Commemoration of World Environmental Health Day by EHSD in Ghana
The Environmental Health and Sanitation Department of the Accra School of Hygiene commemorated World Environmental Health Day with a focus on building resilient communities through disaster risk reduction and climate change strategies. Experts emphasized the urgency of addressing environmental health issues through community engagement and responsible practices to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Tema, Ghana – The Environmental Health and Sanitation Department (EHSD) of the Accra School of Hygiene, located in Korle-Bu, observed this year’s World Environmental Health Day by advocating for the establishment of resilient communities through strategies that address disaster risk reduction, climate change mitigation, and adaptation. This meaningful event, commemorated annually on September 26, serves as a global forum to discuss urgent environmental and health challenges while promoting actions that contribute to a healthier planet. Dr. Tsekpetse Akuamoah Kweku, an esteemed Environmental Health Expert at the EHSD of the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources, articulated that resilience encompasses the capacity of communities to prepare for, respond to, and recuperate from adverse events. He emphasized the increasing intensity of climate change and natural disasters, which pose unprecedented challenges that communities around the world must confront. Furthermore, he noted that while natural disasters arise from natural processes, human activities can exacerbate their effects, leading to substantial damage to human life, property, and the environment. Mr. Emmanuel Kwadjo Gmanab, the National President of the Ghana Environmental Health Officers Association (GEHOA), remarked that the observance of this day presents an invaluable opportunity to engage individuals of all ages in initiatives that promote both environmental and human health. He underscored the objective of the day to inform, educate, and empower communities globally about pressing matters such as air and water pollution, hazardous waste management, and unsustainable resource usage, all of which directly influence human health. Mr. Smile Kobina Ametsi, Principal of the Accra School of Hygiene, highlighted the critical relationship between humans and their environment, asserting that it is essential for all to recognize the impact of their actions on ecological well-being. He warned that detrimental practices such as illegal mining, improper waste disposal, and deforestation contribute to the transmission of various diseases. To counter these issues, he called for the implementation of effective environmental practices such as afforestation, which can mitigate global warming effects, including the melting of polar ice caps and rising sea levels. Mr. Michael Affrodofe, the head of the EHSD at the Accra School of Hygiene, emphasized the necessity for individuals to collaborate with governmental efforts in maintaining environmental safety.
World Environmental Health Day is observed annually to promote awareness of environmental health challenges and encourage actions that support public health. The theme of resilience aims to educate communities on strategies to withstand and adapt to the impacts of climate change and natural disasters. Increasing attention on the interrelationship between environmental factors and human health accentuates the importance of responsibility in environmental stewardship.
In summary, the celebration of World Environmental Health Day serves as a critical reminder of the importance of resilience in the face of environmental and health challenges. The insights shared by the experts underscore the necessity for collective action towards promoting sustainable practices and educating communities about the environmental factors that affect their health and well-being. Encouraging a collaborative approach between individuals and government bodies will be pivotal in fostering a healthier planet.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
