What is an environmental hazard? |
Why does this matter?
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An environmental hazard is defined by Al-Sharqi (2017) as “a substance, state or event which has the potential to threaten the surrounding natural environment and/or adversely affect human's health”.
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Data trends show that environmental hazards are happening with increased frequency.
We found that 119 disasters in the last ten years in the United States have estimated cost impacts of $1 billion or more each; Texas shows similar trends. |
Image: American Museum of Natural History
Natural Hazards in Texas
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Image: New York Times
Anthropogenic Hazards in Texas
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Environmental Hazards and Health
Health is defined as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” by the World Health Organization (W.H.O.).
We found there is an:
We found there is an:
- Increased proximity to environmental hazards is correlated with increased stress and reduced well-being
- Increased impact on impoverished communities
