Assessing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the US Environmental Health Workforce: Challenges and Opportunities

Environmental health (EH) professionals play a critical role in the US public health workforce, performing a wide range of duties aimed at safeguarding community health. As the US population diversifies, the EH workforce needs to be culturally competent and reflective of this diversity. Current data show a predominantly White EH workforce, which may hinder the effectiveness and equity of public health interventions.

The aims of this study were to assess EH professionals' perceptions of organizational commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), identify influencing factors, and examine the relationship between these perceptions and job satisfaction, engagement, and retention.

This study utilized data from the 2021 Public Health Workforce Interests and Needs Survey (PH WINS), targeting 137 447 public health workers with a response rate of 35% (n = 44 732). The survey included Likert scale questions to measure workplace satisfaction, awareness of DEI concepts, confidence in addressing DEI issues, and perceptions of organizational effectiveness in DEI.

Significant demographic disparities between BIPOC and White EH workers were identified. BIPOC workers were more prevalent in lower salary brackets and non-permanent roles, while White workers dominated supervisory and executive positions. Workplace satisfaction was similar across groups, but BIPOC workers reported lower pay satisfaction and job security. Awareness of DEI concepts was high among both groups, but BIPOC workers showed greater confidence in addressing health equity and structural racism. Perceptions of organizational effectiveness in DEI varied, with BIPOC workers perceiving a lower organizational commitment to DEI.

These findings underscore the need for targeted DEI training, equitable workplace policies, and an inclusive organizational culture. Longitudinal research is recommended to track DEI progress and its impact on public health outcomes. Addressing DEI disparities within the EH workforce is critical for enhancing public health interventions and outcomes.