The Changing Face of Environmental Public Health Practice (50m Lecture)

Structures, practices and even the existence of environmental public health are under tremendous pressure. The dynamic nature of scientific and technical judgment brings additional scrutiny and questions regarding our profession’s capabilities and preparedness. Communities often ask how to achieve sustainable development. Meanwhile, evidence is accumulating that climate change and biodiversity/ ecosystem services are endangered critical components of a secure, prosperous future.

New questions include how to address the obesity crisis, improve access to green space, reduce health inequalities, and achieve sustainability, demanding effective strategies and interventions. Those working in local health departments are on the front lines.

We envision a “fit-for-purpose” scope of services where practitioners working in environmental public health are versed in all aspects of how people interact with the environment. Critical thinking and systems thinking skills are paramount; we need to overcome silos, develop environmental strategies that are effective and connected to the quality of life. We can deliver sustainable utilities, prevent flooding and respond to drought. We need to reduce carbon footprints, increase energy efficiency. Foodborne illness can be reduced through innovations in restaurant inspection. The list goes on. The funding is not growing.

We look at the experience of several successful health departments in Iowa and the delivery of services in rural communities across the State of Alaska. Recognition of the changing face of environmental health allows us to share epiphanies and contemplate how to best serve communities.

This presentation will look at the traditional scope of environmental health practice in local health departments; show its evolution, and present perspectives where scoping core services of environmental health practice should move. Changing priorities, new environmental threats, and increasing population makes this a challenge. Our conclusions have implications for the education, relationship-building, networking, training, and continuous professional development of the next generation of environmental public health professionals.