Introduction to Environmental Health

Abstract

Environmental health (EH) is a diverse science that has as its primary objective the care of the environment, thus ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all. In essence, EH aims to prevent unhealthy practices, situations or circumstances that may cause harm or lead to illness in any person who may be surrounded by, in contact with, or in the vicinity of any harmful element, whether microbiological, physical or chemical. These harmful elements may be found in the air, in our food, in our homes, in the water supply, and in the industrial, recreation and working environments. While it is the duty of every person to care about their immediate environment and live accordingly, EH is essentially the responsibility of local and regional government. However, all tiers of government can be involved in the management of the environment, be it the air, the soil, water or food.

The following chapters will look at each of these elements. Chapter 23 covers the areas of food and water, while Chapter 24 discusses housing, air quality and waste management.