The Environmental Health and Sanitation Department of the Accra School of Hygiene commemorated World Environmental Health Day, emphasizing the necessity for resilient communities through disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation strategies. Experts highlighted the importance of addressing pressing environmental issues and encouraging sustainable practices to promote public health and environmental well-being.
The Environmental Health and Sanitation Department affiliated with the Accra School of Hygiene, Korle-Bu, recently commemorated World Environmental Health Day with a significant emphasis on establishing resilient communities through enhanced disaster risk reduction and effective strategies for climate change mitigation and adaptation. This annual observance, held on September 26, serves as a vital global platform for addressing critical environmental and health challenges while fostering initiatives aimed at promoting a healthier planet. Dr. Tsekpetse Akuamoah Kweku, an esteemed Environmental Health Expert from the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources, articulated that resilience encompasses the capacity of communities to prepare for, respond to, and recover from adverse occurrences. He pointed out the growing severity of climate change and natural disasters, which present unprecedented hurdles for communities internationally. Despite being natural phenomena, these disasters can be aggravated by human actions. In a synchronizing statement, Mr. Emmanuel Kwadjo Gmanab, the National President of the Ghana Environmental Health Officers Association (GEHOA), highlighted that World Environmental Health Day presents a commendable occasion for engaging individuals of all demographics in activities that champion both environmental and human health. He emphasized the day’s objective to inform, educate, and empower communities worldwide regarding air and water pollution, hazardous waste, and the unsustainable use of resources that directly impact human well-being. Additionally, Mr. Smile Kobina Ametsi, Principal of the Accra School of Hygiene, voiced the necessity for collective awareness regarding human dependence on the environment. He intimated the grave repercussions of negative environmental practices such as illegal mining, improper waste disposal, and deforestation, which contribute to the proliferation of diseases. Furthermore, he asserted the importance of embracing sustainable practices such as afforestation to mitigate global warming, highlighting its ramifications such as melting polar ice caps, rising sea levels, and health hazards associated with contaminated water sources. Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Michael Affrodofe, head of the Environmental Health and Sanitation Department, underscored the imperative for individuals to collaborate with governmental entities in the quest for environmental preservation, affirming that collective action is essential for ensuring a safe environment.
World Environmental Health Day, marked annually on September 26, is dedicated to promoting awareness and urging action towards pressing environmental health issues that affect communities globally. The day serves as a call to address the health impacts of environmental challenges and to encourage practices that foster a healthier ecosystem. Experts emphasize the importance of resilience in communities, enabling them to respond effectively to increasing disasters and the adverse effects of climate change. The celebration fosters dialogue and collaboration across various sectors, ensuring everyone’s contribution toward a sustainable environment and improved public health.
In summary, the commemoration of World Environmental Health Day underlined the importance of community resilience in the face of escalating environmental challenges, driven by climate change and human activities. Experts called for collective action to promote sustainable practices and heightened awareness regarding the impacts of environmental degradation on human health. By fostering education and encouraging individuals and communities to take responsibility for environmental stewardship, there is a greater potential for creating healthier and more sustainable environments.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
