PHSA's Planetary Health team is dedicated to identifying and addressing the impacts of organizational disruption on Earth's natural systems, human health, and well-being. As a relatively new concept in Western discourse, planetary health acknowledges the interconnected relationship between human health and the health of our planet. This relationship has long been understood and honoured by the First Nations communities who have stewarded these lands for thousands of years. 

A planetary health strategy is currently in development at PHSA. This work will be deeply rooted in First Nations knowledge, protocols, and leadership, guided by the Coast Salish teachings that have been gifted to PHSA by Knowledge Keeper, Sulksun, Shane Pointe. The strategy will encompass several key themes, including but not limited to:

• Reducing PHSA's organizational Scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions
• Promoting sustainable practices in both operations and clinical areas
• Mitigating organizational disruption to Earth's natural systems through projects, education, and training
• Improving the social, structural, environmental, and Indigenous determinants of health
• Supporting climate adaptation and resilience work
• Supporting provincial planetary health initiatives
  

These efforts are supported by Energy and Environmental Sustainability (EES), a regional collaboration team who works closely with programs across PHSA and advises on planning, design, construction, and operations of facilities to reduce the impact of the health-care system on the environment, and help improve the health of people with our communities.

For more detailed information about what PHSA is doing to work towards environmental sustainability, please read the 2023 PHSA Environmental Performance Accountability Report.