Why we do what we do
Good health is essential for development—and it relies on healthy environments and sustainable use of ecosystems. IDRC’s Ecosystems and Human Health program (Ecohealth) produces evidence from research to support good health, improve the environment, and foster healthier, ecologically sound development.
Environmental hazards contribute to 25% of all disease. Climate change, globalization, urbanization, deforestation, and agricultural intensification affect human health. Poor health and poverty accentuate social and economic inequities.
Existing infectious diseases in developing countries are already difficult to overcome. And when people encroach on ecosystems, new diseases can emerge and spread rapidly. Many developing countries still grapple with food insecurity and malnutrition despite advances in agriculture.
Tackling these kinds of problems requires more than a single technology or expertise. Different sectors and academic disciplines need to be brought together to focus on environmental and health benefits (and costs) of development. Our Ecohealth program addresses health, social, and environmental conditions together by fostering research that applies an ecosystem approach to health.