From Lecture Halls to Living Systems: Prioritising Planetary Health through Public Health Education in a Time of Turbulence

Abstract

<jats:p>Planetary health is a relatively new concept in health sciences. Although there are natural synergies between public health and planetary health, to date little has been written regarding the specific ways in which public health tertiary education might prioritise the teaching of planetary health within its curricular. In this discussion paper, we begin with an overview of the origins of planetary health and how it has been taken up by the health professions. We then move the discussion to consider how it might fit with a public health education agenda, and existing concepts and issues with respect to planetary health. Drawing on the literature and an overview of existing planetary health tertiary education and evaluation, we propose ways in which planetary health can be prioritised in the delivery of public health tertiary education, particularly within the context of Aotearoa New Zealand, to contribute to the health and well-being of both people and the planet. </jats:p>