What are the ways individuals and communities can protect themselves from the harmful health effects of environmental toxins?

Protecting Ourselves From Environmental Toxins

Environmental toxins often refer to harmful substances and pollutants found in our surroundings which can adversely affect our health. According to the World Health Organization, environmental hazards account for nearly one-quarter of all diseases, causing over 12.6 million deaths worldwide every year (World Health Organization, 2020). Here are some ways individuals and communities can protect themselves from the harmful health effects of such toxins.

Reducing Exposure to Toxins at Home

Individuals can begin protecting themselves by making modifications in the home. This could mean using safe, non-toxic cleaning products, air purifiers, and ensuring proper ventilation. Avoiding plastics to store or heat-up food also reduces exposure to harmful substances like BPA and phthalates. It's also important to reduce the use of flame-retardants, pesticides, and other dangerous substances commonly found in houses (Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, 2019).

Community Support

Communities can protect their residents by actively promoting environmental health. Encourage local businesses to use and sell environmentally friendly products, initiate clean-ups to decrease pollution, and promote green spaces, which improve air quality and offer residents a toxin-free space (American Public Health Association, 2014).

Advocacy and Legislation

Pushing for legislation that removes harmful toxins from the surroundings, promotes clean energy, and encourages recycling, can have a large impact on reducing environmental toxins in both communities and wider societies. Advocacy for these changes on both local and national levels can be effective in making long-term, sustainable progress (The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 2020).