PRACTICAL IMPLEMENTATION
The first of its kind, a guide effectively communicating the urgent need for change while empowering us to foster positive transformation for the well-being of all life on Earth.
Our planet faces increasing environmental pressures, threatening the systems that sustain life. The Planetary Health Roadmap provides guidance for creating a resilient future, offering actionable steps for a variety of stakeholders in any region of the world.
Introducing the Planetary Health Roadmap and Action Plan – a groundbreaking resource developed by over 100 members and representatives of the global Planetary Health community to empower individuals, communities, and organizations to drive meaningful societal shift. This document is a framework and primer for understanding the complex challenges we are actively facing and offers clear, concrete strategies for addressing them head-on, at all levels.
The inextricable link between human well-being and the vitality of our Earth’s natural systems hangs in a delicate balance. It is time for us to unite, guided by the principles of the field and movement of Planetary Health, to forge a path towards a vibrant and equitable future for all.
Each of us, regardless of our background or expertise, can recognize our shared responsibility in safeguarding the health of our planet and the life upon it. As you explore this guide, you will find not only information but inspiration and tastes of immense opportunity. Join us on this journey. Read the Planetary Health Roadmap and Action Plan, engage with its principles, and let it ignite your passion.
TAKEAWAY 1:
The Planetary Health Roadmap encourages breaking down silos and fostering cooperation across diverse fields, including health, environment, education, business, and governance, to develop integrated solutions.
TAKEAWAY 2:
The guide emphasizes the importance of elevating and learning from the wisdom of Indigenous communities, marginalized groups, and youth in the pursuit of Planetary Health, ensuring inclusion and equity.
TAKEAWAY 3:
The Roadmap and Action Plan seeks to inspire individuals, communities, and organizations to recognize their role in safeguarding the health of the planet and its inhabitants, catalyzing a movement driven by collective action.
TAKEAWAY 4:
This path encourages the exploration of novel approaches, technologies, and strategies to address the complex challenges we face, promoting a spirit of continuous learning and improvement.
This chapter explores the fundamental concept of Planetary Health, emphasizing the crucial interdependence between human health and Earth’s natural systems. It highlights why this perspective is essential for understanding current global health challenges.
Chapter 2 provides a concise historical overview, detailing the evolution of the Planetary Health movement, including the establishment of the Planetary Health Alliance and the significance of the 2021 São Paulo Declaration.
This chapter articulates the urgent necessity for a Planetary Health Roadmap. It underscores the importance of strategic planning in navigating toward a healthier future, addressing both environmental and human health crises.
Chapter 4 identifies three critical domains for action. It outlines specific, actionable steps that practitioners, policymakers, educators, and the public can take to foster change and improve Planetary Health outcomes.
This chapter offers strategies for effectively communicating the principles and importance of Planetary Health across various stakeholder groups. It aims to enhance understanding and inspire collective action toward shared goals.
The final chapter presents a clear and structured Planetary Health Action Plan that asks stakeholders to mobilize around key actions across six areas:
These three supplements provide resources on communications, education, and governance for advancing Planetary Health. The appendices offer guidance, case studies, frameworks, and tools to support individuals and organizations in their efforts.
The Planetary Health Roadmap serves as both a guide and a call to action for individuals and organizations to work collaboratively towards a sustainable future, integrating Planetary Health into everyday practices and decision-making processes.
As a global community, we commit to implementing these actions and reporting progress at the next Planetary Health Annual Meeting, October 7-10, 2025. Members of our network are engaging in working groups focusing on each of the six action areas.
The time for action is now. Let us confront reality, armed with evidence and united in purpose. The Planetary Health Roadmap is our compass, guiding us towards a healthy, resilient planet for all.
