Environmental Health, Pollution, and Society: Sustainable Solutions and Preventive Strategies

Environmental pollution has emerged as one of the most critical global challenges, posing serious threats to public health, ecological sustainability, and social equity. According to estimates by the World Health Organization and Landrigan et al., environmental pollution is responsible for nearly 9 million premature deaths globally each year, with a disproportionate burden borne by low- and middle-income countries, including India. This chapter critically examines the interrelationships between environmental health, pollution, and society, with a focus on major pollution types, their sources, and associated health impacts. Special attention is given to vulnerable populations, including children, women, the elderly, and socio-economically marginalized communities, highlighting issues of environmental inequality and justice. The chapter further reviews international and national policy frameworks, with particular reference to the Indian context, and evaluates their effectiveness in pollution control and health protection. Sustainable solutions and preventive strategies—such as pollution prevention, renewable energy adoption, integrated waste management, sustainable urban planning, safe water and sanitation, and occupational health protection—are discussed as pathways to reduce environmental health risks. Drawing on global evidence and the Indian policy context, this chapter uniquely integrates environmental health risks with environmental justice and sustainable development strategies, thereby contributing to a holistic understanding of pollution prevention and public health promotion.