Healthy People, Healthy Planet: Holistic Thinking

Abstract

In the context of our broad ecological calamity, we highlight the linkages between climate change and human health. Holism is offered as a unifying model and process to align and foster individual, community, and planetary health and thereby address our existential crisis. We explain healthcare’s significant climate footprint and the obligation and opportunity for the healthcare sector to think and act holistically. Our linear economy is used as another example to explain how mechanistic thinking fuels ecological degradation, inequality, and adverse health outcomes. Action steps that support a healthy planet for all now and for all future generations are offered along with guidance for healthcare systems and health professionals.