Clay’s Handbook of Environmental Health
Battersby, S. (2023). Clay’s handbook of environmental health. Routledge.
Chapter 1: Historical context, philosophy, and principles of environmental health Battersby, S. (Ed.). (2022)
Summary: Inequalities in society have far-reaching impacts, affecting health, the environment, and economic stability. Environmental health plays a critical role in public health, addressing factors like food safety, water quality, air pollution, and housing conditions. Environmental health practitioners are essential in improving overall well-being and quality of life for individuals and communities. Various regulations and acts, such as the Clean Air Act and Housing Act, have significantly influenced environmental health practices, emphasizing the importance of addressing wider determinants of health for societal benefit.
Rationale: Provides a foundational understanding of how historical influences have shaped current environmental health practices. By exploring the evolution of public health policies, students gain insights into the interconnected nature of social, economic, and environmental factors affecting population health. This knowledge enables students to critically analyze past approaches, develop evidence-based strategies, and advocate for environmental justice, preparing them to address contemporary environmental health challenges effectively and contribute to improving public health outcomes in the US.
Chapter 2: The environmental health practitioner Battersby, S. (Ed.). (2022)
Summary: Delves into the multifaceted competencies required for environmental health practitioners (EHPs), emphasizing the pivotal role of ethical principles in guiding decision-making and fostering public trust. It underscores the importance of human rights protection and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as foundational frameworks for EHPs, particularly those engaged in regulatory functions. The chapter advocates for a diverse skill set encompassing critical thinking, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration to effectively address environmental health challenges at local, national, and global levels, promoting health equity and sustainable practices for the well-being of individuals and communities.
Rationale: By emphasizing the significance of ethical decision-making, human rights protection, and interdisciplinary collaboration, students gain valuable insights into the complexities of addressing environmental health issues effectively. This chapter serves as a foundational guide for students, highlighting the importance of promoting health equity, sustainable practices, and societal well-being through their future work in public health.
