Governance for the well-being of future generations

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Policy Studies

Background:

• Human activities have significantly impacted Earth's planetary boundaries, posing risks to future generations.
• Children's health and well-being are disproportionately affected by long-term environmental degradation and policy neglect.
• Current government priorities often focus on short-term economic gains, neglecting sustainable development and child welfare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for a paradigm shift in political decision-making, moving beyond present-focused concerns.
• To explore alternative measures of societal progress that prioritize well-being over Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
• To review and contextualize emerging national strategies for child well-being within global recommendations.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing evidence on planetary boundaries and human impact.
• Analysis of policy documents and governmental approaches in selected countries.
• Synthesis of findings in relation to the WHO-UNICEF-Lancet Commission report.

Main Results:

• Evidence confirms substantial human impact on planetary boundaries with intergenerational consequences.
• Several countries, including Wales and New Zealand, are initiating innovative approaches to governance and well-being.
• These initiatives offer potential models for overcoming present-biased political decision-making.

Conclusions:

• A new approach is essential to safeguard children's future health and well-being.
• Valuing well-being beyond GDP and addressing the 'presentist' bias in policy are critical steps.
• International collaboration and the adoption of successful national strategies can foster a better future for the world's children.