Introducing the Cochrane Planetary Health Thematic Group
The Cochrane Planetary Health Thematic Group was approved by the Cochrane Governing Board in September 2024, building on the work of the Cochrane Climate-Health Working Group.
The focus of the new Thematic Group is as follows -
Human activities have caused significant environmental disruption on Earth, threatening our health and well-being. The concept of planetary health emphasizes the interconnection between human civilization and the natural systems that support it. Major disruptions that already impact health around the world include climate change, pollution, biodiversity, land use, freshwater availability, and natural nutrient cycles.
Cochrane, a leading producer of health evidence syntheses, plays a key role in addressing these challenges. Its new Scientific Strategy identifies "Climate Change and Sustainability" as a priority. By adopting a holistic planetary health approach, the Planetary Health Thematic Group aims to help establish the necessary evidence for informed decision-making, focusing on how governments and health systems can adapt to protect health while reducing ecological harm.
Taking a holistic planetary health perspective ensures an understanding of how various ecological threats interact. It will also reduce the likelihood of unintended consequences from focusing solutions on only a narrow set of drivers. Synthesizing the available research, to identify what works, why, for whom and in what circumstances, will be vital for guiding policy and practice decisions. This is no small challenge. The body of relevant evidence in the field of planetary health – both published research and grey literature – is extensive and multidisciplinary, transcending the traditional boundaries of health research.
As a leader in the field of evidence synthesis, Cochrane is in a position to lead on methodological considerations for reviews within this topic, as well as to publish quality reviews in this area. How can Cochrane members draw on our expertise and commitment to producing relevant and rigorous reviews in order to support increased planetary health? Our group members believe there are opportunities for authors, review (editorial) groups, methods and geographic groups, Fields and others connected with Cochrane to contribute.
We are always happy to welcome new people. Please contact us at cochrane.planetary (at) gmail dot com, for more information or to ask to be added to our mailing list.