Conversations on Planetary Health: Planetary Health 101

Planetary health is a nascent concept focused on the interdependence of human health, animal health, and the health of the environment. Defined as “the health of human civilization and the state of the natural systems on which it depends, planetary health calls urgent attention to the extensive degradation of our planet for human advancement. The concept focuses on reversing this trend by better balancing human needs with the preservation of the Earth to sustain the health and well-being of future generations. To accomplish this will require a multidisciplinary, cross-sector, and transborder approach to change mindsets and behaviors at every level, from global to local.

While the concept of planetary health is unique, it builds on and unites many similar concepts that address the intersections between health and the environment.

• EcoHealth
• Ecosystem services (biodiversity and health)
• Environmental Health
• GEOHealth (Global Environmental and Occupational Health)
• One Health
• Population Health and Environment