Transdisciplinary Research as a Means of Protecting Human Health, Ecosystems and Climate by Engaging People to Act on Air Pollution

Citation

Büker P, West SE, Bowyer CJ, Apondo W, Cinderby S, Gray CM, Hahn M, Lambe F, Loh M, Medcalf A, Muhoza C, Muindi K, Njoora TK, Twigg MM & Price HD (2024) Transdisciplinary Research as a Means of Protecting Human Health, Ecosystems and Climate by Engaging People to Act on Air Pollution. CAB International One Health Cases. Wallingford: CABI Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1079/onehealthcases.2024.0002

Abstract
Air pollution harms the health of humans, nature and wildlife, agricultural crops and livestock and climate. As a result, it hinders the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and 13 (Climate Change). In order to improve human and (agro-)ecosystem health, One Health approaches for better air quality must account for local knowledge, cultural practices and priorities. People with lower socio-economic status often have limited awareness of air pollution yet are affected most through personal exposure and increased food prices. This case trialled a new, co-created transdisciplinary approach to air pollution awareness raising in the Mukuru community in Nairobi, Kenya. The pilot study used interviews, storytelling, participatory mapping, theatre, playful activities and music with the aim of discovering affected communities’ perceptions of air pollution, increasing understanding and empowering people to demand that policy makers develop and implement effective, inclusive air pollution abatement policies.

Notes
Additional authors: Charlotte Waelde, Anna Walnycki, Megan Wainwright, Jana Wendler, Mike Wilson

People

Dr Heather Price

Senior Lecturer, Biological and Environmental Sciences