Abstract
The importance of the global climate crisis requires linking physical activity promotion and climate action. This article provides a first overview of interconnections between physical activity promotion and climate action, potential synergies and discrepancies, aiming to stimulate further discussion about this topic. The analysis is based on the World Health Organization's Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018-2030 (GAPPA). The GAPPA covers five perspectives that are of particular relevance with respect to potential links with climate policy: (1) Infrastructures supporting active transport, (2) green spaces and recreational/exercise facilities, (3) exercise programs, (4) mass communication campaigns and mass participation events, and (5) training of professionals. Our analysis demonstrates a considerable alignment between strategies for physical activity promotion and efforts for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. However, in some of the areas, this alignment could still be improved. Additionally, more climate-conscious policies, research and surveillance need to be developed in the field of physical activity promotion.
Highlights
In recent years, there has been a new wave of recognition regarding the urgency of the global climate crisis
Our analysis shows that these links are already widely acknowledged in some action areas of the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity (GAPPA), most notably in the field of active transport and regarding green spaces and recreational/ exercise facilities
There are several interconnections between physical activity (PA) promotion and climate action. While they are most recognizable with regards to active transport, green spaces and – partially – recreational or exercise facilities, these links could be strengthened in other areas
Summary
1. Kevin Lanza , Michael & Susan Dell Center for Healthy Living at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) School of Public Health in Austin, TX, USA. Any reports and responses or comments on the article can be found at the end of the article. This article is included in the Climate Action gateway
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