Clean Air, Healthy People

Clean Air, Healthy People: NEHA Shines Spotlight on Unsung Heroes of Public Health

DENVER (Sept. 26, 2025) — The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) today joined organizations around the world in celebrating World Environmental Health Day, recognizing the essential role of environmental health professionals in safeguarding communities.

This year’s theme, “Clean Air, Healthy People,” highlights the link between clean air and good health. Air free from pollutants is critical to preventing respiratory disease and supporting strong, healthy communities.

“Protecting the public from air pollution requires not only strong governmental policies, but also a highly trained and effective environmental health workforce to carry them out,” said NEHA President Larry Ramdin, MPH, MA, REHS/RS, CP-FS, HHS, CHO.

Environmental health professionals often work behind the scenes, yet their impact is vital. They respond after natural disasters to ensure safe food, drinking water and sanitary facilities. They inspect restaurants, guide safe public gatherings and advise hospitals and schools. Their expertise extends to disaster planning, contact tracing, food and water safety, and protecting vulnerable populations.

World Environmental Health Day also honors the legacy of William Gorgas, U.S. Army Surgeon General, whose pioneering work in eradicating Yellow Fever enabled construction of the Panama Canal. His dedication reflects the ongoing commitment of environmental health professionals worldwide.

Despite modest compensation, limited recognition and chronic under-resourcing, the workforce continues to provide critical protection against environmental threats. “Our profession is essential to modern society,” Ramdin said. “On World Environmental Health Day, we thank the environmental health professionals who prepare, guide and lead us through today’s challenges while building a healthier tomorrow.”

About NEHA
The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) represents 7,615 governmental, private, academic and uniformed services sector environmental health professionals in the U.S., its territories and internationally. NEHA is the profession’s strongest advocate for excellence in the practice of environmental health as it delivers on its mission to build, sustain and empower an effective environmental health workforce.