Dentist at ASRI examine a patient
Stephanie Gee/ASRI
Planetary Health
Planetary health examines the ways in which human health is impacted by human-caused disruptions to the Earth’s natural systems. Within that definition is a feedback loop. Anthropogenic environmental changes affect the health of people. At the same time, the way people interact with the natural environment is influenced by their physical, social, and mental well-being and their economic security. This loop reiterates the interconnectedness of human health and environmental systems. It introduces the possibility of designing win-win planetary health solutions that recognize that a change in one system can trigger positive shifts within another. Ecological levers for public health are interventions in the ecosystem or conservation space that have positive outcomes for human health.
ASRI’s planetary health intervention was done by creating a dual conservation-health program that is able to improve human health and reduce deforestation of rainforests.
Intensifying community-designed planetary health interventions during the Covid-19 pandemic has enhanced community resilience and prepared people for the future shocks of climate change. We have not just focused on an emergency infectious disease response for communities, but have also invested in a stimulus package for the rainforests to ensure tandem wellbeing and resilience. Increasing food security will have both environmental and human health impacts. Reforestation will decrease zoonotic transfer of diseases and improve ecosystem integrity, which will support human health.