveyed by health experts serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of human and environmental health, calling for comprehensive action from all stakeholders.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
