Capacity building in planetary health: two international summer schools in Utrecht

In July 2026, Utrecht University is organising two complementary summer schools dedicated to planetary health, bringing together academics, professionals, and change-makers, fostering a sense of responsibility and agency to address the pressing challenges posed by the planetary health crisis. In the face of accelerating climate crises and environmental degradation, understanding the deep interconnections between human health and planetary well-being is more critical than ever.

Foundations of Planetary Health

The first course “Foundations of Planetary Health” (13-17 July 2026) highlights how the Planetary Health crisis extends far beyond climate change alone: it represents a broader environmental and systems-level challenge that intensifies ongoing public health issues and is driven by social inequities, unequal access to resources, and disparities in political power. In this course, participants will build a foundational understanding of the key concepts, frameworks, and justice-oriented perspectives that shape the field of planetary health. 

The course combines theoretical input, case studies and practical workshops, including discussions on climate disinformation, mental health and local responses to environmental challenges. A field trip will also provide a practical illustration of the challenges involved in ecological restoration and regional adaptation.

Transforming Systems for Planetary Health

This advanced course “Transforming Systems for Planetary Health” (20-24 July 2026) dives deep into the structural forces shaping our planet’s health – power dynamics, decoloniality, the exposome, and the economic and governance structures driving the planetary crisis. Participants will develop perspectives on how to contribute to equitable and sustainable systems transformation. It’s designed for individuals with a background in planetary health, sustainability, or systems thinking who are ready to explore these topics more critically.

Practical information

The summer schools are organized by Utrecht University, supported by the UNESCO Chair Global Health & Education, and UU Planetary Health Education Hub.

Posted by Didier