Dr Aletha Ward: Confronting the Triple Planetary Crisis – Shaping Tomorrow’s Health Response

Seminar Overview

In this session, Dr Aletha Ward will discuss the unfolding health consequences of the triple planetary crisis—climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss—and the underlying systems accelerating these threats. She will explore the physical, emotional, and social impacts on people, particularly those most affected, through a strengths-based lens. The session will also unpack the pressures facing healthcare systems and highlight what’s needed to lead, prepare, and adapt for the challenges ahead. Participants will gain insights into shaping a responsive, just, and future-focused health system in a time of planetary disruption.

Speaker

Dr Aletha Ward is a senior research fellow at the Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, and a national and international nursing leader in climate change and health systems response. With a background in health policy, health equity, and planetary health education, she advocates for integrating climate adaptation into healthcare leadership, practice, and reform. Her work bridges research, advocacy, and systems-level transformation.