One planet, two worlds and a shared goal towards sustainable future

TEACH-project deepens the understanding of how planetary phenomena affect populations in global south and north. By integrating perspectives from different ecological and temperate regions, shared learning and understanding is enabled. To secure a healthy planet and people in the future, it is essential to become aware of planetary health challenges.

During the past couple of years TEACH-project has worked to advance competencies in planetary health of both Finnish and Indonesian Master’s level students. Despite these two countries differing geographically, culturally and climatologically, they both encounter the same planetary challenges. These challenges, such as climate change, are currently disrupting the delicate balance between human health and natural ecosystems and challenging sustainability in multiple ways.

Shifting habitats and health challenges

Finland’s annual average temperature has risen by about two degrees since the 1880s and the maximum snow cover thickness has decreased in both Southern and Western Finland. This is altering agricultural conditions, presenting both benefits and challenges to forestry, fisheries, reindeer herding, and tourism.

Also the natural environment is undergoing significant changes due to climate change. For example, new southern animal, plant and insect species are appearing northwards, while traditional northern species are becoming endangered. The Baltic Sea is also warming and becoming less salty, affecting marine life.

It is crucial to address planetary health challenges and innovate sustainable solutions

In addition to nature, also people are affected. Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, particularly affect the elderly and people with lower income levels. Due to limited resources for adaptation, these groups are vulnerable to experience adverse impacts of climate change. For example in Indonesia diseases like dengue, pneumonia and breathing problems are becoming more common.

In 2021, major floods in South Kalimantan forced over 100,000 people to leave their homes, and many got sick with diseases like diarrhea from dirty water. To ensure a healthy planet and nature for both current and future generations, it is crucial to address planetary health challenges and innovate sustainable solutions for them.

Solutions to Tackle Climate Related Health Issues

In Finland, vulnerable groups are particularly at risk, and the impact towards agriculture and livelihoods highlights the need for sustainable adaptation. Meanwhile, in Indonesia, the rise in hydrometeorological disasters and health issues like respiratory infections and waterborne diseases underline the urgent need for regional cooperation and integrated solutions to mitigate climate-related crises. The interconnectedness of environmental and human well-being in both countries stress the importance of collective, long-term action to protect the planet and its inhabitants.

By training healthcare professionals in planetary health, they can highlight the health impacts of climate change and push for policies prioritizing human and environmental well-being. This approach ensures that healthcare providers have the knowledge of the connection between environmental and human health to reduce health risks associated with climate change and advocate for sustainable practices.

 

Authors:

Eveliina Valtonen
Health Promotion student
Master School, Turku UAS

Sofiyulloh
Master of Public Health Student
Universitas Indonesia

Tuuli Lahti
Degree programme leader & principal lecturer
Master School, Turku UAS