Public health and sustainability are two crucial and interdependent concepts that play a significant role in promoting human well-being and protecting the planet. Public health refers to the science and practice of preventing disease, promoting health, and prolonging life through collective efforts, while sustainability is the ability to meet the present needs of the population without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Together, these concepts form a holistic approach to creating healthier, more equitable, and sustainable communities, where people can thrive while preserving the planet’s natural resources and ecosystems for future generations. In this context, public health and sustainability are increasingly seen as two sides of the same coin, with a growing recognition of the critical importance of integrating these two fields to address the complex challenges facing our world today.
Non-sustainable development refers to the practices and policies that lead to environmental degradation, social inequality, and economic instability, which in turn affect people’s health and well-being. In non-sustainable development, there is often a focus on maximizing economic growth and profit, which can lead to the promotion of unhealthy foods while neglecting healthy and sustainable food options. This, in turn, can lead to the prevalence of food deserts, where communities lack access to fresh and healthy foods, and instead rely on cheap and processed foods that contribute to obesity and other diet-related diseases. One of the key drivers of non-sustainable development is the overconsumption of resources, including food, which can also lead to an increase in obesity rates. Leaving the negative psychological impact aside, biological and physiological mechanisms can link obesity to mental health problems. For example, obesity can lead to inflammation in the body, which may contribute to the development of depression and other mental health disorders. Hormonal changes associated with obesity, such as imbalances in leptin and insulin, may also play a role in the development of mood disorders.
Economic segregation is another negative impact of non-sustainable development that refers to the separation of individuals and communities based on their socioeconomic status. Non-sustainable development practices can exacerbate economic segregation by creating environments that favor certain socioeconomic groups while excluding others. One way in which non-sustainable development can contribute to economic segregation is through urban sprawl. Urban sprawl is the outward expansion of cities, often at the expense of rural or suburban areas, which can create spatially segregated communities. This can lead to the concentration of poverty and the exclusion of certain socioeconomic groups from resources and opportunities, such as access to jobs, education, and healthcare.
Economic segregation can have significant negative impacts on mental health. Studies have shown that individuals who live in economically segregated communities are at higher risk of developing mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. One of the reasons for this link is the lack of access to resources and opportunities that economic segregation can create. Residents of economically segregated communities often have limited access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities, which can contribute to feelings of hopelessness, stress, and anxiety. These factors can contribute to the development of mental health problems. Additionally, economic segregation can create social isolation and stigmatization, which also can contribute to poor mental health outcomes. Residents of economically segregated communities may experience social exclusion, discrimination, and limited social support, which can further exacerbate mental health problems. Furthermore, the stress of living in economically segregated communities can lead to a range of physical health problems, which can in turn contribute to the development of mental health problems. For example, individuals living in economically segregated communities may experience higher levels of air pollution, noise pollution, and lack of access to healthy foods, all of which can contribute to physical health problems that can affect mental health.
Finally, climate change is one of the most significant negative impacts of non-sustainable development. The effects of climate change are widespread and have significant negative impacts on both the environment and human societies. In addition to its environmental consequences, climate change also can have significant negative impacts on mental health. The effects of climate change, such as extreme weather events, natural disasters, and loss of biodiversity, can contribute to feelings of stress, anxiety, and trauma, which can lead to the development of mental health problems such as depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For instance, individuals who experience extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, may face significant stress, trauma, and loss. Individuals who live in areas that are vulnerable to these events may experience chronic stress and anxiety, anticipating the next event and the potential for loss and harm. The loss of biodiversity and natural resources, such as forests and water sources, can also have significant negative impacts on mental health. These resources provide a source of comfort, recreation, and spirituality for many individuals and communities, and their loss can contribute to feelings of grief, anxiety, and a sense of disconnection from the natural world. Furthermore, the effects of climate change are not evenly distributed, and climate change can exacerbate existing inequalities and contribute to social and economic problems such as poverty, displacement, and conflict, which can contribute to mental health problems.
In addition to their current sustainable development agendas, governments should implement a Sustainable Development and Mental Health Strategy that focuses on promoting sustainable development practices that support positive mental health outcomes. Strategies for this may include establishing a task force or commission to oversee the development and implementation of the Sustainable Development and Mental Health Strategy or Providing financial incentives and support to businesses and organizations that adopt sustainable development practices that support positive mental health outcomes. This could include tax credits, grants, and other forms of financial support. Developing a set of guidelines and best practices for promoting sustainable development practices can help to support initiatives that promote access to green spaces, community gardening, and sustainable transportation options for positive mental health outcomes. Finally, for the sake of the sustainability of mental health support, educational materials and campaigns promoting sustainable development practices for positive mental health outcomes can be developed. By implementing a Sustainable Development and Mental Health Strategy, the government can promote sustainable development practices that support positive mental health outcomes. This can help to create healthier, more equitable, and more resilient communities that are better equipped to address the challenges of the 21st century.
By The European Institute for International Law and International Relations.
