Topic > Sustainable Health Education - 1174

The concept of sustainability derives from principles based on the development and maintenance of a harmonious environment, society and economy. Regardless of the discipline, these three areas must be the focus of focus, as they are not mutually exclusive. Above all, education must be recognized as the main factor in achieving sustainability. Dr. Rosalyn McKeown's Education for Sustainable Development Toolkit is based on the concept that success depends on a community's willingness and ability to integrate education with sustainable efforts. Given the length of Dr. McKeown's toolkit, it is virtually impossible for the writer to disseminate every detailed point. However, it is possible to analyze the key concepts deemed appropriate for teaching sustainability in the context of health education. Health education is “consciously constructed learning opportunities involving some form of communication designed to improve health literacy, including knowledge improvement, and develop life skills that promote individual and community health” ( Kirch, 2008). The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics infers that health education specialists promote, maintain, and improve individual and community health. Considering these points, health education, in a philosophical sense, has its roots in the fundamental concept of sustainability. There are many factors that contribute to the sustainability of health education. Given the broad spectrum of health education and all that the discipline entails, educators should focus efforts on assisting communities in making healthy choices and addressing key risk factors. In the foreground, emphasis should be placed on physical activity, healthy food consumption, and the use of paper in the centre. Concrete goals and objectives must be achieved and mastered in the pursuit of sustainable development. Forming strong partnerships to utilize and allocate resources is critical to success. Policies must be created before training can begin. Health educators who are entrusted with the task of achieving sustainable development should not micromanage the process. Above all, community members must understand and appreciate the impact of personal health on the environment, economy and society at large. Works Cited Kirch, Wilhelm. (2008). The Encyclopedia of Public Health. New York, NY: Springer Science and Business Media, LLC. McKeown, Rosalyn. (2002). Education for Sustainable Development Toolkit. Retrieved from http://www.esdtoolkit.org/default.htm The Health Education Specialist: A Companion Guide for Professional Excellence (6th ed.). (2010). Whitehall, Pennsylvania.