As human pressures on our planet increase, the sustainability of our way of life, our continuous push for development and so-called progress is under threat. Human contributions to declining ecosystems and the reality of climate change are no longer debatable. Already countries in different parts of the world are unable to support populations as a result of droughts, famine, conflict, epidemics and lack of infrastructure.

Nature is revealing to us the interdependence of environmental, animal and human health and emphasising that our resources are finite. This concept is embedded in the title of this unique book, One Planet, One Health. The following chapters bring together different academic and real life perspectives and examples, beginning with the post-industrial history and concepts of One Health and including a consideration of legal, gender and ethical issues and constraints, case studies, the importance of surveillance and interdisciplinary research and climate change.

The University of Sydney’s Marie Bashir Institute for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity has as its central vision reducing the health and socioeconomic impacts of emerging infectious diseases through the lens of One Planet, One Health. Our remit encompasses interdisciplinary research, capacity building and advocacy with governments, professions and communities.  I am delighted that we have been able to bring together the perspectives of distinguished authors under the editorship of Professor Merrilyn Walton. I trust that you, the readers, will find the book informative and possibly contentious in parts, but always thought-provoking and stimulating.

 

Tania C Sorrell AM, FAHMS

 

Deputy Dean, Sydney Medical School and Head,

Westmead Clinical School

Professor and Director, Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases &

Biosecurity, University of Sydney

Director, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology,

Westmead Institute for Medical Research

Service Director, Infectious Diseases and Sexual Health, Western Sydney

Local Health District