The environment plays a pivotal role in maintaining human health and quality of life. With increasing environmental pollution and the degradation of natural resources, protecting the environment has become essential for public health and disease prevention. Recent studies indicate that approximately 24% of diseases worldwide are linked to preventable environmental factors, such as air and water pollution and exposure to harmful chemicals.<br /><br />1. The Relationship Between Environment and Public Health<br /><br />Public health is directly affected by environmental cleanliness and the quality of essential elements like water, air, and soil. For example:<br /> • Air pollution is associated with higher rates of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.<br /> • Water pollution contributes to the spread of infectious diseases such as cholera and typhoid.<br /> • Improper waste management promotes the proliferation of insects and germs, increasing the risk of epidemics.<br /><br />2. Impacts of Climate Change on Health<br /><br />Climate change affects public health through:<br /> • Increased heat waves, leading to droughts and heat strokes.<br /> • Altered patterns of infectious diseases, with illnesses like malaria and dengue spreading to new regions.<br /> • Natural disasters that damage health infrastructure and increase population displacement.<br /><br />3. Strategies for Environmental Protection to Improve Health<br /><br />To protect the environment and enhance public health, the following measures should be implemented:<br /> 1. Promote the use of clean energy to reduce harmful gas emissions.<br /> 2. Manage water resources sustainably and ensure safe drinking water.<br /> 3. Improve transportation systems and encourage eco-friendly mobility.<br /> 4. Plant trees and protect green spaces to purify air and reduce heat.<br /> 5. Raise environmental awareness and encourage sustainable behaviors among individuals.<br /><br />Protecting the environment is not only an ethical responsibility toward the planet but also a direct investment in human health and well-being. Integration between environmental and health policies forms the cornerstone for sustainable development and healthy communities. Both individuals and governments must actively contribute to achieving this shared goal.<br /><br />Zahraa Emad<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University <br /> The First University in Iraq.