In today’s rapidly socio-economic landscape, which is defined by societal challenges, the government’s responsibility in addressing pressing social issues has been a bone of contention. In this respect, some individuals argue that the reduction of environmental pollution and housing problems should warrant greater concentration from policymakers in order to prevent health-related obstacles. From my perspective, I agree with this viewpoint.
One key reason is that environmental degradation is increasingly deteriorating, which directly affects humans’ overall health. In the past few decades, rapid industrialization has forced many governments to get involved in the economic race, when economic imperatives take precedence over environmental sustainability. This undermines the long-term resilience of ecosystems, therefore causing respiratory-related health issues due to air pollution and other serious issues. This stems from the far-reaching ramifications of damaged ecosystems on daily water usage and food. In the long run, such hurdles will progressively hinder the development of both physical and mental well-being, particularly when people have to live under uncertainties. Against this backdrop, if reforms are initiated by legislative bodies, such problems can be somewhat addressed immediately, contributing to the future sustainability.
Looking at a wider spectrum, the rise of illnesses and diseases reflects the systemic vulnerability, particularly when the healthcare system does not function effectively. For instance, in developing countries such as Vietnam or Thailand, ecological issues always exist simultaneously with the widespread unavailability of the healthcare system. To some extent, medical care considerably fast-tracks the prevention of illness compared to remedying the environment, which requires a substantial amount of financial funds and time. Nevertheless, housing problems are becoming perplexing for influential urbanists. Both in developing and developed countries, the scarcity of houses due to the high prices is accelerating. For example, the average price of a house in the United States is around $500.000, reaching the stratosphere. This is almost unaffordable for conventional workers, which pushes them towards worse options. Such choices are synonym to constrained sanitation, insurance, well-developed infrastructure, and security around residences. Consequently, such difficulties may significantly cause psychological and physical strain to underserved populations.
In conclusion, I support that governments should place great emphasis on curbing environmental pollution and housing problems. Firstly, because of the environmental impacts on humans’ daily lives and the importance of ecological resilience to the future. More importantly, the shortage of houses is regarded as the main concern today, as it hinders the better living conditions for people; all of these should be urgently resolved in pursuit of illness prevention.