Postdoctoral trainee Jessica LeClair’05, PhD’23, MPH, RN, answers some frequently asked questions about planetary health.
What is planetary health?
Planetary Health is a solutions-oriented field and social movement dedicated to understanding how human health is profoundly linked to the health of the planet. It examines and addresses how human-caused disruptions, such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, harm our health and the well-being of all life on Earth. At its core, it reminds us that humans, other species, and ecosystems are interconnected.
How does this affect the different aspects of nursing?
Planetary Health affects every place where nurses work—whether at the bedside, in communities, or in policy settings. Environmental changes influence the health of every person, family, and community they care for. Nurses are trusted leaders and caregivers who can play a critical role in responding to these challenges.
What are people doing to address this? (broadly)
People worldwide are rethinking how we live, work, and care for each other and the Earth. Solutions are emerging in every sector, from transforming food systems to reducing waste to protecting biodiversity. Indigenous communities are leading powerful efforts that center reciprocal relationships with Nature, recognizing that we are within and not separate from the living world around us.
What is a planetary health report card?
The Planetary Health Report Card is a student-led initiative to evaluate how well health professional schools prepare students to care for people and the planet. It uses specific criteria to assess curriculum, research, community engagement, and more. Each year on Earth Day, the results are shared to celebrate progress and identify areas for growth.
How can Badger nurses and nursing students get involved?
Nurses can lead change in research, education, advocacy, and practice. For example:
- Study how climate change impacts priority populations—like infants, people with cancer, or elders—and develop nursing interventions.
- Reduce waste and build resilience in hospitals and clinics.
- Advocate for policies that protect both people and ecosystems.
- Integrate Planetary Health into nursing curricula.
There’s room for every Badger nurse and student to make a difference.