Evidences that show that the contemporary society is going through an intense environmental crisis are more and more shocking. As contemporary subjects, we suffer the impact of such environmental problems, but not necessarily do we take actions in order to minimize this environment impact. This text aims to problematize the relation between the environment issues and the area of health, reviewing conceptual bases that may make it possible for health and nursing professionals to reflect about the topic and their role in the process of environmental preservation, especially in an attempt to highlight the legacy left by Florence Nightingale. It is necessary a resumption of the legacy of Florence Nightingale in a way to qualify the environmental dimension as indispensable for the process of health assistance, not only in terms of the promotion of health and quality of life, but also to promote the minimization of the environmental impact that comes with the work in the health area. Ethical reflection and educative approach are fundamental points in this process.
Nursing; Environment; Ecology; Workers; Ethics