As part of activities to mark 2024 World Environmental Health Day, Environmental Health Officers,Oshimili South Local Government, organized a workshop for regulated premises owners and workers in the Local Government.
The workshop with a team, Environmental Health: Creating Resilience Communities Through Disaster Risk Reduction And Climate Change Mitigation And Adaptation was presented by Sanitarian,Eze Animam.
He said Environmental Health is critical field that examines the interplay between the environment and human health.
Sanitarian Animam explained that Environmental Health and resilience are critical areas of study and practice aimed at understanding and improving how Environmental factors affect human health and how Communities can adapt to and recover from Environmental challenges.
He said exposure to pollutants can lead to respiratory diseases,cardiacvascular problems, and exacerbation of preexisting health condition.
The lecturer pointed out that access to green spaces and clean air can improve mental health and reduce the incidence of chronic diseases.
He said there was need for combined efforts across public health, Environmental science, and urban planning to develop comprehensive strategies for solutions.
Sanitarian Animam attributed causes of climate change to human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels for energy, deforestation, and individual process, are the primary contributors to increased greenhouse gas concentrations.
He said there was need to identify and analyze potential hazards and vulnerabilities to understand the risk faced by a community,as well develop and implement plans and procedures to respond effectively to disasters when they occur.
The lecturer revealed that building resilient Communities required a comprehensive approach that encompasses risk awareness, preparedness, infrastructure, social capital, and economic stability, adding that integrating disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation strategies ensures that communities are better equipped to handle both immediate and long term challenges with effective governance supportive policies.
Sanitarian Animam said addressing the health impacts of climate change and disasters required a multifaceted approach that includes preparedness, public health interventions, and strengthening healthcare system,by implementing effective strategies and fostering resilience, communities can better protect and promote public health in the face of climate related challenges.
He noted that Environmental policies and regulations play a crucial role in managing climate change and ensuring sustainable development, while understanding the key policies and their at international, national, and local levels is essential for effective Environmental governance.
In her contribution, the state Secretary, Environmental Health Officers Association, Comrade.Esther Edafienene, stressed the need for Environmental Health Officers to put in their best no matter the faced challenges.
She pointed out some challenges facing Environmental Health Officers to include shortage of man power and vehicles to do the job.
Comrade Edafienene appealed to the governments to look into their challenges in order to enhance the performance of the Health Officers.
She commended those attended the program and appealed to them to pass the message gained to their immediate communities.
Highlights of the occasion were presentation of awards to members and non members.
BY GILBERT OLIE.
