Sixteenth International Conference on Environmental, Cultural, Economic & Social Sustainability

Abstract

Environmental health is a scientific field that deals with physical, chemical and biological factors that have external effect to human health as a result of the surrounding environment (WHO, 2018). It involves identification, analysis and measures to mitigate those environmental factors that have potential to affect the well-being of the current and the future generation negatively. Therefore, it seeks proactive measures to prevent diseases, through provision of healthy sustainable environments for human health. Anecdotal evidence suggest that environmental health services (EHS) are not adequately rendered in rural communities or not at all. Baseline data was collected through a household survey on environmental health services rendered in the rural areas of Louiville, Mpumalanga, Ehlanzeni District Municipality. A convenience sampling technique was used for this descriptive exploratory longitudinal study. A household survey was administered by third year environmental health students who were trained on field research and household interviews prior to conducting the household survey. This study aims to contribute significantly to the body of knowledge on municipal health services rendered and the challenges which deprive the communities of free basic services. The study findings aid in informing the planning for sustainable development in rural communities and enhance the lives of its people.