"A Healthy Environment Supports Healthy People"
Articles/Websites
Grades6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12Science, Social Studies, Career Skills
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Provided by Harvard Public Health
What it is
- This article features an interview with Wanjira Mathai about her work with the Carter Center, The Green Belt Movement, and the World Resources Institute, and the connections between human health and the environment.
- Students will learn how poverty impacts a country's ability to deal with climate change and environmental issues, how land use change impacts the water cycle, and about restoration efforts in Africa, such as agroforestry.
Teaching tips
Positives
- The depth of Wanjira Mathai's work and her experience in both environmental restoration and public health make her an important voice.
- The fact that both Mathai and her mother are notable figures in this environmental movement is inspirational for women and girls.
Prerequisites
- Students should understand some of the impacts of deforestation on the environment.
Differentiation & Implementation
- History students can research past instances of waterborne illness outbreaks, such as cholera, and connect them to outbreaks today. Additionally, students can research the impact of climate change on disease and water quality.
- Based on the interview, students can define a healthy environment and describe what it looks and feels like.
- Students can relate Wanjira Mathai's work to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, determining which goals are represented in and supported by her work in public health and environmentalism.
- After reading the article, students can research The Green Belt Movement or other measures for reforestation.
From the scientist review
This interview with Wanjira Mathai accurately describes how deforestation and land use changes disrupt the water cycle, make flooding worse, and increase our vulnerability to infectious diseases. This resource is recommended for teaching.
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