Planetary health posits a fundamental connection between human well-being and the health of our planet: improving one inherently benefits the other. This article examines the evolution of planetary health and the ways that daily ecological decisions can influence our health in both immediate and long-term contexts.
Understanding Planetary Health
The phrase “planetary health” was first introduced in 2015 by The Rockefeller Foundation—Lancet Commission. Their Executive Summary noted that, while humanity is experiencing better health outcomes than ever before, with increased life expectancy and decreased poverty rates, these improvements have often come at the expense of natural resources.
This emerging interdisciplinary field aims to tackle the challenges that arise at the intersection of health, environmental concerns, agriculture, and trade, rapidly gaining traction since its establishment.
The United Nations encapsulates the essence of planetary health by stating: “… Planetary Health acknowledges that the well-being of humans and our planet are closely intertwined, and that the sustainability of our civilization hinges on both human health, thriving ecosystems, and the prudent management of our resources.”
The Advancement of Planetary Health
Planetary health is increasingly becoming the focal point across a spectrum of new academic journals, degree programs, and various initiatives, both national and global.
The Planetary Health Alliance serves as a key organization in this domain, comprising a diverse group of universities, NGOs, research institutions, and government bodies from more than 64 countries worldwide.
From 2019 to 2021, they created an educational framework designed to elucidate the connections among environmental, societal, and health crises. Carlos A. Faerron Guzman, the lead author of the study, notes that this framework addresses gaps in higher education pertaining to planetary health and enhances our understanding of the challenges we face and solutions available.
Traditionally understood through a lens of human dominance over nature, the concept of planetary health reframes this relationship by emphasizing our integration within and dependence on the natural world, according to Guzman.
This is just the beginning of grasping how human and planetary health are interdependent. The framework also highlights issues of equity and social justice.
“We must recognize that shifts in the earth’s ecosystems do not affect all populations equally,” Guzman says. Those with greater financial resources generally experience the most favorable outcomes in terms of both environmental health and personal well-being.
Bringing the Framework to Life
There are multiple effective ways to enhance both your own health and the well-being of our planet.
Adopt a Plant-Based Diet
Switching to a vegetarian diet can lead to numerous health advantages, including lower risks of type 2 diabetes, obesity, and coronary heart disease, alongside increased life expectancy. Moreover, animal-based products, particularly meat and dairy, require significantly more resources and have a larger environmental footprint than most plant-based options.
Engage with Nature
Exposure to nature is recognized for its beneficial effects on both mental and physical health. Activities like Guided Nature Therapy and Forest Therapy, which involve practices such as gazing at water, befriending trees, and expressing gratitude, have gained popularity.
You can contribute to the preservation and restoration of natural habitats—actions that help combat air pollution and sequester carbon—by participating in conservation initiatives, beach cleanups, tree planting, or litter collection.
Make Thoughtful Purchasing Decisions
A recent research study linked reduced consumption levels to enhanced personal well-being and decreased psychological stress, while buying “eco-friendly” items did not show a positive correlation with consumer happiness. To foster a sense of well-being, consider repairing or repurposing items, purchasing second-hand goods, or using Olio, an app that facilitates sharing surplus food and household products.
Fostering Awareness
Being mindful of our surroundings is also part of caring for our planet. It’s crucial to examine issues and their impacts through a lens of equity and social justice, striving for solutions that do not impose burdens disproportionately on any single group.
Guzman emphasizes the importance of observing the natural world around us and noticing ongoing environmental changes. For instance, consider tracing the origins of your food or reflect on historical dietary practices and how contemporary food systems have evolved, while also contemplating the effects of climate change on both you and your community.
