26/09/2025
AN OVERVIEW OF WORLD ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DAY
FIFTEEN YEARS OF GLOBAL OBSERVANCE
2011 TO 2025
A PAPER PRESENTATION BY SANITARIAN JEFFREY OBADAYA (LHNR) NATIONAL PUBLICITY SECRETARY ON THE OCCASION OF THE 2025 WORLD ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DAY CELEBRATION
INTRODUCTION
Environmental Health is the branch of public health that focuses on the health interrelationships between people and their environments, including the assessment and control of those environmental factors that can potentially affect health. Environmental Health target is on the prevention of disease and creation of health-supportive environment that addresses all the physical, chemical, biological and related factors external to a person, and impacting behaviours. In that regard, It is concerned with the interaction of the Environment which encompasses everything external to man, including the physical, natural, social and behavioural environments, with Health; a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing, and not merely the absence of disease, illness or infirmity. It covers aspects of human health - including quality of life that are determined by physical, chemical, biological, social and psychosocial factors in the environment. The central point is that the health of the human race is irrevocably intertwined with the health of the environment. Good health depends on clean air, a stable climate, a preserved natural environment, as well as access to adequate water, sanitation and hygiene. It also requires protection from harmful radiation, unsafe chemical management and unhealthy working conditions.
Environmental health promotes human health and well-being by fostering a safe and healthful environment, both built and natural, including work in areas such as climate change mitigation, hazardous materials management, land use planning, radiological health, food safety, toxic chemical exposure, recreational water illness prevention, safe drinking water, and more. For instance, when people are exposed to polluted air and lead in their drinking water, they are most likely to develop serious conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, cancer and dementia.
The profession of Environmental health was created based on need and exigencies rather than desire or sentiments. This was the case in 1831 in Britain when the first set of Sanitarians were put together to control the worst cholera outbreak in that country. By 1877, environmental health had amply grown into a profession with the establishment of the Royal Sanitary Institute in Britain. Ever since, Environmental health professionals have continued to work as epidemiologists, toxicologists, sanitarians, industrial hygienists, and as subject matter specialists.
Environmental health issues are majorly classified into biological, chemical, and physical, even though the categories are not mutually exclusive, and hazards can overlap or interact with each other.
Biological Hazards involve living organisms or their products that can cause disease or negatively impact health. Examples include infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and other pathogens.
Chemical Hazards involve exposure to harmful chemicals, such as pesticides, heavy metals, industrial chemicals, and air pollutants.
Physical Hazards include non-biological factors that can harm health, such as radiation, noise, extreme temperatures, natural disasters, and accidents.
The above classification according to a study from ScienceDirect.com, helps in understanding the various ways the environment can affect human health and guide efforts to mitigate risks and promote well-being.
Environmental Health; which also has other terms used to refer to the discipline, such as environmental public health and environmental health and protection, has the following components:
• waste management;
• food control and hygiene;
• pest and vector control;
• environmental health control of housing and sanitation;
• epidemiological investigation and control;
• air quality management;
• occupational health and safety;
• water resources management and sanitation.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
World Environmental Health Day was established by the International Federation of Environmental Health (IFEH) during an IFEH summit in Indonesia in 2011, where 26th September of that same year was declared as the foundational “World Environmental Health Day,” and from that time on, it has been a yearly observance held 26th September to raise awareness about the crucial link between environmental health and human well-being. The IFEH is a global organization that was established in 1986 as a company limited by guarantee, with registration number 02026062, and based in London - England, representing environmental health professionals from over 70 countries, with Its full members as national associations of environmental health professionals throughout the world, thereby providing a focal point for national organisations of practitioners, whose concern is the care of the environment in the interests of the public.
The IFEH promotes best practices in environmental health, while advocating for policies that protect the environment and human health. It is dedicated to disseminating knowledge concerning environmental health practices and regulations, and promoting co-operation between countries where environmental health issues are transboundary.
World Environmental Health Day is primarily to highlight the interconnectedness between human health and the environment, and to promote actions that improve they both, as well as to promote the importance of environmental health professionals and their role in addressing global environmental challenges and implementing Sustainable Development Goals.
PURPOSE AND SIGNIFICANCE
Purpose
• Raise Awareness:
To inform the public about the threats posed by pollution, climate change, poor sanitation and other environmental factors to human health.
• Promote Action:
To encourage individuals, organizations, and governments to adopt sustainable practices and policies to improve environmental conditions.
• Recognize Professionals:
To acknowledge the efforts and dedication of environmental health professionals and educators worldwide.
• Promoting improvements:
The day encourages efforts to improve the quality of the natural environment, including air, water, food, and living spaces.
• Foster Collaboration:
To bring together various stakeholders to work together on improving environmental health and achieving sustainable development goals.
Significance
• Healthier Planet and People:
By addressing environmental challenges, the day contributes to the long-term well-being of both people and the planet.
• Proactive Approach to Health:
It emphasizes the preventive aspects of environmental health, highlighting how clean air, water, and food are essential for preventing disease.
• Support for Sustainable Development:
The day aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, reinforcing the importance of a healthy environment for achieving these goals.
• Addressing Global Threats:
It serves as a crucial opportunity to focus on pressing environmental issues, such as climate change, which pose significant risks to global public health.
ANNUAL THEMES
The IFEH provides direction for World Environmental Health Day every year by setting a unique theme. From inception, a specific theme has always been chosen yearly to focus on a particular aspect of environmental health, addressing modern global challenges and promoting sustainable practices.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2011 was "Strengthening Environmental Health Systems for the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals." This theme emphasized the crucial role of environmental health in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and highlighted the need for robust systems to protect public health and the environment.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2012 was "Building for the future." This broad theme was to encourage global participants to address their local environmental health issues and think about building healthy communities for the future.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day 2013 was "Emerging Environmental Health Risks & Challenges for Tomorrow". This broad theme was chosen to allow for local and global interpretations, and address various issues related to environmental health. Member organizations, academic institutions, and governments were encouraged to organize events and initiatives around climate change, sustainable development, food security, and disaster management, being topics under the theme.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2014 was "Addressing Environmental Health Inequalities". This theme focused on the impact of environmental factors on different populations and the disparities in health outcomes related to environmental hazards.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2015 was "Children are our future - Let's protect their environment and health.". This theme highlighted the vulnerability of children to environmental hazards and emphasized the importance of safeguarding their health by protecting their environment.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2016 was "To***co Control: A response to the global to***co pandemic." This theme focused on the impact of to***co use on environmental health and the need for control measures to mitigate its effects.
The theme of World Environmental Health Day 2017 was "Indoor and outdoor air quality." This theme was chosen to highlight the impact of air pollution on public health and to encourage action to improve air quality both indoors and outdoors.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2018 was "Sustainable food production and healthy food systems". This theme emphasized the importance of safe and sustainable food production to protect both public health and the environment. The day also highlighted the need to strengthen food safety systems in the face of globalization and emerging threats, encouraging discussions and initiatives around reducing food waste, efficient use of natural resources, and addressing food safety challenges in the context of globalized food supply chains.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2019 was "Climate change challenges, time for global Environmental Health to act in unison." This theme highlighted the urgent need for environmental health practitioners to address the impacts of climate change on public health and to work together to implement adaptation strategies.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2020 was "Environmental Health, a Key Public Health Intervention in Disease Pandemic Prevention". This theme highlighted the crucial role of environmental health in preventing and mitigating the spread of pandemics like COVID-19, emphasizing the work of environmental health practitioners in disease prevention and response.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2021 was "Prioritizing Environmental Health for healthier communities in global recovery." This theme emphasized the crucial role of environmental health in supporting community well-being, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for a global recovery.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2022 was "Strengthening Environmental Health Systems for the Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)." This theme emphasized the importance of robust environmental health systems in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2023 was "Global Environmental Public Health: Standing Up to Protect Everyone's Health Each and Every Day". This theme emphasized the critical role of environmental health in public health and the need to address environmental factors that impact human well-being.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2024 was "Environmental Health: Creating Resilient Communities through Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation." This theme highlighted the critical role of environmental health in building communities that can withstand and recover from the impacts of climate change and disasters. It emphasized the need for disaster risk reduction strategies and climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts to protect public health.
The theme for World Environmental Health Day in 2025 is "Clean Air, Healthy People." This theme emphasizes the crucial link between clean air and overall well-being, highlighting the impact of air pollution and climate change on human health. It is particularly relevant, given the increasing scientific evidence of the detrimental effects of air pollution on various aspects of human health, including respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular diseases.
CLUSTER OF THEMES SINCE INCEPTION:
• 2011-2015:
The International Federation of Environmental Health (IFEH) focused on the broad concept of environmental health, emphasizing the importance of understanding environmental risks and their effects on human health.
• 2016-2020:
The themes evolved to address specific environmental challenges, such as pollution, climate change, and the need for sustainable practices to protect public health.
• 2021-2025:
The themes have highlighted the interconnectedness of global environmental public health, emphasizing the shared responsibility to address environmental issues and their impact on everyone's health.
• Recurring Themes:
Pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, sustainable practices, and the need for resilient communities are recurring themes, highlighting the long-term impact of environmental factors on human health.
GLOBAL PARTICIPATION
World Environmental Health Day is sponsored by the International Federation of Environmental Health (IFEH) to encourage global participation in raising awareness and taking action on environmental health issues. Events such as lectures, training sessions, conferences, and community fairs are held to educate the public on specific areas of environmental health. Individuals are encouraged to participate by learning about environmental health, adopting sustainable practices, participating in community events, and advocating for policies that promote a healthier environment. Businesses and organizations are also required to play a role by promoting sustainable practices within their operations and supporting initiatives that address environmental health challenges.
LINK TO THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGs)
The day's activities and initiatives which are marked by various events, such as seminars, workshops, and health campaigns, to encourage collaboration and action towards a healthier environment, are often aligned with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing the role of environmental health in achieving a sustainable future.
Environmental health directly contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), most notably SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). It also plays a significant role in achieving other goals like SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
Details::
• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being:
Environmental health directly addresses the reduction of deaths and illnesses caused by pollution (air, water, and soil), hazardous chemicals, and other environmental factors. This includes targets related to reducing mortality from environmental pollution, ensuring access to clean water and sanitation, and promoting safe management of chemicals and waste.
• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation:
This goal is intrinsically linked to environmental health, focusing on ensuring access to safe and affordable drinking water and sanitation for all. Targets include improving water quality, reducing water pollution, and promoting water-use efficiency.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities:
Environmental health is crucial for creating healthy and sustainable urban environments. This involves addressing air and water pollution in cities, improving waste management, and ensuring access to green spaces and clean public transportation.
• SDG 13: Climate Action:
Environmental health interventions, such as promoting renewable energy and sustainable transportation, can contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation, which are key aspects of SDG 13.
• SDG 14 & 15: Life Below Water and Life on Land:
Protecting ecosystems and biodiversity is essential for environmental health and well-being. This includes efforts to reduce pollution in oceans and freshwater sources (SDG 14) and to protect and restore terrestrial ecosystems (SDG 15).
In essence, a healthy environment is a fundamental prerequisite for achieving many of the SDGs, and efforts to improve environmental health directly contribute to progress across multiple goals.
RELEVANCE TO THE NIGERIAN CONTEXT
Environmental Health became a full-fledged profession in Nigeria by Act No 11 of 2002 which enabled the establishment of its Regulatory Council, initially known as Environmental Health Officers Regulation Council of Nigeria (EHORECON), but later changed in 2022 to Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON) by amendment of the Establishment Act, because of its critical importance in Nigeria due to its impact on public health, economic development, and overall quality of life.
A healthy environment reduces disease burden, prevents premature deaths, and contributes to a more productive population. Conversely, poor environmental health in Nigeria, characterized by issues like insufficient engagement of professional manpower, inadequate sanitation, air and water pollution, and improper waste management, has led to significant health problems and economic losses.
Key aspects of environmental health's significance in Nigeria:
• Disease Prevention and Control:
Environmental factors are major contributors to various diseases in Nigeria, including malaria, diarrhoea, respiratory infections, and other communicable diseases. A healthy environment, with proper sanitation and clean water, can significantly reduce the incidence and prevalence of these diseases.
• Economic Development:
A healthy population is a productive population. Environmental health issues like air and water pollution can lead to worker absenteeism, decreased productivity, and increased healthcare costs, impacting economic growth. Furthermore, a clean environment can support tourism and other economic activities.
• Reduced Mortality and Morbidity:
Addressing environmental health problems can prevent millions of deaths and reduce the burden of illness globally. In Nigeria, improving environmental health conditions, particularly in areas like sanitation and air quality, can have a direct impact on reducing mortality rates, especially among vulnerable populations like children.
• Sustainable Development:
Environmental health is a crucial component of sustainable development. By promoting practices that protect the environment, Nigeria can ensure that economic growth does not come at the cost of public health and environmental degradation.
• Climate Change Mitigation:
Environmental health issues like deforestation and pollution contribute to climate change. Addressing these issues through sustainable environmental practices can help Nigeria mitigate the impacts of climate change, which are already affecting the country.
Specific challenges in Nigeria's environmental health context:
• Inadequate Sanitation and Waste Management:
Poor sanitation and waste management practices lead to water contamination, spread of diseases, and environmental pollution.
• Air Pollution:
Vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and open burning of waste contribute to air pollution, which can cause respiratory illnesses and other health problems.
• Water Pollution:
Industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and improper sewage disposal contaminate water sources, affecting human health and ecosystems.
• Climate Change Impacts:
Nigeria is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events, droughts, and floods, which can exacerbate environmental health problems.
• Urbanization and Population Growth:
Rapid urbanization and population growth have strained environmental resources, leading to increased pollution and pressure on sanitation and waste management systems.
Addressing these challenges requires:
• Strengthened Environmental Regulations and Enforcement:
Implementing and enforcing environmental regulations to control pollution and promote sustainable practices.
• Investment in Sanitation and Waste Management Infrastructure:
Improving sanitation and waste management systems to reduce pollution and disease transmission.
• Promoting Public Awareness and Education:
Raising public awareness about the importance of environmental health and promoting responsible environmental behaviour.
• Capacity Building and Training:
Investing in training and capacity building for environmental health professionals.
• Fostering Collaboration and Partnerships:
Encouraging collaboration between government agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector.
CALL TO ACTION
An Environmental Health Action Plan (EHAP) has a number of defining features:
(a) defining the objectives to be attained,
(b) providing a situation report giving the current status of environmental health within a defined area and giving the starting point of the plan,
(c) providing a judgement of the significance.
Planning involves the assessment and profiling of environmental concerns and design of strategic interventions to address concerns.
Actions for a healthy planet
• Save energy at home, knowing that much of our electricity and heat are powered by coal, oil and gas.
• Conserve water.
• Change your home's source of energy to clean energy.
• Hike, bike or ply by public transport.
• Switch to an electric vehicle.
• Consider your travel.
• Choose to reduce, reuse, repair and recycle properly.
• Consider a more plant-based diet.
• Shop local whenever possible.
• Eat more vegetables.
• Throw away less food.
• Use your purchasing power to help the planet.
• Reduce your carbon footprint.
• Try composting.
• Promote laws and policies for the reduction of different types of pollution to help prevent many serious health problems and deaths.
CONCLUSION
World Environmental Health Day is not just to raise awareness of the profession and the health threats that need to be addressed, but also an avenue for organizations around the globe to join forces and host events just like this, that encourage environmental health literacy. Such events serve to educate communities and partners on what the field is all about, raise awareness of the biggest risks and issues in environmental health as of today, and spark discussion on the steps people can take to both protect the environment and ensure their safety from its threats.
LONG LIVE IFEH
LONG LIVE EHOAN
LONG LIVE SANITARIANS
