The promise of one health for improved soil and food security in Papua New Guinea

Abstract

Papua New Guinea (PNG) faces a critical food security crisis, with nearly half of children under five experiencing stunting—more than twice the global average. Combined with high rates of wasting and overweight, this reflects the country's ‘double burden of malnutrition’. Furthermore, public health and environmental pressures in PNG are intensifying, particularly as climate change reduces crop yields, nutrient density and ecosystem stability. Addressing these interconnected challenges demands integrated strategies that strengthen both food and soil security. This article applies the One Health framework to PNG's social-ecological system by examining two interventions: soil health restoration and mangrove ecosystem rehabilitation. These interventions enhance landscape resilience, restore degraded soils and sustain protein-rich food sources. Our novel PNG One Health (Wanpela Helt) framework—a culturally grounded approach—emphasises strong soil, strong food and strong community (strongpela giraun, strongpela kaikai, strongpela komuniti), with family, community-based approaches and gender equity as cornerstones for sustainable development.