In the modern lifestyle, we are exposed to many toxic chemicals in our everyday life to meet our escalating material demands. As per an estimate, we come across about 500 chemical compounds daily, several being synthetic and toxic in nature. Many of these toxic chemicals have the potential to bring about severe health impacts not only in human beings but also in other living organisms existing in nature. Release of these chemicals into our environment also causes pollution of soil, water and air and these ultimately again reach the human body through the food chains.
BIOMAGNIFICATION
Concentration of these toxic chemicals in humans becomes higher through the process of biomagnifications, thus causing diverse health-related disorders and disruptions. Dysfunction of organs, development of allergies, respiratory and cardiac disorders, weakening of immune system, hormonal disturbances, reproductive problems and birth defects, growth-related issues and increased occurrence of cancer are some of the important manifestations. Many of the chemicals used in cosmetics and personal care products, surface cleaners and disinfectants, food preservatives, solvents and paints, air fresheners, bleaching chemicals, batteries, pesticides used in agriculture, lead and other heavy metals may be carcinogenic or wreak havoc with our body’s regulating system.
Hence, we must take utmost care to reduce the use of these destructive chemicals and avoid coming in contact with them.
FOOD ITEMS
Female hormone oxytocin is injected into cows for increase in milk, hens for more eggs and vegetables for larger size and looking fresh. Formaldehyde is used to preserve fish and melamine and urea are added to milk to show enhanced protein and fat. Dexamethasone is given to cattle, goats and sheep for increased production of meat. Even cold drinks are laden with pesticides, apples are coated with wax, chemical colours are added to fruits and vegetables to look fresh and flavour enhancers are added to food items.
Concentration of these toxic chemicals in humans becomes higher through the process of biomagnifications, thus causing diverse health-related disorders and disruptions. Dysfunction of organs, development of allergies, respiratory and cardiac disorders, weakening of immune system, hormonal disturbances, reproductive problems and birth defects, growth-related issues and increased occurrence of cancer are some of the important manifestations. Many of the chemicals used in cosmetics and personal care products, surface cleaners and disinfectants, food preservatives, solvents and paints, air fresheners, bleaching chemicals, batteries, pesticides used in agriculture, lead and other heavy metals may be carcinogenic or wreak havoc with our body’s regulating system.
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH ABOUT SURVIVAL
Human well-being and survival are undeniably intertwined with the health and stability of our surroundings. It’s a relationship that goes far beyond the aesthetics of pristine landscapes and clean air; it’s about survival. The air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat—all are intimately linked to the environment. Our health, whether we acknowledge it or not, is inextricably tied to the health of our planet.
Environmental degradation, climate change, and biodiversity loss are not distant threats anymore. They are stark realities unfolding before our eyes. Rising global temperatures, erratic weather patterns, loss of biodiversity, and the increasing frequency of natural disasters are all manifestations of a planet in distress. This crisis is not only endangering countless species but also the future of our own. It’s a crisis we can no longer afford to ignore.
According to the World Health Organisation, global environmental issues account for more than 12.6 million deaths each year. According to the data, more than 100 illnesses and injuries can be directly linked to environmental health concerns. Often, these issues have the greatest impact on communities that are poor and already have significant health care vulnerabilities.
Keeping up with the healthy environment may be a bit tedious considering the modern lifestyle. However, it is not impossible. Humans are already facing the repercussions of an unhealthy environment like climate change, floods, hurricanes, viral outbreaks, and more.
ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION
Environmental degradation takes a toll on human health that is often underestimated. Air pollution alone contributes to millions of premature deaths each year. Water pollution causes a myriad of diseases, especially in vulnerable communities lacking access to clean water. Climate change exacerbates heat waves, wildfires, and the spread of infectious diseases. These are not abstract concerns; they are real, tangible threats to our well-being.
To address the challenges we face, we must undergo a profound shift in our thinking. We can no longer view nature as an infinite resource to be exploited. Instead, we must recognize it as a finite, delicate ecosystem that sustains us. Our approach to development, consumption, and resource management must be reimagined to ensure the health of both the planet and its inhabitants.
Sustainable living is not a utopian ideal; it’s a necessity. It involves adopting practices that reduce our ecological footprint. This includes embracing renewable energy sources, reducing waste, and promoting responsible consumption. Sustainable agriculture practices that prioritize soil health and biodiversity over monoculture are essential for our food security. Embracing such practices is not just an option; it’s a survival imperative.
Individual actions are vital, but they alone cannot address the scale of the environmental crisis. Governments and international bodies must take the lead. Comprehensive policies are needed to curb pollution, incentivize sustainable practices, and protect vulnerable communities. International cooperation is essential to combat climate change and preserve biodiversity.
(Dr Naresh Purohit is Advisor – National Programme for Climate Change And Human Heal. The views expressed here are of the author)
