Planetary Health in Health Guidelines: Expert Workshop Report 2024.

Abstract

Health systems contribute to environmental degradation while simultaneously being affected by its consequences. Yet, planetary health considerations are largely absent from health guidelines. On November 6-7, 2024, the Planetary Health Expert Workshop convened over 50 experts from the GRADE Planetary Health Project Group at Humanitas University, Italy, to explore methods for embedding planetary health into health guideline development. Through presentations, case studies, and group discussions, participants identified key methodological gaps and proposed processes and tools to advance the integration of planetary health in health guidelines. Case studies highlighted the need to balance clinical effectiveness with long-term planetary impacts. This workshop demonstrates a strong interest in integrating planetary health considerations into health guidelines, ensuring evidence-based health recommendations are not only effective for individuals but also reduce planetary boundary transgressions, restoring Earth's natural systems.