How Environmental Sustainability Shapes Public Health in 2025

The health of our planet and the well-being of the humans who call it home are deeply interconnected. Climate change, air pollution, and a lack of clean water are not just environmental challenges—they are urgent public health crises. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that climate change will lead to approximately 250,000 additional deaths each year between 2030 and 2050 due to malnutrition, illnesses, and heat stress.¹

Addressing these issues requires a shift toward sustainable solutions, including the expansion of renewable energy, stricter air quality regulations, and investments in clean water infrastructure. Policy-driven initiatives, such as Norway’s commitment to electric vehicles and Europe’s Ambient Air Quality Directive, demonstrate that progress is possible. By adopting cleaner energy, improving urban planning, and enhancing global water security, we can build a healthier future for both people and the planet. In this article, we explore the most pressing environmental challenges, their health impacts, and the policies and innovations that offer a path toward a healthier, more sustainable future.

How does climate change impact public health?

The summer of 2024 was the hottest summer on Earth since global recordkeeping began in 1880.² Heat stress is the leading cause of weather-related deaths.³ It can worsen existing health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, asthma, and mental health disorders. Additionally, excessive heat increases the risk of accidents and wildfires. Extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and intense, posing significant health risks to communities worldwide. 

Climate change is also expanding the range of vector-borne diseases—illnesses transmitted to humans by vectors like mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and sandflies. Warmer temperatures and shifting ecosystems are enabling these vectors to thrive in regions where they were previously rare, leading to increased cases of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Lyme disease. In 2024, a record 12.6 million suspected dengue cases were reported in North and South America and the Caribbean, nearly triple the number from the previous year. This surge also led to over 7,700 deaths, marking a more than 200% increase compared to 2023.⁴ 

What are the dangers of air pollution?

Air pollution is a significant environmental threat to human health, contributing to respiratory conditions, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. Seven million premature deaths each year are associated with air pollution.⁵ It stems from both human activities and natural processes, with major contributors being transportation, industrial emissions, agriculture, household fuel use, and natural events like wildfires and volcanic eruptions. These sources collectively pose serious health risks and environmental challenges.

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), the most dangerous air pollutant globally, and ground-level ozone, which is often associated with smog, are key pollutants that worsen existing health issues. Additionally, long-term exposure to polluted air has been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.⁶

How many people lack access to clean water?

Access to clean water is recognized as a fundamental human right. However, approximately two billion people worldwide lack access to safely managed drinking water.⁷ This lack of access contributes to the spread of waterborne diseases, such as cholera and typhoid, and disproportionately affects low-income communities.

Agricultural runoff and industrial waste further threaten freshwater supplies, increasing exposure to hazardous chemicals. For example, in Minnesota, where more than one million people drink well water, nitrate pollution—largely from agricultural runoff—has compromised groundwater quality.⁸ This contamination poses health risks such as methemoglobinemia, or "blue baby syndrome," and has been linked to certain cancers.

How can renewable energy combat climate change?  

Transitioning to renewable energy sources is one of the most effective ways to combat climate change and improve air quality.⁹ Solar, wind, and hydropower significantly reduce carbon emissions by replacing fossil fuels, which are the largest source of CO₂ pollution. By using renewable energy sources such as wind, water, and the sun, little to no greenhouse gases or air pollutants are released during operation.

Policy-driven sustainability efforts can make a difference. The transportation sector is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in European nations, and private cars are the leading source. Norway set an ambitious goal to achieve 100% electric vehicle sales by 2025. In 2024, more than 88% of new cars sold in Norway were fully electric.¹⁰ Public health researchers expect that all of the citizens of Norway will enjoy cleaner air and improved health as a result. 

Cleaner air leads to healthier communities

Reducing air pollution requires efforts from both individuals and governments. These are actions that individuals can take to reduce air pollution:

Governments can reduce air pollution by:

Europe has proven it can be done. The Ambient Air Quality Directive (AAQD), initially adopted in 2008 and revised in December 2024, sets stringent limits on air pollutants to protect public health and the environment. These limits, which are measured and enforced, have led to a 45% decrease in premature deaths attributable to PM2.5 between 2005 and 2022.¹¹

Clean water saves lives—and so much more

Expanding access to clean, safe water is essential for global health and development. To get clean water to more people, governments and organizations have to invest in water infrastructure. Reliable pipes, treatment plants, and distribution networks are necessary, and local communities must get involved in water resource management. Economically, investments in water and sanitation infrastructure result in lower health care costs and increased productivity, leading to overall economic growth. 

Additionally, sustainable technologies, like solar-powered water pumps, can make water accessible in remote areas while minimizing environmental impact. Promoting hygiene education helps reduce waterborne diseases and maximizes the benefits of clean water. The result is healthier humans and greater global equality.

Protecting public health in the face of climate change, air pollution, and water insecurity requires urgent and continued action. These threats are not isolated issues. They are complex, interconnected challenges that demand comprehensive, sustainable solutions. 

When communities have clean air to breathe, safe water to drink, and protection from climate-related health risks, they experience longer, healthier lives with fewer preventable diseases. By prioritizing environmental health, we not only mitigate climate change but also create a future where public health is strengthened, inequities are reduced, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive. After all, a healthier planet means healthier people.