On the Nature Conservation Day, we highlight three pillars that we believe are essential to preserve and raise awareness – human, animal and environmental health.
We believe that a unique approach – One Health – that embraces these three pillars is essential to ensure a healthier future for everyone.
One Health is a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach that recognizes the interdependence of human, animal and environmental health. This vision focuses on global health and sustainability challenges: habitat destruction, biodiversity loss and climate change, among others. Covid-19 is a good example of how environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity can contribute to the spread of zoonotic diseases.
In Portugal, we have several initiatives that promote the connection between nature conservation and global health – One Health. Here are some inspiring examples:
Reserva Natural da Lagoa de Santo André e da Sancha:
This reserve is dedicated to the conservation of wetlands, essential for biodiversity and water quality. Projects such as ecological restoration have contributed to the protection of aquatic species and migratory birds, demonstrating that they improve the quality of the environment for local communities.
Peneda-Gerês National Park:
This park is an example of how nature conservation can benefit human health. Conservation programs have preserved local fauna and flora, providing a space for ecotourism and well-being activities, which promote people’s physical and mental health.
LIFE LINES Project:
Focused on conserving biodiversity along transport infrastructure, this project has demonstrated that integrating conservation measures into urban and transport planning can reduce species mortality and promote ecological connectivity. Furthermore, it contributes to public health by reducing wildlife-related traffic accidents.
If you would like to better understand the connection between nature conservation and the One Health concept, we recommend reading some essential authors and studies:
Peter Daszak, president of EcoHealth Alliance. His studies on emerging diseases are crucial to understanding the importance of conservation in preventing pandemics. His investigations show how biodiversity loss and environmental degradation can lead to the emergence of new diseases.
The studie of Jones, K.E., et al. (2008) entitled “Global trends in emerging infectious diseases” – essential reading. Published in Nature, this work presents global trends in emerging infectious diseases and highlights the need for an integrated approach to health.
We must reflect, raise awareness and promote the value of conservation and the connection with One health in society. At UPPartner, we are committed to promoting environmental initiatives that protect the planet for a healthier future for all living things.
One health not only protects our environment, but also contributes to a healthier and more sustainable future for all.
Join us on this mission.
