Youth for Planetary Health

A growing global youth movement of hundreds of youth — individual members and entire organizations — working towards a healthier planet and healthier people.

Planetary Health Definition

The field and movement built on the idea that human wellbeing and the health of Earth's natural systems are one and the same — working to drive a fundamental shift in how people relate to each other and to nature, so that both humanity and the planet can thrive for generations to come.

Youth working together for planetary health

About Us

Youth-led. Planetary Health. Global impact.

We are a youth-led organization within the Planetary Health global community, created to expand global understanding of planetary health as a public health concept—the relationship between the health of human populations and the natural systems we depend on.

Our focus is simple: make planetary health more visible, practical, and youth-powered. We do this by delivering accessible education, organizing training and capacity-building opportunities, launching youth-led leadership projects.

Read full about us

What We Do

Five pillars driving planetary health forward

Learn & Share

Talks, campaigns, webinars, and accessible resources that make planetary health understandable.

Train & Build Capacity

Workshops, mentorship, and project incubators to strengthen youth leadership.

Lead & Act

Youth-led initiatives connecting planet health and human well-being.

Clubs & Systems

Planetary health clubs in high schools and universities worldwide.

Grow the Network

Youth ambassadors expanding PHA membership across new regions.

Clubs in Action

Real students. Real impact. Everywhere.

Fredericksburg, VA — High School Club

Youth for Planetary Health takes root in local schools

A student-led club is bringing planetary health to the forefront — organizing educational events, a "Sustainable Swap" Earth Day project, native plant installations, and social media campaigns with reels, infographics, and mini podcasts. Led entirely by students, it's exactly the kind of local action we exist to support.

See how we support clubs like this

Voices From Our Community

What our members say about being part of the movement

Being part of Youth for Planetary Health showed me that young people can truly influence global health policy. It gave me the confidence to speak at the UN.

Vildan Soguktas Founder & Lead Representative, USA

Being part of Youth for Planetary Health has been an inspiring experience. What I value most is the opportunity to collaborate with passionate young leaders from around the world who are committed to advancing planetary health through education, leadership and action. Every meeting reinforces the power of youth-led collaboration and reminds me that meaningful change begins with informed, collective action. I'm proud to be part of a team that empowers young people to create healthier communities and a healthier planet.

Abdulsalam Abdulhakeem Nigeria

Working with Youth for Planetary Health has been an incredibly meaningful experience. Being part of this network has shown me that young people are not only passionate about protecting our planet—they are also capable of driving real, community-centered change. Through this team, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with inspiring youth leaders from diverse backgrounds, exchange ideas, and develop initiatives that connect planetary health with public health, climate resilience, and youth empowerment. The supportive and collaborative environment has encouraged innovation while strengthening our shared commitment to creating healthier and more sustainable communities. As a youth leader from Aceh, Indonesia, I am grateful to contribute local perspectives to a global movement. Youth for Planetary Health has reinforced my belief that meaningful change begins when young people are trusted, connected, and empowered to lead. I look forward to continuing this journey together and inspiring more young people to become champions for planetary health.

Imam Maulana Indonesia

I am proud to be a part of this team. The meetings we hold regularly increase our motivation. By making people aware of the environment, I think we make a great contribution to humanity.

Inci Denizer Turkey

Being part of Youth for Planetary Health has been a truly meaningful experience. Through YPH, I've developed a deeper awareness of the connection between our planet and our health. What inspires me most is the team's passion for creating awareness and empowering young people to make a difference. I'm grateful to be part of a community that encourages me to learn, grow, and contribute to a healthier future for our planet.

Sharara Awal Bangladesh

My name is Nicole Muhire, and I've been with Youth for Planetary Health since the very first Zoom meeting. It has been an incredibly eye opening and inspiring experience! Having the opportunity to listen to and engage in conversations with professionals who educate us on various aspects of planetary health has helped me become more confident in expressing my own perspectives while encouraging me to think in a solution oriented way. I look forward to our biweekly meetings because I know I'll always leave having learned something fascinating to share with my friends and family. I also love working with such a fun and like-minded team. Everyone inspires me with their achievements, and it's always refreshing to hear perspectives from people all around the world! One of my favorite parts has been working with the core team on logistics and administrative tasks. Seeing all of the behind the scenes planning come together in our general meetings and side events is incredibly rewarding and exciting! I'm grateful to be part of this organization, and I'm excited to continue growing alongside it and watching its impact thrive!

Nicole Muhire Kenya, based in Germany

Joining Youth for Planetary Health transformed my perspective on planetary health by helping me understand the vital link between climate change and mental health. It strengthened my knowledge, leadership, and advocacy skills, and inspired me to champion solutions that promote both healthy people and a healthy planet.

Joie Sophia Umuhoza Rwanda

Our Vision

A generation of empowered youth safeguarding planetary health so people and ecosystems can thrive, everywhere.

Our Mission

To mobilize, educate, and empower young people worldwide to advance planetary health.

Featured News
🌍 United Nations · May 5, 2026

Healthy Planet, Healthy Minds and Brains: Science for Resilient Cities and Communities

We hosted a side event at the UN Science, Technology and Innovation Forum, exploring the interconnection between planetary crisis, brain health, and mental well-being — especially among young people.

Our expert speakers shared powerful, evidence-backed perspectives: heatwaves increasing suicide rates by 3% in young adults, climate's sweeping health consequences, urban stressors compounding mental health burdens, protecting children's mental health from environmental disruption, and the case for brain-positive urban systems.

"Mental and brain health must be integrated into urban planning, climate policy, and sustainable development frameworks."

Watch the full event video

Speakers

Dr. Joshua Wortzel
Dr. Maria Neira
Ms. Toni-Shae Freckleton
Ms. Leyla McCurdy
Dr. Rym Ayadi
Amb. Hamad Sayyar

May 5, 2026

UN STI Forum
New York

Our Partners & Allies

Working alongside leading organizations in planetary health, climate, and mental well-being

More partners coming soon. Partner with us →