To Change the Environment, We Must First Change Our Behaviors
I was delighted to attend the 20th International Conference on Urban Health in Marrakech, to learn about innovative models of urban development and planning for public health. Health is central to every human being, and life without health is worth nothing. It was a good idea to hold the conference at the Marrakech Water Museum, “Aman”, as water is the source of life and a basic resource for health. It was an honor for us that the conference was held in the charming and attractive city of Marrakech, where the world meets for tourism, art, culture, and science.
It was incredible to see people coming from different countries to meet and discuss urban health and environmental protection; a global issue that concerns every individual. Despite the development and progress made by society, the impact of climate change still poses a great danger to the health of humans, animals as well as the environment. It occurred to me that to make real change, we must first change our behaviors.
During the conference, many studies and research projects were discussed. These highlighted the impacts of climate change including rising temperatures, air pollution, floods, poor waste management, mental health, children's well-being, food insecurity, and the increase in infectious diseases such as malaria and leishmaniasis. Notably these impacts adversely affect vulnerable populations and developing countries. Innovative solutions and community resilience were equally discussed.
The conference was distinguished by:
- The great diversity of workshops and presentations, which included almost all topics and research related to the environment and urban health and their relationship to climate change. Morocco's achievements were also presented, the most notable being creating green cities, such as Rabat and Agadir, to enhance urban health and the well-being of residents, as well as improve the quality of life.
- Engaging youth in environmental issues as torchbearers, community activists, and legacy bearers of sustainable development. The youth present were full of energy and enthusiasm to build a healthier and more resilient future.
The conference was also an opportunity to meet new people from all over the world, and from different specialties. We met doctors, community activists, engineers, designers, professors, and researchers. Diversity was present in every aspect - scientific, cultural, ethnic - even the food was diverse. However, this is what distinguishes Marrakech city in particular. The beautiful thing is that despite this diversity and difference, the environment brings us together and unites us.
Through the conference discussions, we concluded that although public health spending is increasing every year, the results are not improving. So, collaboration and equity are hugely needed. It is necessary to increase investment in prevention and create an urban environment that promotes public health, and this is everyone’s responsibility.
However, to make tangible environmental changes, we need to first change our behavior. There are simple behaviors that can help combat pollution and reduce the impacts of climate change, such as cycling, walking, eating healthy, maintaining body hygiene, sorting and recycling waste, replacing chemicals with natural materials, and planting trees. The conference emphasized the importance of everyone contributing to protecting our environment for a healthy life and a better future.
Another unique and very enjoyable experience I had was the clay workshop which allowed me to go back to my childhood and relive memories of playing with soil. The clay in my hands made me connect with the earth and feel the simplicity that makes me happy. My last reflection for the week - is "Life is beautiful the simpler it is".