Health is not limited to the absence of disease, nor to the healthcare systems we visit when we fall ill. In reality, public health depends largely on the environment in which we live — the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we consume, and even the spaces where we walk or work. This invisible framework, often taken for granted, can be both a threat and an ally to our wellbeing.

Modern science clearly shows that environmental factors account for a significant portion of global morbidity and mortality. Air pollution, contamination of water and soil, exposure to chemicals, and extreme weather events caused by climate change are linked to diseases such as asthma, cardiovascular conditions, cancer, and infections (Frontiers in Public Health, 2020).

At the same time, public health initiatives go beyond treating the consequences. Through targeted policies, education, and infrastructure, public institutions can positively influence the environment — creating a cycle of improvement that connects health, quality of life, and environmental sustainability (Frontiers in Public Health, 2024).

1. Environmental Risk Factors

Environmental factors affecting public health are multifaceted and interconnected. Often, one factor amplifies the effects of another, creating a cycle of compounded risk. Science classifies these as physical, chemical, biological, and socioeconomic.

1.1 Air Pollution

Air pollution is among the most dangerous public health risks. Fine particles (PM₂.₅, PM₁₀), nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, and suspended particulates cause chronic lung inflammation, oxidative stress, and cardiovascular damage. Studies show that chronic exposure to high levels of air pollution increases mortality from cardio-respiratory diseases by 15–20% and raises the incidence of asthma and COPD (PMC, 2022).

In Greece, major cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki often experience pollution spikes due to traffic congestion and fuel combustion. The effects are not just physical — pollution also impacts mental wellbeing, increasing stress and cognitive disorders.

1.2 Water and Soil Contamination

Water and soil quality directly affect health through consumption, contact, and the food chain. Contamination by bacteria (e.g. E. coli), viruses, or chemicals can cause acute infections such as diarrhea or hepatitis, and long-term problems like liver cancer or kidney failure. Heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury) are neurotoxic — particularly dangerous for children and pregnant women.

1.3 Climate Change and Extreme Events

Climate change has multiple health impacts. Heatwaves increase the risk of heatstroke and heart or respiratory incidents; droughts limit access to safe drinking water; floods and wildfires spread infectious diseases and cause injuries and psychological trauma (PMC, 2021).

1.4 Socioeconomic Inequality and Urban Environments

Health risks are not only physical. Socioeconomic disparities determine exposure levels. Poorer areas often lack green spaces, face heavy traffic and noise, and suffer from heat islands. Insufficient access to clean water or food raises mortality and disease rates.

2. The Impactful Role of Public Health

Public health can reshape environmental impact for the benefit of people and ecosystems through policies, programs, education, and sustainable infrastructure.

Good Practices

• Recycling and Waste Management: Reduces pollutants and exposure to toxins.
• Clean Transport & Renewables: Lowers CO₂ emissions, improving air quality.
• One Health Programs: Integrate human, animal, and environmental health.
• Education: Raises awareness and long-term responsibility for health and the planet.

3. Data and Global Examples

• Urban Policies: Copenhagen’s 30% expansion of bike lanes cut pollution-related illnesses by 12%.
• Clean Water Programs: In India and Africa, access to safe water cut diarrheal cases by up to 40%.
• Recycling: Europe’s waste management efforts reduced heavy metal concentrations in urban soil by 15–20% in a decade.

4. Strategy for Managing Environmental Impacts on Public Health

Goals

• Reduce exposure to pollution and climate-related risks
• Prevent disease through environmental improvement
• Cut healthcare costs and citizen hardship

Core Actions

Public health and the environment are inseparably linked. Pollution, contamination, climate change, and inequality increase disease and mortality — yet with the right policies and education, these risks can turn into opportunities for healthier living.

The challenge is twofold: to recognize the dangers and to harness public health’s potential to reshape the environment for the common good. For Greece, urgent priorities include monitoring environmental health indicators, community education, green infrastructure, and integrating environmental awareness into health policy.

The public health of the future will not be defined solely by medicine or technology — but by humanity’s ability to live in harmony with nature, turning every threat into an opportunity for wellbeing and quality of life.