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The week ending March 28, 2025

Second WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health Concludes with Major Commitments

On March 28, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded its Second Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health. The conference brought together over 700 participants from 100 countries, including government representatives, UN agencies, civil society, scientists, and health societies, to accelerate action on air pollution and public health. A shared goal to reduce health impacts by 50% by 2040 was agreed upon, aiming to save millions of lives annually. New funding pledges and policies were also proposed as part of the commitments. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized the urgency of moving from commitments to bold actions, highlighting the need for financial investment in sustainable solutions, technical enforcement of WHO global air quality guidelines, and social commitment to protect vulnerable populations in polluted regions.

Stanford Global Health Seed Grants Call for Proposals

Stanford University’s Center for Innovation in Global Health announced a call for proposals for the 2025 Stanford Global Health Seed Grants. The program encourages the development of innovative solutions to global health and planetary health challenges, supporting scientific and clinical research, implementation science, and the development of new healthcare innovations or delivery methods. The application deadline was March 28, 2025, at 11:59 PM.

10th Anniversary of the Planetary Health Alliance: In 2025, the Planetary Health Alliance (PHA) commemorates a decade since its inception. Over the past ten years, PHA has expanded to include approximately 500 member organizations spanning academia, policy, healthcare, and civil society. This milestone underscores the increasing recognition of the vital link between human health and the health of Earth’s systems.

Educational Initiatives:

• Spring 2025 CHI Speaker Series: The Center for Health Informatics at the University of Illinois is hosting a speaker series titled “Examining Environmental Impacts on Health.” This series brings together researchers to discuss how environmental factors, such as air and water quality and weather patterns, affect human health, emphasizing the intricate relationship between environmental conditions and personal well-being.

03/21/25

Dietary Choices and Economic Benefits:

• Adherence to the Planetary Health Diet: A study published in Scientific Reports revealed that older adults in Iran who followed the Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI) reduced their dietary costs by 21%. This diet emphasizes sustainable and nutritious food choices, demonstrating that aligning personal health with environmental sustainability can also be economically advantageous.

Environmental Changes Impacting Health:

• Cryosphere Melt and Global Health: Recent observations indicate that the loss of ice and snow is affecting Earth’s albedo, the planet’s ability to reflect solar energy, thereby contributing to rising global temperatures. This environmental shift poses significant threats to planetary health, which in turn impacts human health through increased climate-related risks.

Mindfulness and Sustainability:

• Integrating Mindfulness for Health: Research from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health suggests that mindfulness practices not only enhance individual well-being by reducing stress and anxiety but also foster a greater sense of connection to the environment. This holistic approach underscores the synergy between personal health practices and planetary health outcomes.

Educational Initiatives:

• Stanford’s Center for Human and Planetary Health: Stanford University has launched a center dedicated to advancing solutions that improve both human health and environmental sustainability. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for interdisciplinary approaches to address the intertwined challenges of personal and planetary health.

03/19/25

AIIB’s 2025 Asian Infrastructure Finance Report

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) released its 2025 Asian Infrastructure Finance Report, titled “Infrastructure for Planetary Health.” The report emphasizes the critical need for infrastructure development that prioritizes health, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability. By aligning infrastructure projects with planetary health principles, the AIIB aims to protect both human well-being and the planet’s ecosystems.

Siemens Recognized for Advancing Smart Hospitals

Frost & Sullivan applauded Siemens for its leadership in supporting the evolution of smart hospitals. By integrating advanced technologies, Siemens enhances healthcare delivery efficiency and sustainability, thereby contributing to improved patient outcomes and reduced environmental impact.

Planetary Health Alliance’s 10th Anniversary Initiatives

The Planetary Health Alliance (PHA) marked its 10th anniversary by launching initiatives that accelerate action for planetary health. These efforts focus on transforming global health, environmental action, and education, underscoring the interconnectedness of human health and environmental stewardship.

03/18/25

Kiss the Ground’s 2025 Research Study

Kiss the Ground, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting regenerative agriculture and healthy soil, released its 2025 Research Study. The findings indicate a significant increase in public awareness of regenerative agriculture as a solution to health, water, and climate challenges, rising from 4% to 6.8% over the past 18 months. Despite this progress, the study reveals a substantial disconnect within the food system: only one-third of adults visited a farm or farmers market in the past year, and a mere 8% engaged with farmers about food production. Additionally, 58% of shoppers do not read food labels, and over half of those who do often find them confusing. These insights underscore the need for enhanced consumer education to bridge the gap between food production and consumption, emphasizing the role of regenerative agriculture in promoting both human and environmental health.

Planetary Health Challenge 2025

The Planetary Health Alliance highlighted the upcoming Planetary Health Challenge 2025, a global youth competition focused on innovative, transdisciplinary solutions to address freshwater scarcity. This initiative emphasizes the critical link between environmental sustainability and human health, encouraging young leaders to develop strategies that benefit both planetary and personal well-being.

03/17/25

Alzheimer’s Disease Linked to Air Pollution

Recent research from Stanford University suggests a potential link between air pollution and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The study indicates that exposure to polluted air may accelerate cognitive decline, emphasizing the critical need for environmental policies that protect both planetary and human health.

Microplastics and Human Health

Stanford researchers have also raised concerns about the impact of microplastics on human health. These tiny plastic particles, prevalent in various ecosystems, can enter the human body through ingestion or inhalation, potentially leading to adverse health effects. This underscores the importance of addressing plastic pollution to safeguard both environmental and personal health.

Record Levels of Heat-Related Deaths Due to Climate Crisis

A report from The Lancet Countdown reveals that 2023 experienced unprecedented health threats due to rapid climate change. Extreme heatwaves and wildfires led to record levels of heat-related deaths, food insecurity, and the spread of infectious diseases. The report documents a 167% increase in heat-related deaths among individuals over 65 compared to the 1990s, highlighting the urgent need for climate action to protect public health.

Urban Green Spaces and Noncommunicable Diseases

A recent article in Wired discusses the correlation between urban green spaces and reduced incidences of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, heart disease, and mental illness. Urban residents without access to green spaces have higher rates of NCDs, while those in greener areas enjoy better physical and mental health. This has prompted global commitments to increase urban green spaces by 2030, recognizing their role in promoting exercise, cleaner air, and reduced heat stress.

Planetary Health Diet and Reduced Mortality Risk

A study highlighted by Medical News Today links adherence to the Planetary Health Diet—a plant-forward diet emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes—to a 30% lower risk of premature death. This dietary approach not only benefits personal health but also supports environmental sustainability. 

03/14/25

Health and Climate Crisis in Florida

The warming climate continues to reshape Florida’s environment, with significant implications for public health. Rising temperatures and changing weather patterns are contributing to increased heat-related illnesses, the spread of vector-borne diseases, and respiratory issues due to declining air quality. These developments underscore the need for integrated approaches that address both environmental sustainability and human health.

EPA’s Rollback of Environmental Regulations

The Environmental Protection Agency announced the rollback of numerous environmental regulations, many of which have been instrumental in maintaining air quality and protecting public health. Experts warn that these policy changes could lead to deteriorating environmental conditions, adversely affecting respiratory health and exacerbating chronic diseases. This development highlights the critical link between environmental policies and health outcomes.

Nature’s Role in Alleviating Pain Amidst Climate Change

Exposure to green spaces has been shown to improve mental health, accelerate recovery, and alleviate pain in patients. However, climate change and human activities threaten these natural environments, potentially diminishing their therapeutic benefits. This underscores the importance of preserving natural spaces to maintain their positive impact on public health.

Closure of EPA Environmental Justice Offices

The Trump Administration announced plans to shut down all Environmental Justice offices within the EPA and eliminate over 30 regulations designed to protect public health and the environment. Senators Cory Booker and Tammy Duckworth expressed deep concern, emphasizing that these actions could disproportionately harm vulnerable communities and jeopardize both public health and the planet’s future.

03/13/25

Everyday Biomass Produces Drinking Water from Thin Air

Discarded food scraps, stray branches, seashells and many other natural materials are key ingredients in a new system that can pull drinkable water out of thin air developed by researchers from The University of Texas at Austin.

This new “molecularly functionalized biomass hydrogels” system can convert a wide range of natural products into sorbents, materials that absorb liquids. By combining these sorbents with mild heat, the researchers can harvest gallons of drinkable water out of the atmosphere, even in dry conditions.

Initiative sets sights on rewilding three New Zealand islands

Three New Zealand islands will join an international initiative to remove invasive species and restore native wildlife.

With the addition of Maukahuka (Auckland) Island, Rakiura (Stewart) Island and Chatham Island, the Island-Ocean Connection Challenge (IOCC) will have 20 ongoing projects aimed at restoring and rewilding 40 globally significant island-ocean ecosystems by 2030.

Abundant water from primordial supernovae at cosmic dawn

Primordial (or population III) supernovae were the first nucleosynthetic engines in the Universe, and they forged the heavy elements required for the later formation of planets and life. Water, in particular, is thought to be crucial to the cosmic origins of life as we understand it, and recent models have shown that water can form in low-metallicity gas like that present at high redshifts.

The bold plan to bring back Tasmanian devils across mainland Australia

Tasmanian devils are already being released inside predator-proof sanctuaries in New South Wales, and rewilding advocates believe they could suppress feral cats and foxes across the continent

Impact of Climate Change on Health

• Airborne Fungal Diseases: Climate change is facilitating the spread of fungal diseases like Valley fever beyond their traditional regions. In California, cases reached an all-time high in 2023. Conditions such as droughts followed by intense rainfall promote the growth and dissemination of the responsible fungus. Underdiagnosis remains a concern, leading to delayed treatments and severe health outcomes.
• Heat-Related Mortality: The Lancet Countdown’s 2024 report indicates that 2023 experienced unprecedented health threats due to rapid climate change. Extreme heatwaves, wildfires, and other climate-related events led to record levels of heat-related deaths, increased food insecurity, and the spread of infectious diseases. Notably, there was a 167% increase in heat-related deaths among individuals over 65 compared to the 1990s.

Dietary Choices and Environmental Impact

• Sustainable Vegan Diets: Research from Oxford University suggests that vegans aiming to reduce their environmental footprint should prioritize natural whole foods like beans, peas, and soybeans over heavily processed substitutes such as almond milk and lab-grown meats. Unprocessed legumes were found to be both nutritionally and environmentally beneficial, whereas some processed alternatives may have comparable emissions to traditional meat products.

Advancements in Planetary Health

• Educational Initiatives: Dr. Daniella Nolan, a junior doctor at Royal Hobart Hospital, has been awarded the 2025 Rio Tinto John Monash Scholarship to study public and planetary health in London. This field examines how natural and built environments influence human health, emphasizing the impacts of climate change. Dr. Nolan advocates for proactive urban design to safeguard public health, addressing issues like mental health, food security, and biodiversity.

03/12/25

Impact of Microplastics on Photosynthesis and Food Security

A study published on March 10, 2025, in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that microplastic pollution reduces photosynthesis in plants and algae by up to 12%. This decline could lead to annual food losses of 110–361 million tonnes of crops and up to 24 million tons of seafood, potentially placing an additional 400 million people at risk of starvation within two decades. This underscores the profound link between environmental pollution and human health outcomes.

Expert Insights on Climate Change and Health Inequities

On March 12, 2025, Inside Climate News featured insights from Arline Geronimus, an expert on “weathering,” discussing how climate change exacerbates chronic stress and health disparities among marginalized populations. Geronimus emphasizes that environmental stressors, intensified by climate change, can lead to adverse health effects, highlighting the intersection of environmental and personal health.

Call for Papers on Planetary Health and Infectious Diseases

The journal Open Forum Infectious Diseases has issued a call for papers focusing on the interplay between planetary health and infectious diseases. Anticipated for publication in early 2025, this initiative aims to explore how environmental changes influence the emergence and spread of infectious diseases, further illustrating the connection between planetary and personal health.

Community Initiatives Promoting Health and Sustainability

The University of Louisville’s Sustainability Council is hosting an event titled “HRtalks Wellness: Transportation Cycling for Personal & Planetary Health.” Scheduled for March 12, 2025, this event encourages cycling as a low-cost, pollution-free mode of transportation that benefits both personal health and the environment, demonstrating practical applications of planetary health principles.

03/11/25

Planetary Health

• Microplastics Impairing Plant Photosynthesis: A recent study reveals that microplastics are significantly reducing global food supplies by impairing plant photosynthesis. Estimated losses of staple crops like wheat, rice, and maize range from 4% to 14%, potentially placing an additional 400 million people at risk of starvation over the next twenty years. The study highlights that microplastics damage soils, block sunlight, carry toxic chemicals, and affect water and nutrient absorption in plants, reducing their chlorophyll levels.
• Global Air Pollution Levels: A report by IQAir indicates that only 17% of the world’s cities meet air pollution guidelines, with countries like Chad, Congo, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India having the dirtiest air. India alone accounts for six of the nine most polluted cities, with Byrnihat being the worst. Long-term exposure to polluted air can lead to serious health issues, such as respiratory illnesses, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer.

Personal Health

• Luke Combs’ Mental Health Disclosure: Country music star Luke Combs has revealed his struggle with a rare mental health condition called purely obsessional obsessive-compulsive disorder (Pure O). This condition causes debilitating and intrusive thoughts leading to significant stress. Combs has experienced this since he was 12 and recently endured a severe flare-up during a tour. He shared insights on managing the condition, emphasizing the importance of accepting the thoughts without giving them attention.
• Essential Nutrient Intake: Health experts are emphasizing the importance of ensuring proper intake of essential nutrients like Vitamin D, B12, and magnesium to boost immunity and prevent fatigue. While supplements can be necessary for certain conditions or lifestyles, obtaining these nutrients primarily from a well-balanced diet is recommended. Over-supplementation can lead to health issues, so doses should be carefully monitored.

03/10/25

Integration of Genomics into the NHS

The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is increasingly incorporating genetic testing into routine healthcare. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) recently approved four genomic tests targeting conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. While private healthcare providers like Bupa have swiftly adopted these advancements, the NHS is actively working to integrate these tests to enhance preventive care and early diagnosis, aiming to improve long-term health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.

Reforms to Address NHS Challenges

The NHS is undergoing significant reforms to tackle current challenges, including long waiting times and system inefficiencies. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has introduced a three-point plan focusing on reducing waiting times, transitioning from analogue to digital systems, and emphasizing community-based preventive care. The appointment of Sir Jim Mackey as interim CEO of NHS England underscores a commitment to these reforms. However, successful implementation will require public trust in digital transformations and community care initiatives.

Learning from Denmark’s Healthcare Model

The NHS is looking to Denmark’s healthcare system for inspiration as it reforms its own policies. Denmark’s approach includes community health initiatives, technological advancements, and a preventative approach to healthcare, leading to high survival rates and efficient service delivery. The UK’s health secretary, Wes Streeting, aims to implement similar changes, focusing on moving from hospital-based care to community-based, increasing digital healthcare solutions, and emphasizing prevention over treatment.

Emphasis on Planetary Health

The concept of planetary health, which examines the interconnections between human health and environmental sustainability, is gaining prominence. Health systems are increasingly recognizing the need to address environmental factors that impact health outcomes. This holistic approach advocates for sustainable practices within healthcare to promote both human and planetary well-being.

These developments highlight a concerted effort to enhance public health systems through technological innovation, systemic reform, and a broader understanding of health that encompasses environmental sustainability.

03/07/25

Advancements in Personal Health

• Innovations in Hearing Aid Technology: Experts have highlighted the top hearing aids for 2025, emphasizing brands like Phonak, Oticon, Starkey, Resound, and Signia. These devices offer advanced features such as Bluetooth streaming, smartphone integration, and adaptive sound processing, enhancing user experience and accessibility.
• Strategies for Enhanced Longevity: Dr. Frank Lipman, a pioneer in integrative medicine, has introduced cutting-edge strategies to boost longevity. His approach combines Western and Eastern medical practices, focusing on personalized treatments that address diet, exercise, stress management, sleep, and emotional health.

Advancements in Planetary Health

• Region-Specific Dietary Recommendations in China: In response to rising obesity rates, Chinese scientists have proposed region-specific diets aimed at improving health and conserving natural resources. The study advocates for a “Planetary Health Diet,” which emphasizes reduced red meat and dairy consumption, tailored to the unique needs of different regions within China.
• Comprehensive Health-Boosting Habits: A recent article outlines 44 habits designed to enhance overall well-being by 2025. Recommendations include spending time in nature, engaging in various physical activities, maintaining strong social connections, and practicing mindfulness techniques to reduce stress.

03/06/25

Personal Health

• 03/06/25  Women’s Health Goals for 2025: A recent survey of 2,000 women reveals a strong focus on achieving peak mental strength, with 58% aiming to reduce stress and anxiety. Other top health objectives include weight loss (43%), improved sleep quality (40%), and adopting healthier eating habits (36%). Additionally, increasing physical strength is a priority, though 43% have never engaged in weightlifting, often due to intimidation or lack of confidence.
• 03/06/25  Chronic Stress and Stroke Risk in Young Women: A new study indicates that chronic stress significantly elevates the risk of stroke among young women. Even moderate stress levels can have adverse effects, underscoring the importance of stress management for this demographic.
• 03/06/25  Memory Improvement Workshop: Dr. Wendy Hurwitz, an expert on stress, will conduct a session on memory enhancement techniques at the Berlin Senior Center on March 25 at 1 p.m. Interested individuals can register by calling 860-828-7006.

03/06/25 Planetary Health

• 03/06/25  Climate Action Convention Agenda: The “Our Planet, Our Health: 2025 Climate Action Convention” is scheduled for March 1-4, 2025, in Washington, DC, and online. This event aims to address the intersection of climate change and health, featuring keynote speakers like Victoria St. Martin, Senator Bill Frist, MD, and Heather Mizeur.
• 03/06/25  Asteroid 2025 DU2’s Close Approach: A 160-foot-wide asteroid, designated 2025 DU2, is set to pass Earth on March 6 at a speed of 62,650 km/h. The asteroid will maintain a safe distance of 542,000 km from our planet.

Planetary Health

03/05/25  Our Planet, Our Health: 2025 Climate Action Convention: From March 1-4, 2025, Washington, DC, hosted the “Our Planet, Our Health: 2025 Climate Action Convention,” one of the largest events focused on planetary health and climate action. The convention brought together health professionals and environmental experts to discuss strategies for a healthier, more sustainable future.

03/05/25  Business Engagement in Planetary Health: The World Economic Forum emphasized the importance of integrating planetary health into corporate strategies. By aligning business practices with environmental sustainability, companies can drive greater transparency, accountability, and comparability in their operations.

Personal Health

03/05/25  Measles Case Reported in Florida: Florida reported its first measles case of 2025, involving a high school student in South Florida. This incident underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent outbreaks.

03/05/25 Mental Health Awareness Campaign: Kate Cassidy appeared on Lorraine Kelly’s show, discussing the loss of her boyfriend, Liam Payne, and her involvement in a new mental health campaign. The initiative aims to destigmatize mental health discussions and encourages viewers to participate in activities symbolizing collective support for mental well-being.

03/05/25  Stem Cell Therapy Advancements: Recent clinical trials have demonstrated that an experimental stem cell therapy can reverse corneal damage, potentially restoring vision in affected individuals. This breakthrough offers hope for new treatments in regenerative medicine.

03/04/25  United Nations Appeals for Funds to Contain Uganda Ebola Outbreak

The United Nations has issued an urgent appeal for $11.2 million to support Uganda’s efforts in combating an Ebola outbreak that has resulted in two fatalities. The outbreak, declared in January in Kampala, involves the Sudan strain of Ebola, for which no approved vaccine exists. The funds aim to bolster response efforts from March to May across seven high-risk districts, aiming to swiftly contain the outbreak and mitigate its public health and socioeconomic impacts. Uganda’s health budget is under significant strain following cuts in U.S. foreign aid, underscoring the critical need for international support.

03/04/25  Our Planet, Our Health: 2025 Climate Action Convention Concludes

The “Our Planet, Our Health: 2025 Climate Action Convention,” one of the largest events focused on planetary health and climate action, concluded on March 4 in Washington, D.C. The convention brought together leaders, experts, and educators committed to advancing a healthier, more sustainable, and just future. Hosted at the George Mason University campus in Arlington, Virginia, and the Hopkins Bloomberg Center in Washington, D.C., the event featured keynote speakers such as Victoria St. Martin, Senator Bill Frist, MD, and The Honorable Heather Mizeur. Discussions centered on accelerating action toward sustainability and equity in the context of planetary health.

03/04/25  WHO Highlights Global Efforts in Disease Elimination

The World Health Organization released an episode of its “Science in 5” series titled “Disease be gone!” on March 4, 2025. The episode highlights global efforts in eliminating various diseases, emphasizing the importance of sustained public health initiatives and international collaboration in achieving disease elimination goals.

03/04/25  EU4Health Announces Upcoming Tenders for Vaccine Advancement and Antimicrobial Testing

The European Commission’s Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) announced upcoming EU4Health calls for tenders aimed at advancing influenza and mpox vaccines, as well as enhancing antimicrobial susceptibility testing. These initiatives reflect the EU’s commitment to strengthening health security and preparedness by supporting the development of critical medical countermeasures.

Personal Health

03/03/25  Women’s Health Initiatives in Australia: The Australian government has announced a $573.3 million investment to enhance women’s healthcare services. This includes adding contraceptive pills Yaz and Yasmin to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, potentially saving women up to $380 annually. The plan also encompasses larger Medicare payments, increased bulk billing options for IUDs and birth control implants, and the establishment of 11 new clinics focusing on endometriosis, pelvic pain, and menopause support.

03/03/25    Easing Licensing for Foreign-Trained Physicians in the U.S.: To address doctor shortages, several U.S. states are simplifying licensing processes for foreign-trained physicians. This initiative aims to bolster the healthcare workforce and improve patient access to medical services.

03/03/25    Safety of GLP-1 Medications for Mental Health: A recent study confirms that GLP-1 receptor agonists, commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes, do not increase the risk of suicide, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts. This finding provides reassurance regarding the mental health safety profile of these medications.

03/03/25  Long COVID Challenges

Long COVID continues to affect millions globally, with patients experiencing debilitating symptoms for extended periods. Despite the significant impact on quality of life, many sufferers feel overlooked, emphasizing the need for increased research, better treatments, and political support.

03/03/25  Emerging Fungal Infections

Climate change is contributing to the rise of fungal infections like Valley fever, originating from soil in arid regions. Changing weather patterns may facilitate the spread of such infections to new areas, highlighting the necessity for comprehensive research and public awareness.

03/03/25  Mental Health Crisis in Australia

Australia is witnessing a concerning trend in mental health, with only 19% of adults reporting no mental health issues in the past year. Financial pressures and societal stressors are significant contributors, underscoring the urgent need for increased investment and a holistic approach to mental health care.

03/03/25  Avian Influenza Outbreaks

A new strain of H5N1 avian influenza, known as D1.1, has been detected in cows, dairy workers, wild birds, and poultry, indicating a broader spread than previously observed. This development poses challenges for containment efforts and raises concerns about potential reassortment with other flu strains, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring and public awareness.

Planetary Health

Our Planet, Our Health: 2025 Climate Action Convention: From March 1-4, 2025, leaders, experts, and educators are convening in Washington, D.C., for a significant event focused on planetary health and climate action. The convention addresses the intersection of environmental sustainability and public health, aiming to drive progress toward a healthier and more equitable world.

Environmental Humanities Conversation: On March 3, 2025, Johns Hopkins University is hosting “Futures in the Face of Ruin,” a discussion exploring the environmental humanities. This event seeks to reflect on how we perceive and interact with environments affected by human activity, fostering a deeper understanding of our role in planetary health.