Relationship Between Waste Management Practices and Community Health Risks Under Environmental Health Law

Abstract

Waste management practices are integral to safeguarding community health, and improper waste disposal can lead to significant health risks, such as infectious diseases, respiratory conditions, and environmental contamination. This study explores the relationship between waste management practices and community health risks under the framework of environmental health law. A qualitative literature review methodology was employed to examine a wide range of studies, case reports, and policy documents that highlight the impacts of poor waste management on public health. The findings suggest that inefficient waste management practices, such as improper disposal of hazardous waste, unregulated landfills, and inadequate recycling systems, contribute to a variety of health hazards. These include the contamination of air, soil, and water, leading to diseases like respiratory infections, gastrointestinal disorders, and vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue. Environmental health laws are essential in regulating waste management to protect public health, providing guidelines for proper disposal, waste reduction, and promoting community-based waste management initiatives. However, the study also identifies gaps in law enforcement and compliance, which hinder the effectiveness of these regulations. It emphasizes the need for stronger legal frameworks, better enforcement mechanisms, and greater community participation in waste management practices. This research underscores the critical role of environmental health laws in mitigating health risks related to waste and advocates for a holistic approach to waste management that integrates legal accountability, sustainability, and public health protection.