Skip Global navigation and goto content

It's a New Day in Public Health.

The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

Skip MegaMenu and goto content
Megamenu requires javascript to be enabled in your browser.
Left navigation requires javascript to be enabled in your browser.

Florida's Environmental Hazards

Contact: Florida Health

Image of Aquatic toxins with man trying to clean it upAquatic Toxins
Men cleaning up a chemical spill in HAZMAT suitsChemical Spills
Man standing in hazardous waste in a HAZMAT suit Hazardous Waste
Mold spores in a petri dish Mold and Fungus

Interesting Florida Fact

The ecosystems in Florida are intricately linked to our health. Agricultural runoff and urban pollutants can travel from fields to waterways, affecting both aquatic life and human well-being.


Environmental Health Hazards in Florida

Florida's diverse ecosystems and dynamic industrial landscape create a complex web of environmental challenges that impact public health. The state's warm, humid climate not only supports vibrant natural beauty but also fosters conditions that can lead to mold growth, chemical spills, and hazardous waste incidents. This guide is organized into dropdown sections that delve into each hazard, offering insights into health impacts, prevention strategies, and trusted resources.

Explore the sections below to gain a comprehensive understanding of these issues and learn practical steps to safeguard your well-being and that of your community.

  • Mold & Fungal Growth
  • Chemical Spills
  • Hazardous Waste
  • Additional Environmental Challenges
  • Staying Informed & Prepared
  • Trusted Resources

Florida’s subtropical conditions—with high humidity, frequent rains, and occasional flooding—create an ideal environment for mold and fungal proliferation. When left unchecked, these organisms can compromise indoor air quality and trigger a range of health issues.

  • Health Impacts:
    Exposure to mold spores may cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and exacerbate conditions such as asthma, particularly among vulnerable populations.

  • Prevention & Remediation:
    Prompt repair of water damage, ensuring proper ventilation, and regular cleaning are crucial to reducing mold growth. For more detailed guidance, refer to our dedicated mold and fungus page or consult the CDC’s guidelines on mold safety.

Florida’s busy ports, extensive transportation networks, and industrial activities increase the likelihood of chemical spills. Such incidents can occur suddenly and have both immediate and long-lasting effects on the environment and public health.

  • Understanding the Risks:
    Accidental chemical releases can contaminate air, water, and soil, posing significant health risks to communities and ecosystems.

  • Response & Safety Measures:
    Local and state agencies, in collaboration with federal partners, monitor chemical spill incidents, issue timely warnings, and coordinate cleanup operations. For comprehensive information, consult the EPA’s Emergency Response resources.

In addition to accidental chemical spills, Florida faces ongoing challenges related to the management and disposal of hazardous waste. Mismanaged hazardous materials can lead to persistent contamination of soil, water, and air, with far-reaching impacts on health and the environment.

  • Understanding Hazardous Waste:
    Hazardous waste consists of materials that pose serious risks if not properly handled. Improper disposal or accidental release can result in widespread contamination and long-term health issues.

  • Proper Management & Cleanup:
    Adhering to strict regulatory guidelines and coordinated response efforts is essential for the safe management of hazardous waste. Local agencies, supported by federal oversight, work diligently to ensure that hazardous waste is contained, treated, and disposed of in a manner that protects both people and the environment.

Beyond mold, chemical spills, and hazardous waste, Florida contends with broader environmental issues that further affect public health:

  • Pollution & Debris:
    Industrial emissions, urban runoff, and marine debris can degrade air and water quality. Pollutants from vehicles, factories, and agricultural activities—along with coastal waste—present ongoing challenges for ecosystems and human well-being.

  • Climate-Driven Changes:
    Shifts in weather patterns, rising temperatures, and increasing sea levels intensify environmental exposures. These changes can lead to more frequent flooding, extended dry spells, and variable air quality, compounding other health challenges.

Knowledge is the first step in mitigating environmental health risks. Here are some key strategies:

  • Monitor Trusted Sources:
    Keep informed with real-time updates from the EPA, CDC, and NOAA.

  • Follow Local Guidelines:
    In the event of a chemical spill, hazardous waste incident, or other environmental emergency, adhere to instructions from local emergency management agencies.

  • Maintain Your Environment:
    Regular building maintenance, prompt water damage repair, and proper ventilation are essential for minimizing hazards such as mold growth and other environmental threats.

For further information on Florida’s environmental challenges and best practices for public health safety, refer to these reliable sources:

 


Your Role in a Healthier Florida

Protecting yourself from Florida’s environmental hazards means staying informed and taking action. Each section of this guide breaks down the risks—from mold growth and chemical spills to hazardous waste and other issues—in clear, simple terms. By learning about these challenges and using trusted resources, you can help keep yourself, your family, and your community safe. As you explore the dropdown sections, remember that staying alert and following local guidelines are key steps toward a healthier, safer Florida for everyone.

Note: The links and content provided on this page are for your convenience and informational purposes. The Florida Department of Health (DOH) doesn't endorse or approve any products, services, or opinions. We're not responsible for the content or accuracy of external sites. If you have questions, please reach out to the external site directly.