Planetary Health
What is Planetary Health?
Planetary Health is a holistic concept that focuses on the interconnectedness of human and planetary health. It is based on the understanding that global environmental changes - such as climate change, loss of biodiversity and pollution of air, soil and water - have a direct impact on the well-being and health of people around the world. At the same time, scientific studies show that sustainable lifestyles and economic practices not only protect the environment but also have a positive impact on human health.
This interdisciplinary field of research and action aims to develop solutions that reduce environmental impact while taking into account medical aspects. The aim is to achieve a balance that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the livelihoods of future generations. Planetary health requires rethinking at all levels: from global policies and regional economic systems to individual behaviour. Only through collective action can we meet the challenges of our time and ensure a healthy, sustainable future for people and planet.
Historical context and development
The concept of planetary health emerged from the recognition that human health is inextricably linked to the state of the Earth. As early as the 1970s, environmental scientists highlighted the links between ecological crises and human well-being. The Club of Rome's Limits to Growth report was the first to outline how overexploitation of natural resources threatened humanity's long-term survival.
An important milestone was reached in 2015 with the establishment of the Lancet Commission on Planetary Health, which brought the concept into the scientific and political debate. This Commission emphasised that ongoing environmental changes - from climate change to biodiversity loss - cannot be considered in isolation, but are directly linked to human health. Since then, Planetary Health has been promoted as a forward-looking concept to better understand the complex interactions between humans and nature and to develop solutions together.
Planetary Health and Climate Change
The climate crisis is one of the greatest threats to human and planetary health. Rising temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events and rising sea levels threaten not only the stability of our ecosystems but also the livelihoods of billions of people. Climate-related phenomena such as heat waves, floods and droughts lead to increased disease, food shortages and migration. In addition, respiratory diseases caused by air pollution and changing allergens are on the rise.
Effective climate action is therefore also active health action. Switching to sustainable energy sources, protecting forests and promoting climate-friendly agriculture not only help to limit global warming, but also create healthier living conditions for humans and animals. The principle of planetary health underlines the need to integrate climate action into global health strategies and to implement them together.
Strategies to promote Planetary Health
Global initiatives and agreements
Global initiatives and agreements play a critical role in advancing planetary health. A key instrument is the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, in which nations committed to limiting global warming to well below 2°C and to building resilience to climate impacts. This agreement links climate action with securing human livelihoods.Another example is the work of the Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change, a research initiative that regularly publishes reports on the health impacts of climate change and recommends policy responses. Similarly, the World Health Organization (WHO) is promoting the integration of health into climate policy through its Action Plan for Climate and Health.
In addition, platforms such as the Planetary Health Alliance foster collaboration between science, policy and civil society to develop innovative solutions. These initiatives highlight the need for joint efforts to sustainably promote both human and planetary health.
Planetary Health in the Food Sector
Food companies play a key role in promoting planetary health through their direct impact on the environment, health and social structures. Measures such as supporting sustainable agriculture, reducing pesticide use and protecting biodiversity are essential. Food manufacturers can also focus on regional and seasonal ingredients to minimise transport distances and carbon emissions.Another important approach is to reduce food waste - through optimised supply chains, innovative packaging solutions and the promotion of zero waste strategies. Retailers can shift their product ranges towards plant-based options to reduce the resource-intensive meat industry, while encouraging customers to make sustainable choices through transparent information. Certifications such as organic or fair trade labels signal environmentally and socially responsible standards. These measures can also be applied in the foodservice industry to promote sustainability. Such strategies contribute not only to ecological health and resource conservation, but also to human health and social justice.
Planetary Health for Individuals
Individuals can make an important contribution to planetary health by making conscious choices in their daily lives. One key approach is the Planetary Health Diet, a diet based on plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains, while reducing the consumption of animal products. This diet not only conserves resources and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, but also improves human health by reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Consumers can also opt for local and seasonal produce, avoid food waste and choose sustainably produced goods. Using environmentally friendly means of transport such as bicycles, public transport or carpooling further reduces emissions.
Mindful consumption, conserving energy at home and supporting organisations working to protect the climate and health reinforce the principles of Planetary Health. Together, many small steps can make a big difference.