CIEH Seeks Collaboration with Newly Appointed Secretary of State on Key Environmental Health Issues

The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) has taken a proactive step by reaching out to the newly appointed Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, the Rt Hon Claire Coutinho MP. This initiative seeks to foster a strategic collaboration aimed at furthering the UK's goals for sustainable environmental and public health policies.

In a comprehensive letter penned by Dr Phil James, CEO of CIEH, the institute articulated its vision for environmental health as outlined in their Manifesto for Environmental Health 2023.

Key Recommendations Include:

Strategic Energy Efficiency Measures: Addressing the intertwined challenges of housing emissions and public health, CIEH advocates for energy efficiency strategies that combat both. By mitigating the health risks of cold homes, there is potential to alleviate the significant financial strain on the NHS.

Rethinking Domestic Wood Burners: CIEH has identified an emerging environmental and health concern with wood burners in urban environments. Highlighting the significant emissions, particularly PM2.5, they recommend stricter regulations or potential bans in areas where alternative heating options are viable.

Dr Phil James, CEO at CIEH, said:

"Our letter to the Secretary of State is not merely an outreach; it's a call for combined action. With the recent publication of our 'Manifesto for Environmental Health 2023', we are raising the banner of environmental health higher than ever, seeking to make it a forefront concern for policymakers. The future of the UK's environment and public health is intertwined, and collaborative strategies are essential."