ICN launches new topic brief underscoring vital role of nurses to protect the planet, human health and all life on Earth

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) has released a new topic brief titled “Nursing for Planetary Health and Wellbeing”, emphasizing the vital role nurses play in addressing the health impacts of our shared environmental crises. The brief highlights the emerging concept of planetary health and stresses the urgency to recognize and take action to reduce the impacts that human disruptions to Earth’s natural systems are having on the health of individuals and communities.

As the world’s largest health profession, nursing is uniquely positioned to respond to the to the threats to health and well-being posed by environmental degradation. The topic brief outlines key responsibilities for nurses in advocating for and contributing to sustainable and climate-resilient healthcare systems.

ICN President Dr Pamela Cipriano highlighted the significance of the brief:

“The future of health care will be shaped by this generation of nurses. It is vital they are well informed to assume their vital role regarding the environment, as set out in ICN’s Code of Ethics. Nurses are often the first to witness the impacts of environmental change on health, and the new brief provides a foundation for their action.”

The release of the topic brief coincides with a powerful statement by student and early career nurses underscoring the urgent need for the nursing profession to act on climate and environmental health. It also builds on ICN’s Position Statement on climate change and health.

The topic brief calls on nurse educators, policymakers, and health leaders to integrate planetary health into nursing education and practice. It offers practical guidance on how nurses can lead sustainability efforts in clinical settings and advocate for policies that protect public health by preserving the environment.

For more information and to download the topic brief, visit here

Authors of topic brief

Teddie Potter, Director of the Center for Planetary Health and Environmental Justice at the School of Nursing at the University of Minnesota

Erica Burton, Senior Policy Advisor - Nursing and Health Policy, International Council of Nurses

Barbara Astle, Director MSN Program and Professor, School of Nursing, Trinity Western University

Heidi Honegger Rogers, Associate Professor, University of New Mexico College of Nursing