Making environmental health data accessible to everyone

What is the problem?

Environmental public health data are often difficult to explain in plain language. Public health and environmental professionals use technical terms to describe such data. But if information is too hard to understand, people will not use South Carolina's Tracking Network.

What did Tracking do?

South Carolina's Environmental Public Health Tracking Program is working toward showing and describing data simply. For example, a section of each topic area on the Web site will use everyday examples to describe complex scientific concepts.

Improved public health

People are more likely to use easy-to-understand information, tools, and data. Armed with knowledge, people can make better decisions about reducing health risk and improving overall health. Encouraging use of the state tracking network may increase awareness about environmental health issues. It might also help to explain why the state needs to take certain actions to protect the environment.

Sharing information about the coastal environment

What is the problem?

South Carolina's large, densely populated coastal area attracts tourists year round. Currently, no one resource informs people about all coastal area issues such as beach conditions and closures.

What did Tracking do?

The South Carolina Tracking Program partnered with state and federal agencies to develop a Coastal Environment Web page. This Web page is now a content area on South Carolina's EPHT Web site.

Improved public health

Residents and visitors to South Carolina's coastal area now have access to information such as:

• Real-time weather,
• Environmental advisories and closures,
• Beach conditions, and
• Marine animal diseases.

This information helps residents and visitors better understand how the state's coastal environment may affect travel plans and health.

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