"The planet is sick," says Bertie Ahern on conclusion of "One Health for People and Planet" meeting in Edinburgh

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - The InterAction Council convened a meeting on taking forward collaborative action for "One Health for People and Planet" in Edinburgh on the 28th May just prior to the annual conference of the Planetary Health Alliance. 

The meeting brought together key partners who can enable the scale and speed of action required to strengthen global security and to promote a healthy planet for all. 

The meeting opened with a video from Achim Steiner, Administrator for the United Nations Development Programme, calling for leaders to enhance the nexus between Health and the Environment to ensure a Healthy Planet. 

Bertie Ahern, former Prime Minister of Ireland and Co-chair of the InterAction Council, has been a keen advocate for advancing the implementation of actions outlined in the ‘Dublin Charter for One Health’ that was discussed by partners in Edinburgh. Following the meeting Mr Ahern said:

“The planet is sick - and we all need to work together to ensure the health and wellbeing of future generations. "

Partners are following up on a range of joint initiatives on this agenda. These will be further explored at the next One Health for People and Planet meeting, planned for the day prior to the InterAction Council Annual Plenary Meeting in China this autumn.