Benefit of Physical Activity Initiatives for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
Date
Authors
Hinckson, Erica
Reis, Rodrigo
Romanello, Marina
Ding, Ding
Adelekan, Ibidun
Favarão Leão, Ana Luiza
Ballard, Ellis
Benmarhnia, Tarik
Hogg, Robert
Sallis, James F
Supervisor
Item type
Journal Article
Degree name
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Abstract
Addressing today’s public health challenges requires learning from past successes while adapting to emerging threats. Here we focus on two pressing, interconnected issues: physical inactivity and climate change. We present the Physical Activity and Climate Change (PACC) model, a conceptual framework illustrating how well-designed physical activity initiatives can simultaneously contribute to climate mitigation, support adaptation, and promote health and equity. We provide insights on Indigenous knowledge and contemporary sport, re-imagined urban design, behavioural and equity synergies, and opportunities to develop co-benefit metrics, innovative governance models and cross-sector solutions. We emphasize the need for systems-based, co-designed approaches that prioritize environmental sustainability, health equity and cultural relevance while avoiding unintended consequences. Aligning physical activity and climate change agendas is more powerful than addressing them separately, offering greater combined benefits for population and environmental health. The PACC model offers a practical foundation for advancing integrated, equitable and sustainable solutions.Description
Keywords
4101 Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation, 41 Environmental Sciences, 4206 Public Health, 42 Health Sciences, Physical Activity, Health Disparities and Racial or Ethnic Minority Health Research, Prevention, Health Disparities, Generic health relevance, 13 Climate Action
Source
Nature Health, ISSN: 3005-0693 (Print); 3005-0693 (Online), Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 1(3), 300-315. doi: 10.1038/s44360-026-00057-6
Publisher's version
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