Synopsis

In this talk, Professor Tony Capon will introduce the findings of the Rockefeller Foundation–Lancet Commission on Planetary Health which published the report Safeguarding human health in the Anthropocene epoch in 2015, and canvass the implications of these findings for the future protection and promotion of human health and wellbeing.  To respond effectively to the health challenges of the Anthropocene, societies need to grapple with the global transitions that are now shaping our lives–demographic, epidemiological, food, energy, urban, economic, cultural and ecological.  Humanity can chart a safe, healthy and prosperous course ahead by addressing inequities in health and wealth within the environmental limits of the Earth.  However, this will require wise policies, decisive action and inspirational leadership.

Speaker

Professor Tony Capon, Director, Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Professor of Planetary Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University. Prof Capon is a public health physician and internationally recognised authority in environmental health and health promotion.  A former director of the global health institute at United Nations University, his research focuses on urbanisation, sustainable development and human health.  Tony co-chairs the Future Earth Health Knowledge–Action Network and has leadership roles in numerous not-for-profit organisations.