Coordinating efforts across different government departments towards a common goal brings great benefits but is not always easy.

However, the Ministry of Health is joining hands with the Water Resources and Environment Administration to increase environmental understanding among the public.

Aware of the important links between human health and the environment, the ministry has turned to teamwork to develop a response

The result is more partnerships that bring knowledge bases together.

The ministry plans to work closely with the WREA to publicise the issue while making concrete steps through joint projects

They plan to work together to share knowledge and resources at conferences on environmental issues, both in Laos and overseas.

Additionally, they will engage with other public sector bodies and administrations from central to local levels to heighten community awareness.

Director General of the Department of Hygiene and Prevention Dr Douangchan Keoasa said World Environment Day on June 5 provided a great opportunity and stage to publicise and spread understanding of environmental issues.

Motivating people to think about the environment and conservation in their everyday lives remained the challenge.

Business had a huge role to play in the maintenance of a healthy environment by following laws and regulations, promoting green products and lifestyle choices and minimising the environmental impact of their activities.

The ministry sought close cooperation from factory operators as well as from the mining and hydropower sectors.

This cooperation would ensure good health for people and the environment, Dr Douangchan said.

“A good environment means good health and living conditions.”

The Ministry of Health is also is in consultation with 25th SEA Games organising subcommittees to develop strategies for the prevention, containment and treatment of an outbreak of a contagious disease such as influenza.

Measures to educate against the spread of dengue fever are also planned.

The importance of hygiene especially regarding food and drink preparation would be stressed.