Planetary health training needs in Italy: an exploratory institutional survey within a national environment and...

The Planetary Health approach, which recognizes the interdependence between human health and the integrity of natural systems, is increasingly considered essential for addressing health challenges related to climate change and environmental degradation. Integrating this perspective into the education and professional development of environment and health practitioners is a priority, especially in countries facing significant climate-related pressures. This study explores perceived Planetary Health training needs among Italian institutions working in the transdisciplinary field of environment and health.

An exploratory survey was distributed among 21 partner institutions of a national Ministry of Health project on outdoor air quality and health, including universities, national research institutes, local health authorities, public health authorities, and regional environmental protection agencies. The questionnaire assessed perceived training needs, preferred training delivery formats, and target professional profiles. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse responses.

Fourteen institutions completed the survey (66.7%), including institutions from public health, environmental protection, research, and academic settings. The most frequently identified needs were understanding the health impacts of pollution (78.6%), stakeholder and public engagement in decision-making processes (64.3%), and advanced environmental epidemiology (57.1%). Preferred delivery formats included seminars (78.6%), short, practice-oriented specialized training courses (71.4%), and distance learning (50%). The range of professional profiles identified as potential participants suggests that future training initiatives may need to accommodate diverse professional backgrounds.

This exploratory survey provides preliminary, project-based information that may inform the development of a postgraduate training course for professionals working within participating Italian environment and health institutions. The findings may guide the initial design of educational activities that combine structured and flexible learning options for the participating institutions.