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| Illustration by Ai |
Environmental health is becoming one of the most critical public health challenges of the 21st century as climate change, rapid urbanization, pollution, and social inequality increasingly interact to shape disease risks. A study by Loso Judijanto of IPOSS Jakarta, published in the International Journal of Integrative Research (IJIR) in 2026, highlights how environmental factors are driving a growing burden of respiratory, cardiovascular, metabolic, and infectious diseases. The findings are particularly important for developing countries, including Indonesia, where urban growth and environmental pressures continue to intensify.
The
study reviews scientific evidence published between 2020 and 2026 and presents
a comprehensive picture of how environmental conditions influence public health
outcomes. According to Judijanto, environmental health can no longer be viewed
through a single issue such as air pollution or sanitation alone. Instead,
multiple environmental determinants interact simultaneously, creating complex
risks that affect communities in different ways.
Rapid
urbanization has transformed cities across the world. Expanding populations,
increased energy consumption, land-use changes, and industrial development have
created new environmental challenges. Air quality, water availability,
sanitation systems, waste management, urban heat, and access to green spaces
now play a significant role in determining health outcomes. These factors often
overlap with social and economic inequalities, causing some communities to face
far greater risks than others.
One
of the most significant findings of the review concerns air pollution.
Scientific evidence consistently shows that exposure to particulate matter and
chemical pollutants is associated with respiratory diseases, cardiovascular
disorders, and metabolic conditions. Long-term exposure to fine particulate
matter, commonly known as PM2.5, has been linked to increased mortality and
higher rates of chronic illnesses. Household air pollution caused by the use of
solid fuels for cooking and heating also remains a major concern, particularly
among low-income populations with limited access to clean energy sources.
The
study highlights Indonesia as an example of a country experiencing multiple
environmental health challenges simultaneously. Previous research in Indonesia
has found connections between PM2.5 exposure and diabetes prevalence. Studies
conducted in Jakarta have also documented the substantial health and economic
burden associated with air pollution, particularly PM2.5 and ozone exposure.
Industrial areas present additional concerns because airborne particles can
contain toxic substances that may affect children and adults differently.
Water,
sanitation, and hygiene—often referred to as WASH—remain another essential
pillar of environmental health. Unsafe water supplies, inadequate sanitation
infrastructure, and poor hygiene practices continue to contribute to the spread
of infectious diseases. The review notes that while research on WASH in
Indonesia has expanded over recent years, significant gaps remain in
implementation, financing, behavioral change programs, and equitable service
distribution.
Climate
change further intensifies environmental health risks. Rising temperatures
increase the likelihood of heat-related illnesses, while changing weather
patterns affect water availability, food security, and disease transmission.
Vector-borne diseases, which are spread by organisms such as mosquitoes, may
become more widespread as environmental conditions change. Extreme weather
events can also damage infrastructure and disrupt essential public services,
creating additional health vulnerabilities for affected populations.
Another
emerging concern identified in the study is the growing presence of new
pollutants and contaminants. Advances in industrial production, urban
development, and consumer products have introduced new pathways of
environmental exposure. These contaminants can enter air, water, and soil
systems, creating long-term risks that are not always fully understood. As a
result, researchers emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring and
scientific investigation to identify and manage potential threats.
To
better understand these challenges, Judijanto conducted a qualitative
literature review using a thematic and interpretive approach. Scientific
articles from major databases and academic platforms were examined to identify
common patterns, emerging trends, and effective strategies for improving
environmental health governance. Rather than focusing on a single environmental
issue, the study integrated findings from multiple disciplines to create a
broader understanding of environmental health in the modern era.
The
review identifies several strategies that consistently appear effective in
reducing environmental health risks. These include preventing pollution at its
source, strengthening access to clean water and sanitation services,
integrating climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, expanding
environmental monitoring systems, and improving cross-sector collaboration
among governments, researchers, businesses, and communities. The study also
highlights the growing role of sensor technologies, data-driven monitoring
systems, and digital tools in supporting evidence-based decision-making.
Community
participation emerged as another key factor. Environmental health interventions
are more likely to succeed when local communities are actively involved in
planning, implementation, and evaluation processes. Public awareness,
environmental education, and inclusive governance can help ensure that policies
address the needs of vulnerable populations while promoting long-term
sustainability.
According
to Judijanto, environmental health should be viewed through an integrated
framework that combines risk management, social justice, and planetary health
principles. Such an approach recognizes that human health is closely connected
to environmental conditions and that sustainable development requires
coordinated action across multiple sectors.
The
study carries important implications for policymakers, public health
professionals, urban planners, and environmental managers. As cities continue
to grow and climate-related challenges become more severe, investments in
environmental protection and public health infrastructure will be essential.
Strengthening environmental governance today may help reduce disease burdens,
improve quality of life, and increase community resilience in the future.
Author
Profile
Loso
Judijanto is a
researcher affiliated with IPOSS Jakarta. His academic interests include
environmental health, public health policy, sustainable development,
environmental governance, climate change adaptation, and the relationship
between environmental determinants and human well-being.
Research
Source
Judijanto,
L. (2026). Environmental Health in the Era of Climate Crisis and
Urbanization: A Review of Determinants, Risks, Technology, and Sustainable
Governance. International Journal of Integrative Research (IJIR), Vol. 4,
No. 8, pp. 661–680. DOI: https://doi.org/10.59890/ijir.v4i8.236.
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