HPTED: Health Promotion Through Environmental Design
The Flint water crisis faces challenges in restoring drinkable water, holding those responsible accountable, and addressing high lead levels in some areas despite water filters. Residents desire to leave, but the financial burden and lack of homebuyers make relocation difficult. Plans to replace lead service lines are in progress, but funding is uncertain. Ongoing investigations and newly released documents contribute to the prolonged public attention on the scandal. The lasting impact of lead poisoning on Flint's residents remains a major concern. This catastrophe exposed negligence and a disregard for public safety by state officials, making it a profoundly tragic and scandalous event that prompted developments in Health Promotion Through Environmental Design (HPTED).
The water crisis began when the financially struggling city of Flint decided to save money by using treated water from the Flint River. Unfortunately, the river water was not properly treated and tested, which led to the drinking water being contaminated by lead from the city’s pipes. This contamination exposed approximately 8,000 children to a toxic element that results in lifelong damage to their brains and nervous systems. Despite receiving complaints and warnings, the state government disregarded the issue for an extended period, downplayed residents' concerns, and dismissed evidence of contamination. They finally acknowledged the problem after independent testing revealed alarming levels of lead in the water, validating the concerns raised by residents. This revelation not only exposed the government's negligence but also highlighted the extent of the health risks that the community had been subjected to. The independent testing results served as an undeniable wake-up call, and Flint eventually switched back to buying water from Detroit. However, public trust in tap water remains low, and replacing the lead pipes poses significant financial challenges.
Lead is especially hazardous for young children, impacting their brain and nervous system development. Adults are also susceptible to harm, including high blood pressure and kidney damage. Pregnant women exposed to lead face risks such as miscarriages, stillbirths, premature births, and babies with low birth weight. Lead poisoning poses a threat to children, potentially leading to comas or even fatalities. Even mild exposure affects their health, leading to reduced cognitive function, shorter attention spans, increased antisocial behaviors, and learning difficulties. Other bodily effects include anemia, high blood pressure, kidney problems, impaired immune system, and reproductive organ damage. Lead's impact on brain function and behavior can be long-lasting. No safe level of lead poisoning exists. Even small amounts (e.g., 3.5 g/dL) lower intelligence and hinder learning. The severity of symptoms correlates with lead exposure levels.
Health Promotion Through Environmental Design is a concept that was developed by researchers at the University of Michigan’s Prevention Research Center. These programs play a crucial role in addressing the negative effects of the Flint water crisis. By focusing on improving community safety, building healthier environments, and promoting a sense of community, these interventions can help tackle the social and environmental factors that have contributed to the crisis. Strengthening community safety measures can rebuild trust and confidence among residents, ensuring their well-being and minimizing potential risks. Improving water infrastructure and addressing lead contamination directly enhance the quality and safety of drinking water in healthier built environments. Additionally, promoting a sense of community fosters resilience, collaboration, and engagement among residents, facilitating collective efforts to overcome the challenges posed by the crisis. HPTED provides a comprehensive approach that considers the intersection of health, environment, and community, offering valuable strategies to promote long-term recovery and well-being in Flint.
This project is set to study the effects of environmental design activities in Flint, Michigan beyond the contaminated water. This specific project will investigate the above activities’ impact on neighborhood safety, health, and connectedness. Some examples of HPTED include:
Neighborhood revitalization: Transforming vacant lots or abandoned buildings into community gardens, parks, or recreational areas to promote social interaction and physical activity.
Walkability and active transportation: Designing pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, including sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes, to encourage walking and cycling as modes of transportation, leading to improved health and reduced reliance on cars.
Green infrastructure: Integrating nature-based solutions like green roofs, rain gardens, and urban forests to mitigate environmental impacts, improve air and water quality, and offer green spaces for community enjoyment.
Accessible and safe water sources: Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water by addressing water infrastructure issues and promoting water quality testing and monitoring.
Social cohesion and community engagement: Facilitating community events, workshops, and collaborative initiatives that foster social connections, civic participation, and a sense of belonging.
HPTED adapts the evidence-based approach of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) by integrating principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. CPTED has emerged over the last 30 years as the umbrella term for environmental interventions aimed at reducing crime and the fear of crime. The primary objective is to actively engage communities facing limited access to health-promoting resources, empowering them to initiate positive transformations within their neighborhoods. By repurposing available resources and facilitating activities that foster healthy lifestyles, the project seeks to promote overall health and well-being. Its overarching goals encompass supporting existing community endeavors, improving sustainability, and establishing an evidence base to enhance the health of the Flint community.
Understanding the science of HPTED proposals is crucial, as it offers valuable strategies for creating healthier built environments and enhancing community well-being on a global scale. By incorporating principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion, HPTED provides avenues to improve access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and sustainable infrastructure. Furthermore, this concept promotes community engagement in environmental health initiatives, leading to improved global health outcomes.
