Jadotte Y, Levy C, Tallon LA, Phillips L, Caron R. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Environmental Health Workforce: Mapping the Literature and Moving Toward Liberation.
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INSIGHTS 2023;
17:11786302231175802. [PMID:
37229358 PMCID:
PMC10204044 DOI:
10.1177/11786302231175802]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Introduction
Diversity, equity, and inclusion, also known as DEI, is an essential topic being discussed across society. The field of environmental health (EH) should certainly not be excluded from the conversation.
Objective
The purpose of this mini-review was to map the literature and identify gaps on the topic of DEI in the EH workforce.
Methods
A rapid scoping review was conducted using standard synthesis science methods to search and map the published literature. All study titles, abstracts, and full texts were screened by 2 independent reviewers among the authorship team.
Results
The search strategy yielded 179 English language papers. Of those, 37 met all inclusion criteria after full text screening. Overall, the majority of the articles had weak or moderate DEI engagement and only 3 articles had strong DEI engagement.
Discussion
There is a significant need for additional research in this realm. Future studies should explicitly focus on workforce issues, and attempt to achieve the highest level of the evidence possible for this field.
Conclusion
Although DEI initiatives are a step in the right direction, the current evidence suggests that inclusivity and liberation may prove to be more impactful and meaningful constructs to fully advance equity in the EH workforce.
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