Planetary Health in Urban Planning in the City of Lahti – Operationalisation of the Approach in the Context of Nearby Nature

Abstract

In response to the sustainability crisis, various holistic approaches have emerged. One of these is planetary health, which highlights the interconnectedness between human health and natural systems. In Finland, Lahti is a pioneering city in advancing planetary health. While urban planners play a central role in implementing this approach, there has been little empirical research on its application in cities.

This study examines the implementation of planetary health in urban planning in Lahti, focusing on how the health and well-being benefits of nearby nature especially for young people are considered in land use planning. The data consists of interviews with urban planners.

Based on the results, urban planners perceive nearby nature as an important part of the urban structure. Their appreciation of nature, nature-friendly organizational culture, smooth planning practices, and the recognition of Lahti as a green capital support the preservation of green areas in the city. However, planners, who must constantly seek compromises between conflicting land use interests, recognize that green areas without zoning are at risk of being repurposed. The challenges indicate that systems thinking required in the planetary health approach along with evidence on the health benefits of nature should be better integrated into urban planning.