I discovered what “Planetary Health” means (thanks MSCL)

Hello people!
Today I want to tell you everything I’ve learned about planetary health…
Yeah, I know… it probably does not ring a bell, but don’t worry! I also had no idea what it was all about until our meeting with the Munich Science Communication Lab (MSCL)!
Therefore, here I am to sum up all the key info I gathered, so you don’t feel left out!

On the 6^th of November, my class and I had a meeting with Bernhard Goodwin, the executive director and board member of the MSCL. To give you a clearer view of what I’m talking about, here’s a quick summary of what MSCL actually does and its story (because we all know low attention spans are no joke).

WHAT IS MSCL?

The MSCL is a non-profit joint initiative of scientists and science communicators that aims to bring together research about and the practice of science communication.
It was founded in 2021, thanks to generous support from the Volkswagen Foundation, and today its lab is hosted by the Department of Media and Communication at LMU Munich (though it collaborates with many other institutions).

WHAT IS ITS MISSION?

As the website states:

“The Munich Science Communication Lab (MSCL) develops evidence-based, ethical science communication strategies to enhance public discourse and participation, initially focused on the topic of Planetary Health. In the long term, the MSCL aims to create and share tools for communicating complex, “wicked” problems.“

WHAT IS ITS CURRENT FOCUS?

The research currently focuses on understanding public communication about Planetary Health.

After listing the key points to better understand MSCL and its goals, I can now tell you what I’ve learned about planetary health and why such importance is given to this cause.

Planetary health refers to an interdisciplinary field connecting the health of human civilizations and the natural environment on which they rely. It studies how human activities disrupt Earth’s natural systems at an ever-faster pace (think climate change, biodiversity loss, or pollution).
Even if we don’t always feel affected by these “external” factors, it’s mostly because we are among the lucky ones who can adapt with air conditioning, stable food supplies, and access to medicine. Yet every small factor still matters: even understanding how medications work in heat conditions can be vital for improving life and progress.

The MSCL recognizes that human health is inseparable from environmental health and works to share this knowledge, supporting science communication among both experts and non-experts.
Isn’t it crazy that such a relevant topic is still so often overlooked?

If you’re curious, starting from November 11th, the Public Health Film Festival will screen documentaries and films on these themes, followed by open discussions > more info here: https://www.phff.de/en/

Well well well… now you also know what Planetary Health means!
Be aware of your actions and be kind to the environment.
Support research and sustainability.
See you soon!!