Asian forum on environmental health policy: Challenges and perspectives of environmental health problems in the region in the next 30 years
Journal
Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine
Journal Volume
17
Journal Issue
2
Pages
170-172
Date Issued
2012
Author(s)
Abstract
Asia is the world’s most populous continent, accomodating circa 3.9 billion people in 48 countries. It is an important player in terms of the environment and world economy, with the second largest gross domestic product of all continents, after Europe. This geographical entity includes many developed countries, such as Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, and a number of very high growth nations, such as China and India. Its climate is very diverse, ranging from the very moist (southeastern parts) to dry (interior), and very cold (e.g., Siberia) to tropical (southern regions). The countries of this continent not only share—to varying degrees—historical experiences but also the effects of environmental pollution, such as Asian dust storms (ADS). The recent Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in Japan has delivered the clear message that although an environmental challenge may be initiated in one specific location, many countries in the region may suffer from the consequences. Global climate change also underlines the fact that environmental issues are often global and, consequently, multi-national collaboration is not an option but a necessity. Environmental health problems cannot be properly resolved if the counter-measures are restricted only to within the political borders. Accurate assessment of the problems and the development of appropriate solutions can best be achieved on a broader, regional scale, by communication and collaboration among those scientists and policy-makers facing the same issues. The past of one country can mirror the present or future situation of another country. Japan, one of the most developed countries in the world, and South Korea, now considered to be a developed country, have experienced very fast economic growth, which has been accompanied by worsening health of its population due to environmental pollution. Ageing has for some time been an important issue in Japanese society and is now also a challenging problem in South Korea. China is the largest economy in Asia and the second largest economy in the world. However, it is now recognizing the adverse consequences of rapid industrialization and development in terms of environmental health. The experiences of South Korea or Japan could help China better prepare for the potential challenges to be faced in terms of environmental health. Such recognition has led to the organization of a long-term platform for communication and collaboration among environmental health experts representing the diverse geographical areas of Asia. The first International Forum for Environmental Health Policy and Science was held in Seoul in November 25, 2011, and delegates from leading academic institutes in Bangkok, Kyoto, Seoul, Taipei, and Wuhan participated. The editorial presents a summary of the motivation for holding this forum, the perspectives of each participant, and future directions that were agreed on, with the intention to encourage other scientists around the region to join in and contribute.
Type
review