Planetary health, human well-being and environmental justice
ModulesPlanetary health, human well-being and environmental justice
This introductory micromodule explores the concept of Planetary Health as a framework linking human well-being with the state of natural systems. Through an animated video and guided reflection, participants will examine how human activities have breached planetary boundaries, exacerbating health inequalities and environmental injustices. The module fosters ethical awareness and encourages learners to consider sustainability as a foundational principle of responsible research and innovation.
By the end of the module, participants should be able to:
Explain how environmental degradation affects human health through the framework of planetary boundaries and apply the principle of planetary health to reflect on unequal health burdens and propose equitable responses.
Participants should also be able to:
- Identify the disproportionate effects of climate change on different populations.
- Reflect on the ethical implications of environmental injustices.
- Relate the concept of planetary health to research responsibilities.
Exploring planetary health
In this activity we explore planetary health through animation
What do we mean by “justice” in planetary health?
In the context of planetary health, justice means recognising that the impacts of environmental degradation and climate change are not distributed equally. While some communities contribute more to these problems, often through overconsumption or industrial activity, others (especially low-income or marginalised groups) bear the brunt of the consequences.
Justice asks us to reflect on questions such as:
- Who benefits from current systems?
- Who is most affected by environmental and health harms?
- Whose voices are included or excluded from solutions?
Key concepts in planetary health
Match the key concepts in planetary health to their descriptions.
Match the key planetary health concepts with their descriptions
What can we do to mitigate the risk, adapt, and restore planetary health?
Planetary health is not only a diagnostic concept but also a call to action. You will now explore concrete pathways on mitigation, adaptation, and restoration, as well as the ethical and justice-oriented shifts required to reframe how we promote health and well-being.
