22 June 2012: In the latest issue of “Our Perspective,” Olav Kjørven, Director of the UN Development Programme’s (UNDP) Bureau for Development Policy, stresses health as a sustainable development issue. He underscores the changing nature of global public health challenges associated with non-communicable diseases, such as cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. He shares three messages on the relationships between sustainable development and human health.

Kjørven first stresses that up to 25% of non-communicable diseases can be prevented by reducing air, chemical, and water pollution. Second, he highlights the need to integrate economic growth, environmental preservation and social equity, using an example of how providing clean, sustainable energy contributes to decreased energy costs, reduced pollution levels and improved health. Finally, he urges the development of a coalition on the connection between the environment and health agendas, noting that solutions must incorporate holistic, multi-sectoral approaches to address governance and social aspects of non-communicable diseases. [Our Perspective]