Planetary health in the Anthropocene

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Geology

Background:

• The concept of the Anthropocene epoch, a human-dominated era, is widely discussed.
• Anthropogenic activities significantly impact the environment and human-nature relationships.
• Current economic models of unlimited growth are unsustainable and inequitable.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review definitions and patterns of the Anthropocene.
• To highlight emerging risks, challenges, and possibilities for global population health.
• To explore the role of health promotion in addressing Anthropocene challenges.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on planetary health in the Anthropocene.
• Analysis and interpretation of 25 selected references from an initial pool of 42.
• Synthesis of findings related to anthropogenic impacts and health promotion.

Main Results:

• Anthropogenic forces exert profound, intentional, and unintentional influences on natural and social systems.
• A critical theory of action is needed to mitigate the deleterious effects of human activities.
• The paradigm of unlimited economic growth exacerbates intergenerational inequities.

Conclusions:

• Promoting planetary health and sustainable development is crucial for population well-being in the Anthropocene.
• A fundamental change in the human-terrestrial system relationship is necessary.
• Addressing geopopulational and temporal inequities requires a new approach to development and resource management.