The public health benefits of implementing environmental policies: A comprehensive review of recent studies

Abstract

This comprehensive review explores the public health benefits of implementing environmental policies, focusing on recent studies from 2018 to 2024. The study aimed to systematically review and analyze the impact of environmental regulations on public health outcomes, identifying key benefits, challenges, and future directions. Utilizing a systematic literature review and content analysis methodology, the research involved a detailed examination of peer-reviewed articles and reports from academic databases and reputable organizations. The inclusion criteria targeted studies explicitly evaluating the impact of environmental policies on public health, published in English within the specified timeframe. Key findings reveal significant public health benefits associated with environmental policies, particularly those targeting air and water quality improvements. These policies have led to notable reductions in morbidity and mortality rates associated with pollution-related diseases. The analysis also highlights the critical role of governance and regulatory frameworks in facilitating effective policy implementation and stakeholder engagement. However, challenges such as the evolving nature of environmental threats and the complexity of stakeholder interests pose obstacles to policy effectiveness. The study concludes with strategic recommendations for policymakers and environmental health practitioners, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthened governance, leveraging technology, community engagement, and investment in research and education. Future research directions include longitudinal studies to assess long-term policy impacts, exploration of emerging environmental threats, and evaluation of innovative policy interventions. This review underscores the importance of environmental policies in promoting public health and outlines a roadmap for future policy-making at the intersection of environmental sustainability and public health. Keywords: Environmental Policies, Public Health, Governance and Regulatory Frameworks, Systematic Literature Review.