Environmental and Occupational Health: Issues in Public Health

I had no idea this NCDMPH resource existed! In general, I have always felt very uneducated when it comes to disaster preparedness. Having access to online trainings and educational materials for different kinds of disasters makes me feel very relieved. Since this is quake country, I definitely will look into the materials and trainings on earthquakes. I will be doing this with special attention to the San Andreas and Hayward Faults: I live in California and did not know about the DHV. I did know that there are plenty of volunteer opportunities, but never knew where people could go and sign up.  I hope to continue my education to eventually become an LCSW. Perhaps one day I too can become a qualified volunteer for the California DHV. It is great to know that this is the site to go for people who can put their skillsets to good use to when disaster strikes!

There is so much misinformation and denial about global warming and climate change. Industries more than ever are working to spread misinformation in order to prioritize their profits, while shifting blame or supporting ignorance about the issue. Their monetary and social influence along with support from wealthy politicians continue to fuel the denial and lack of collective action to help the Earth. It is frustrating to me that we have the proven research that we are harming the planet and yet all we hear about nowadays is that global warming is all a hoax. People are just not listening to the experts, even less the folks who are currently in charge of this country. Although we can educate and empower communities about global warming such as the ways in which they can help the environment, I feel like things won't change until there is a more united, collective effort from the people, public health officials and scientists to push hard for policy changes that protect the earth. Th...

This module really made me reflect upon my household waste. My family relies a lot on plastic and produces a lot of waste. I definitely would like to find alternatives and learn how to become more self sufficient. After reviewing the Zero Waste Ted Talk, I reviewed my own habits. I do use reusable bags when I go shopping, I compost, go thrift shopping for second hand clothes, and try to reuse containers for food and drinks. I do tend to hold on to things in my home due to sentimental value, not to the extent of hoarding of course but I definitely want to live a more minimalist lifestyle in order to help de-clutter my space and to really take care of belongings that really do matter to me. The Ted Talk really helped me take a step back and realize how much I contribute to the problem, but that I too can be part of the solution. But I can't do it alone, I need to get my family onboard as well.  I need to encourage my family to stop buying water bottles in bulk and actually purchase...