The "Working Together for a Healthy, Just, and Sustainable Planet" event, held on November 13-14, 2022, served as a pre-conference experience for the 2022 International Ecohealth International Conference. The event was first designed in 2022 by the Ecohealth International External Advisory Group Chair Dr. Margot Parkes, and the Ecohealth International Early Career Coordinator Angel Kennedy. The Global Summit emerged out of a desire to foster unique and connected spaces for ecological and equity-informed innovation, integration, and global synergies to improve health for all: a commitment that increasingly demands us to nurture connections and relationships across regional contexts, disciplines, sectors, and generations. In this spirit of working in new ways and connecting 24-hours of conversations around the planet for a common goal of advancing a healthy, just, and sustainable future, the Global Summit is often nicknamed the ‘Earth Hug’. Given its previous success, we are running the Global Summit annually.

The 2022 iteration of the event featured a series of 10 sessions spanning 24-hours. Key highlights from various regions and sessions included discussions on topics like climate change, Indigenous knowledge, sustainable development, mental health, and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration.  

In South and West Africa, discussions encompassed antimicrobial resistance, rural mental health services, localizing global policies, and community engagement initiatives focused on climate change and plastic pollution awareness.  

In East Europe, the importance of involving all stakeholders and finding common language was stressed, and the emotional aspects of addressing climate challenges were discussed.  

West Europe highlighted the role of the Eco-health community in broadening perspectives, the need for holistic decision-making, and the importance of diverse forms of knowledge.  

North America emphasized interspecies equity, youth engagement, and the significance of reconnection with nature.  

In East Oceania, discussions revolved around overconsumption, changing academia's role, and the importance of storytelling for communication and knowledge exchange.  

West Oceania addressed water management, cultural immersion, and the need for collaborative solutions with Aboriginal involvement.  

South Asia focused on the translation of knowledge, hope, and optimism, with a preview of the "Seeds of Vandana Shiva" documentary highlighting efforts to move forward with purpose and action.  

Middle East, North and East Africa highlighted the importance of breaking down silos, involving passionate voices, and considering bioregional responses.  

Across all sessions, participants emphasized a commitment to thinking globally while acting locally, engaging with youth, promoting intergenerational justice, and embracing a holistic approach to address environmental and health challenges. The event underlined the interconnectedness of all lifeforms and the need for innovative, collaborative, and cross-disciplinary solutions to create a healthier, more sustainable planet. These discussions paved the way for a rich and diverse program at the 2022 International Eco-Health conference in Durban, South Africa.  

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