One Health

One Health

The interconnected challenges of health inequities, climate change, and food security require urgent, coordinated action informed by science and innovation. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) bear a disproportionate burden of preventable diseases, exacerbated by gaps in healthcare access, digital disparities, and environmental degradation.

The UNGA79 Science Summit emphasized leveraging interdisciplinary solutions to bridge these divides. Mental health, digital healthcare, and One Health frameworks emerged as focal areas, with discussions highlighting the transformative power of integrating science, technology, and innovation (STI) across sectors.

The context for this report is rooted in addressing systemic barriers, such as inequitable resource distribution, stigmatization of mental health, and the impacts of climate change on health and agriculture. Bridging science with health equity underscores the necessity of aligning global health priorities with local solutions, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Objectives

The objectives identified during the Science Summit at UNGA79 encapsulate a multi-pronged approach to addressing health inequities, enhancing food security, and fostering resilience to climate change. These objectives are designed to leverage scientific and technological innovations, foster interdisciplinary collaborations, and align global health and sustainability efforts with the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Promote Equitable Access to Healthcare

Healthcare disparities are a persistent challenge, particularly in low-resource settings where access to quality healthcare remains limited. Addressing these disparities requires:

• Strengthening Primary Healthcare Systems: Develop culturally tailored, community-based health services that integrate physical and mental health care. For example, primary care models incorporating mental health, as advocated by Dr. Martina Kabenge (Makerere University), are essential for addressing the dual burden of disease in underserved regions.
• Reaching the Unreached: Expand mobile health clinics and telemedicine services to deliver care to remote and marginalized populations, enabling early detection and treatment of diseases.

Expand the Use of Technology in Healthcare

Digital healthcare technologies are transforming the healthcare landscape by enabling greater accessibility, efficiency, and accuracy. Objectives include:

• Leverage Telemedicine: Ensure widespread adoption of telemedicine platforms to overcome geographical barriers and provide remote access to specialists, particularly for mental health and chronic conditions.
• Implement AI and Predictive Analytics: Utilize AI-powered tools for predictive diagnostics, resource allocation, and personalized treatment plans. As discussed by Dr. Karine Sargsyan (Cedars-Sinai Hospital), AI can optimize hospital operations and reduce readmissions.
• Adopt Electronic Health Records (EHRs): Standardize EHR systems to facilitate efficient data sharing, reduce medical errors, and improve patient outcomes. Dr. Bandar Al Knawy (Ministry of National Guards Health Affairs) highlighted the success of EHR implementation in streamlining healthcare delivery.

Ensure Sustainable Food Security

Agricultural productivity and food security are under threat from climate change, land degradation, and the spread of zoonotic diseases. A One Health approach—integrating animal, plant, and human health—is critical for addressing these challenges. Objectives include:

• Combat Zoonotic Diseases: Enhance surveillance and control measures to prevent diseases that affect both humans and animals, as emphasized by Dr. Lia Rotherham (Onderstepoort Veterinary Research).
• Strengthen Soil Health and Biodiversity: Promote the use of microbiome-based solutions to improve soil health and boost agricultural productivity, as advocated by Dr. Samiran Banerjee (North Dakota State University).
• Build Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Support farmers with climate-adaptive practices and technologies to ensure sustainable food production.

Foster Interdisciplinary Research and Collaboration

Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential to develop holistic solutions for interconnected global challenges. Objectives include:

• Build Partnerships Across Sectors: Facilitate collaborations between governments, academic institutions, private industries, and NGOs to pool expertise and resources. Initiatives like the Science Granting Councils Initiative in Africa exemplify how cross-sector partnerships can drive gender-responsive and inclusive research【9†source】.
• Develop Knowledge Networks: Create platforms for sharing data, research findings, and best practices to accelerate innovation and replication of successful models globally.
• Strengthen Capacity Building: Train researchers, healthcare providers, and community leaders in the latest scientific and technological advancements to maximize impact.

Address Mental Health and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)

Mental health and NCDs, especially in children, are often overlooked in global health discussions. Objectives include:

• Integrate Mental Health into Primary Care: Ensure that mental health services are embedded within general healthcare systems, reducing stigma and broadening access. Dr. Noeline Nakasujja (Makerere University) emphasized the importance of community-based education in overcoming cultural barriers to mental health care.
• Expand Access to Life-Saving Treatments for Childhood NCDs: Programs like CLAN‘s @MATES4Kids initiative, led by Kate Armstrong, aim to provide affordable medications for children with chronic illnesses.

Develop Climate-Resilient Health Systems

Climate change exacerbates health vulnerabilities, particularly in LMICs. Objectives to address these impacts include:

• Adapt Health Infrastructure: Build climate-resilient healthcare facilities that can withstand extreme weather events and deliver care sustainably.
• Integrate Climate Data into Health Planning: Use predictive climate models to anticipate and mitigate health impacts, such as the spread of vector-borne diseases.
• Advocate for Sustainable Energy in Healthcare: Transition healthcare facilities to renewable energy sources, reducing carbon footprints and enhancing resilience to power disruptions.

Enhance Education and Community Empowerment

Empowering communities with education and training is vital for sustaining progress in health and sustainability. Objectives include:

• Promote STEM Education: Encourage youth, especially girls, to pursue careers in science and technology to build a diverse and capable workforce.
• Train Local Health Workers and Farmers: Equip communities with the skills needed to adopt innovative healthcare and agricultural practices.
• Foster Behavioral Change: Implement community outreach programs to raise awareness about preventative healthcare, sustainable farming, and environmental conservation.

Align Efforts with the SDGs

Finally, all objectives are aligned with the broader goals of the Sustainable Development Agenda, ensuring that progress in health, equity, and sustainability contributes to the global mission of “leaving no one behind.” This alignment ensures that scientific advancements translate into tangible benefits for individuals, communities, and ecosystems worldwide.

By pursuing these comprehensive objectives, stakeholders can build a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient future that bridges the gap between science, health, and development.

Implementing the SDGs

The Science Summit at UNGA79 featured a wealth of inspiring examples from diverse organizations and thought leaders working across health equity, food security, and environmental sustainability. These examples showcase actionable solutions to pressing global challenges.

Bridging Mental Health Gaps

• Dr. Charles Herrick (Nuvance Health): Highlighted the transformative potential of telepsychiatry in addressing mental health service gaps, particularly in low-resource and rural areas. His work focuses on providing accessible psychiatric consultations via digital platforms, significantly reducing barriers for underserved populations.
• Dr. Noeline Nakasujja (Makerere University): Emphasized the critical role of culturally sensitive mental health education in Africa. Her initiatives target stigma reduction and community-based awareness programs to encourage help-seeking behavior and acceptance of mental health interventions.
• Dr. Martina Kabenge (Makerere University): Advocated for integrating mental health services into primary healthcare systems. She presented data on how this approach reduces healthcare disparities by addressing both physical and mental health within a unified framework.

Digitalization of Healthcare

• Dr. Bandar Al Knawy (Ministry of National Guards Health Affairs): Shared insights on the implementation of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) in Saudi Arabia, which streamline healthcare delivery, reduce errors, and improve patient outcomes. His team demonstrated how centralized health data can enhance efficiency and decision-making in hospitals.
• Dr. Karine Sargsyan (Cedars-Sinai Hospital): Discussed the integration of AI in diagnostics and operational processes. Her examples included AI tools that predict patient outcomes, optimize resource allocation, and reduce hospital readmissions, especially in urban healthcare settings.
• Dr. Priti Rao (Digital Health Solutions Foundation): Focused on mobile health (mHealth) platforms that deliver maternal health services in remote areas of India, enabling better prenatal and postnatal care.

Tackling Childhood NCDs

• Kate Armstrong (CLAN): Presented the @MATES4Kids initiative, a global program aimed at improving access to essential medicines and resources for children with chronic illnesses like diabetes and epilepsy. Her work highlights the importance of addressing inequities in pediatric care by building community networks and fostering policy change.
• Jake Feuerstein (SicklED at Lehigh University): Introduced a groundbreaking low-cost diagnostic tool for Sickle Cell Disease, enabling early detection and treatment in resource-constrained areas like Sierra Leone. His innovation promises to save lives by making critical healthcare accessible to underserved populations.

Enhancing Food Security

• Dr. Lia Rotherham (Onderstepoort Veterinary Research): Focused on preventing zoonotic disease outbreaks through the One Health framework, which integrates animal, plant, and human health strategies. She showcased successful case studies in managing diseases like Rift Valley Fever to safeguard both public health and livestock economies.
• Dr. Samiran Banerjee (North Dakota State University): Explored the role of soil microbiomes in sustainable agriculture, emphasizing how healthy soil ecosystems can enhance food security. His research links biodiversity conservation with increased agricultural productivity and resilience to climate change.
• Prof. Agnes Kalibata (Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa): Discussed innovative programs that promote smallholder farming, reduce post-harvest losses, and incorporate gender-sensitive approaches to improve agricultural outcomes in African countries.

Climate-Resilient Healthcare

• Dr. Chewe Luo (UNICEF): Highlighted the intersection of maternal and child health with climate change. Her presentation underscored how rising temperatures and extreme weather events exacerbate health vulnerabilities in children, with solutions like solar-powered healthcare facilities and mobile clinics reducing risks.
• Prof. Alash’le Abimiku (Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria): Advocated for integrating climate adaptation strategies into national health policies. Her work emphasized the need for climate-resilient healthcare systems that can withstand extreme events while delivering uninterrupted care.

Gender-Inclusive STEM Leadership

• Dr. Michèle Mbo’o-Tchouawou (AWARD – African Women in Agricultural Research and Development): Shared programs that enhance leadership among women in STEM, particularly in agricultural research. She discussed how mentorship networks and capacity-building initiatives empower women to lead food security and climate adaptation efforts.
• Dr. Ndidi Nwuneli (Sahel Consulting): Presented strategies for integrating gender-responsive policies into food systems, promoting equitable access to resources for women farmers, and addressing systemic barriers.

Disease Surveillance and One Health Frameworks

• Dr. William Karesh (EcoHealth Alliance): Focused on the importance of global disease surveillance systems to predict and prevent zoonotic outbreaks. His work integrates environmental monitoring with public health systems, emphasizing how human, animal, and ecosystem health are interlinked.
• Dr. Jane Goodall (Jane Goodall Institute): Delivered a compelling address on the relationship between wildlife conservation and human health. She discussed her organization’s efforts to reduce the risk of zoonotic disease spillovers by protecting biodiversity and mitigating habitat destruction.

Innovations in Healthcare Technology

• Dr. John Nkengasong (Africa CDC): Shared examples of how the Africa CDC leveraged digital health platforms to strengthen COVID-19 response efforts. He highlighted the use of real-time data dashboards to monitor infections and allocate resources efficiently.
• Dr. Sophie Delaunay (Médecins Sans Frontières): Presented mobile technology solutions that improve health delivery in conflict zones, such as telemedicine platforms used to support remote diagnostics and patient management.

Education and Capacity Building

• Dr. Evelyne Gitau (Science for Africa Foundation): Focused on training programs for early-career African researchers to address health challenges through innovation. Her organization provides mentorship, funding, and opportunities to lead interdisciplinary projects.
• Dr. Charles Rotimi (NIH Center for Human Genetics Research): Discussed initiatives to train genomic scientists in Africa, emphasizing the role of local expertise in addressing region-specific health challenges like sickle cell anemia and malaria.

Other initiatives

Prof. Cecilia Onyango (University of Nairobi):

• Presentation: Plant Health as a Critical Component of One Health.
• Focus: Examined how improving plant health contributes to agricultural productivity and food security. Addressed sustainable practices for managing plant diseases within the One Health framework.

Dr. Ansa van Vuuren (Agricultural Research Council – Plant Health and Protection):

• Presentation: Quarantine and Certification Schemes for Plant Health.
• Focus: Highlighted the role of plant certification programs in ensuring disease-free propagation material, essential for high-yield agriculture and food security.

Dr. Jake Feuerstein (Lehigh University):

• Presentation: Low-Cost Testing for Sickle Cell Disease in Sierra Leone.
• Focus: Described the development of low-cost, rapid test strips for sickle cell disease. These tests aim to enhance diagnosis and treatment in resource-constrained environments.

Dr. Esther Kobel (CLAN Child Health Africa):

• Presentation: Action Plans for Addressing Childhood NCD Inequities in Africa.
• Focus: Emphasized community-level strategies to improve healthcare access for children with non-communicable diseases, including building support systems and reducing stigma.

Dr. Kristin Peterson (Washington State Department of Health):

• Presentation: Incorporating One Health into Public Health Policies.
• Focus: Shared Washington State’s pioneering efforts in embedding One Health principles into public health infrastructure to bridge global and local health challenges.

Dr. Samiran Banerjee (North Dakota State University):

• Presentation: Soil Health and Microbiomes in One Health Frameworks.
• Focus: Explored the role of soil microbiomes in ecosystem health and their indirect contributions to human and animal health.

Prof. Naveed Ahmed Khan (Istinye University, Turkey):

• Presentation: Novel Therapeutics Against Acanthamoeba Infections.
• Focus: Highlighted interdisciplinary approaches to combat parasitic diseases, emphasizing the importance of combining human and environmental health strategies.

Dr. Rachasak Boonhok (Walailak University, Thailand):

• Presentation: Interdisciplinary Approaches to Waterborne Infections.
• Focus: Focused on combating diseases like Acanthamoeba through collaborative strategies that integrate environmental health.

Dr. Peter Bloomfield (Nithyananda Hindu University):

• Presentation: Mind-Body Techniques for Mental Health Resilience.
• Focus: Shared research-backed strategies like yoga and meditation to combat mental health challenges, supported by genetic and neurophysiological evidence.

Dr. Prema Kothandaraman (Women’s Health Excellence Center):

• Presentation: Consciousness-Based Mental Health for Women.
• Focus: Explored gender-specific factors influencing mental health and highlighted self-empowerment strategies for sustainable mental well-being.

Dr. Erika Caballero Muñoz (Santo Tomas University):

• Presentation: Digital Literacy in Human Care.
• Focus: Showed how digital education tools can humanize healthcare and increase access to medical knowledge in low-resource settings.

Prof. Maria de Lourdes Pereira (Aveiro University):

• Presentation: Natural Products in Acanthamoeba Therapy.
• Focus: Focused on the use of natural resources in innovative therapies for waterborne infections, advocating for sustainable solutions.

Dr. Shachie V. Aranke (Nithyananda Meditation Academy):

• Presentation: Brain-Scan Insights into Meditation and Mental Health.
• Focus: Shared research findings on how meditation can positively influence brain patterns and improve mental health.

Dr. Hazel A. Tabo (De La Salle University, Philippines):

• Presentation: One Health Strategies for Emerging Infections.
• Focus: Discussed strategies for emerging waterborne and parasitic infections, leveraging interdisciplinary frameworks for prevention and treatment

Dr. Nigel Rollins (World Health Organization):

• Presentation: Global Health Frameworks for Gut Microbiome Research.
• Focus: Addressed the global potential of microbiome interventions in improving nutrition and combating malnutrition in children.

These presentations collectively demonstrate a wide spectrum of efforts addressing critical global challenges in health, food security, and sustainability. The diverse strategies span technological innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and holistic care, advancing the SDGs and driving sustainable progress worldwide.

Goals

The goals outlined during the Science Summit emphasize a comprehensive approach to addressing global health inequities, food security challenges, and climate resilience. These goals align with sustainable development priorities, fostering innovative, inclusive, and scalable solutions to interconnected global challenges.

Expand Equitable Access to Healthcare

Achieving universal health coverage requires addressing systemic barriers that prevent marginalized populations from accessing quality healthcare. The focus is on:

• Strengthening primary healthcare systems by integrating essential services such as mental health, chronic disease management, and maternal care into basic health delivery frameworks.
• Leveraging community-based approaches, such as mobile clinics and telemedicine platforms, to deliver healthcare in remote and underserved regions.
• Ensuring equitable access to essential medicines and treatments for chronic conditions, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and those living in low-resource settings.

Strengthen Digital Transformation in Healthcare

The integration of digital technologies is pivotal to modernizing healthcare systems and addressing inequities. Key goals include:

• Widespread adoption of telemedicine to overcome geographical and infrastructural barriers, connecting patients with specialists and improving diagnostic capabilities.
• Implementing interoperable electronic health record (EHR) systems to enhance data-sharing, reduce medical errors, and improve continuity of care.
• Leveraging artificial intelligence and predictive analytics to optimize resource allocation, personalize treatment plans, and improve operational efficiency in healthcare facilities.

Ensure Food Security Through Sustainable Agriculture

A resilient and sustainable food system is essential for global health and well-being. Goals in this area focus on:

• Promoting integrated strategies that address the health of humans, animals, and the environment under the One Health framework to mitigate risks like zoonotic diseases.
• Enhancing agricultural sustainability through eco-friendly practices that protect soil health, conserve water, and preserve biodiversity.
• Developing solutions to reduce post-harvest losses, improve storage infrastructure, and increase the availability of nutritious food, particularly in regions prone to food insecurity.

Build Climate-Resilient Health Systems

The health impacts of climate change necessitate adaptive and resilient health infrastructure. Goals include:

• Constructing health facilities capable of withstanding extreme weather events and ensuring uninterrupted care delivery during crises.
• Incorporating climate forecasting data into health system planning to mitigate risks such as heat-related illnesses, vector-borne diseases, and displacement due to climate events.
• Transitioning healthcare facilities to renewable energy sources to reduce emissions while enhancing energy security and reliability.

Address Mental Health and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)

Mental health and NCDs are critical but often neglected components of global health strategies. The goals in this area include:

• Embedding mental health services within primary healthcare frameworks to ensure holistic care and reduce stigma associated with mental illness.
• Expanding access to diagnostics, treatments, and support systems for managing chronic diseases, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
• Developing community outreach and education programs to raise awareness about mental health and the prevention of NCDs, fostering healthier lifestyles.

Empower Communities Through Education and Capacity Building

Empowering individuals and communities through education and skill development is key to achieving sustainable progress. Specific goals include:

• Training healthcare workers, researchers, and farmers in innovative practices that address local and global challenges effectively.
• Encouraging youth and underrepresented groups, such as women, to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), fostering diversity and inclusivity in problem-solving.
• Implementing community engagement initiatives that promote behavioral change for better health, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation.

Foster Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Addressing interconnected global challenges requires collaboration across disciplines and sectors. Goals include:

• Building partnerships between governments, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and private industries to pool resources, expertise, and technology.
• Encouraging public-private collaborations to scale impactful innovations and ensure sustainable funding for health and agricultural programs.
• Creating knowledge-sharing platforms to accelerate the dissemination of successful practices, data, and research globally.

By achieving these goals, stakeholders can address systemic challenges, create sustainable solutions, and ensure progress toward a healthier, more equitable, and environmentally resilient global future. These objectives represent a unified strategy for advancing sustainable development through innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity.

Contribution to the SDGs

The discussions and projects presented during the Science Summit demonstrated clear alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), showcasing how innovative health, food security, and environmental initiatives contribute to global sustainability. Below is an expanded analysis of the SDGs addressed, integrated with specific examples of speakers and projects.

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being

Goal: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.

The summit emphasized improving access to quality healthcare, addressing mental health, and tackling non-communicable diseases (NCDs):

• Mental Health Integration: Dr. Charles Herrick (Nuvance Health) highlighted telepsychiatry programs that reduce barriers to mental health services in remote regions. These initiatives align with SDG 3.4, which aims to reduce premature mortality from NCDs and promote mental health.
• Childhood NCD Management: Kate Armstrong (CLAN) presented the @MATES4Kids initiative, which improves access to life-saving medications for children with diabetes and epilepsy in low-resource settings, addressing SDG 3.8 (achieving universal health coverage).
• Digital Health Advancements: Dr. Karine Sargsyan (Cedars-Sinai Hospital) discussed how AI and predictive analytics improve patient outcomes and operational efficiency, aligning with SDG 3.9 by addressing risks from unsafe healthcare environments.

SDG 2: Zero Hunger

Goal: End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture.

Food security initiatives were a significant focus, particularly those using innovative approaches to combat hunger and improve agricultural resilience:

• Soil Microbiome Innovations: Dr. Samiran Banerjee (North Dakota State University) emphasized the role of soil health in increasing agricultural productivity. His work aligns with SDG 2.4, which focuses on ensuring sustainable food production systems.
• Zoonotic Disease Management: Dr. Lia Rotherham (Onderstepoort Veterinary Research) presented the use of One Health frameworks to prevent diseases like avian flu and Rift Valley Fever, directly contributing to food security and public health.
• Reducing Post-Harvest Losses: Programs like the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) promote smallholder farming and infrastructure improvements, ensuring food availability while minimizing waste.

SDG 13: Climate Action

Goal: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

The integration of climate resilience into healthcare and agricultural systems was a recurring theme:

• Climate-Resilient Healthcare: Prof. Alash’le Abimiku (Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria) discussed strategies for climate-adaptive healthcare systems, including solar-powered facilities, which reduce emissions and maintain functionality during extreme weather events.
• Community Adaptation: Dr. Chewe Luo (UNICEF) emphasized the health impacts of climate change on children and proposed mobile clinics powered by renewable energy to reach vulnerable populations.
• Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from farming while increasing productivity align with SDG 13.2, as highlighted by soil management and biodiversity conservation projects.

SDG 5: Gender Equality

Goal: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

Empowering women and girls in health and STEM fields was a prominent focus of several sessions:

• STEM Leadership for Women: Programs led by organizations like AWARD (African Women in Agricultural Research and Development) equip women with skills and leadership training, enabling them to lead agricultural research and address food security challenges.
• Healthcare Capacity Building: Women’s participation in community health initiatives, particularly in maternal and child health programs, directly contributes to equitable access to healthcare services.
• Encouraging Girls in STEM: Mentorship networks were emphasized as a key strategy to ensure greater gender balance in science and technology fields, addressing systemic barriers to women’s participation in innovation.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Goal: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.

The importance of partnerships across sectors and disciplines was central to achieving the SDGs:

• Global Health Collaborations: Initiatives like the Africa CDC’s digital health platforms, discussed by Dr. John Nkengasong, showcase the power of partnerships in improving health surveillance and response systems.
• Interdisciplinary Research Networks: Programs like the Science Granting Councils Initiative in Africa foster collaboration between governments, universities, and NGOs to strengthen research capacity and align efforts with sustainable development goals.
• Public-Private Synergies: Collaborative efforts between private technology firms and public health organizations were highlighted as essential for scaling innovations like telemedicine and AI in healthcare delivery.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

Goal: Reduce inequality within and among countries.

Efforts to address health and economic disparities through equitable resource distribution and targeted programs:

• Accessible Diagnostics: Projects like low-cost diagnostic strips for sickle cell anemia, presented by Jake Feuerstein (SicklED at Lehigh University), aim to close gaps in healthcare access in underserved regions.
• Equitable Funding Models: Initiatives led by the Science for Africa Foundation ensure that underrepresented researchers and innovators receive the support needed to address local challenges effectively.
• Mobile Health Solutions: Digital health platforms bring services to marginalized populations, reducing geographical and economic barriers to care.

Holistic Impact on SDGs

The contributions discussed align with the interconnected nature of the SDGs:

• Efforts under SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) also support SDG 13 (Climate Action) by promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
• SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) aligns with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by ensuring equitable access to healthcare.
• SDG 5 (Gender Equality) directly enhances progress across SDG 2, SDG 3, and SDG 17 by empowering women to lead solutions in health, food security, and sustainability.

Economic, Social, and Environmental Impact

The projects and initiatives discussed during the Science Summit at UNGA79 underscore the multifaceted impacts of addressing health inequities, food security challenges, and environmental sustainability. These initiatives showcase how targeted investments and innovative approaches generate significant economic benefits, improve social equity, and protect the environment, creating a foundation for global resilience.

Economic Impact

Addressing health inequities, improving food security, and implementing climate-adaptive strategies result in substantial economic gains by boosting productivity, reducing systemic costs, and fostering new opportunities.

1. Improved Workforce Productivity:
   • Early Detection and Treatment: Digital health tools, such as AI-powered diagnostics discussed by Dr. Karine Sargsyan (Cedars-Sinai Hospital), enhance early disease detection and reduce the economic burden of untreated illnesses. By preventing the progression of chronic diseases, these tools reduce absenteeism and increase workforce productivity in both high- and low-resource settings.
   • Mental Health Services: Dr. Charles Herrick (Nuvance Health) highlighted how telepsychiatry lowers the costs associated with untreated mental health conditions, such as lost wages and emergency care expenses, ensuring that individuals can contribute effectively to their communities.
2. Increased Agricultural Productivity:
   • Soil Health and Crop Yields: Research on microbiomes by Dr. Samiran Banerjee (North Dakota State University) demonstrates how enhancing soil health improves crop yields without reliance on costly chemical fertilizers. These practices support smallholder farmers by increasing profitability and reducing input costs, particularly in regions reliant on subsistence farming.
   • Preventing Livestock Losses: Disease prevention measures under the One Health framework, presented by Dr. Lia Rotherham (Onderstepoort Veterinary Research), reduce financial losses caused by zoonotic outbreaks. Livestock health interventions stabilize rural economies that depend on animal husbandry.
3. Cost-Effective Healthcare:
   • Telemedicine Implementation: Telehealth platforms reduce infrastructure costs for healthcare delivery by enabling remote consultations and minimizing the need for physical facilities in underserved areas.
   • Electronic Health Records (EHRs): Standardized EHR systems reduce administrative inefficiencies, medical errors, and duplicative testing, saving billions annually while improving care quality.
4. Job Creation and Economic Resilience:
   • Renewable Energy in Healthcare: Climate-resilient health facilities powered by renewable energy, such as solar, create jobs in installation, maintenance, and operations while lowering long-term costs associated with power outages.
   • Agricultural Innovation: Programs promoting sustainable farming practices generate employment in rural areas by introducing new technologies and value chains, empowering smallholder farmers and creating localized economic opportunities.

Social Impact

The social benefits of these initiatives include improved health equity, strengthened community resilience, and the empowerment of marginalized groups, particularly women and youth.

1. Reducing Health Inequities:
   • Community Health Outreach: Integrated health services, such as combining mental health care with primary healthcare systems, improve access for underserved populations. These models address disparities in healthcare availability and reduce stigma, particularly in LMICs.
   • Childhood NCD Management: Programs like @MATES4Kids, led by Kate Armstrong (CLAN), provide children with chronic illnesses access to life-saving medications and support, reducing mortality rates and improving family stability.
2. Empowering Women and Marginalized Communities:
   • Gender-Responsive Agricultural Programs: Initiatives such as AWARD’s mentorship networks enable women to lead research and agricultural innovations, breaking systemic barriers and fostering inclusive growth. Women’s leadership in these areas ensures that solutions are more equitable and sustainable.
   • Youth Engagement in STEM: Programs that encourage STEM education for underrepresented groups equip future generations with the tools to lead innovative solutions, addressing systemic inequities in access to technology and resources.
3. Improved Community Resilience:
   • Climate-Resilient Health Systems: Mobile health clinics powered by renewable energy and adapted to withstand extreme weather events ensure uninterrupted care during crises, enhancing community resilience to climate impacts.
   • Disease Surveillance and Prevention: Community-level surveillance of zoonotic diseases improves public health outcomes while empowering local populations to take preventative measures.
4. Behavioral Change and Awareness:
   • Education on Preventive Healthcare: Community-based programs raise awareness about the importance of vaccinations, nutrition, and hygiene, fostering healthier lifestyles and reducing disease prevalence.
   • Environmental Stewardship: Initiatives promoting sustainable practices, such as soil conservation and water management, instill long-term environmental responsibility within communities.

Environmental Impact

The environmental benefits of these initiatives are critical to mitigating climate change, conserving biodiversity, and promoting sustainable resource management.

1. Reducing Carbon Emissions:
   • Renewable Energy Adoption: Transitioning healthcare facilities and agricultural operations to renewable energy reduces dependency on fossil fuels, significantly lowering carbon emissions.
   • Sustainable Farming Practices: Techniques such as reduced tillage and organic farming decrease greenhouse gas emissions while improving soil carbon sequestration, contributing to climate mitigation efforts.
2. Biodiversity Conservation:
   • Ecosystem Preservation: Disease prevention measures under the One Health approach reduce deforestation and habitat destruction, protecting biodiversity and preventing zoonotic spillovers.
   • Integrated Pest Management: Reducing reliance on chemical pesticides preserves pollinator populations and protects aquatic ecosystems from contamination.
3. Climate Adaptation and Resilience:
   • Drought-Resistant Crops: Research into drought-resistant and nutrient-rich crops ensures food security under changing climate conditions, reducing the need for land expansion and deforestation.
   • Disaster-Preparedness in Healthcare: Climate-adaptive healthcare facilities equipped with renewable energy and robust infrastructure ensure continued service delivery during climate-related disasters.
4. Sustainable Water and Soil Management:
   • Soil Health Restoration: Microbiome-based soil restoration improves water retention and reduces the need for irrigation, conserving water resources in drought-prone areas.
   • Water Pollution Prevention: Initiatives that reduce agricultural runoff protect water bodies from contamination, maintaining ecosystem health and supporting human consumption.

Real-World Examples Across the Impacts

1. Economic:
   • AI-driven diagnostic tools, such as those discussed by Dr. Karine Sargsyan, optimize healthcare costs and improve operational efficiency.
   • Soil health management programs increase crop productivity and reduce dependency on synthetic fertilizers, enhancing economic stability for smallholder farmers.
2. Social:
   • Telehealth solutions bridge access gaps in remote areas, ensuring that underserved populations receive timely care, improving overall health equity.
   • Women-led agricultural programs empower communities by creating inclusive opportunities for leadership and innovation.
3. Environmental:
   • Solar-powered healthcare facilities reduce carbon footprints while ensuring energy security for critical services.
   • Sustainable farming practices prevent land degradation and conserve biodiversity, contributing to long-term environmental resilience.

Holistic Impact Across All Dimensions

These initiatives highlight the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental benefits. For example, a project that provides solar power to rural health clinics:

• Reduces operational costs (economic),
• Improves access to care for marginalized populations (social),
• Lowers carbon emissions (environmental).

By addressing global challenges holistically, these efforts create a synergistic impact that enhances well-being, promotes equity, and protects the planet, reinforcing the path to sustainable development.

Impact on the 2030 Agenda

The initiatives and discussions at the Science Summit during UNGA79 showcased the profound contributions of science, technology, and innovation toward advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The solutions presented align directly with the principles of “leaving no one behind” and fostering transformative progress across health, food security, and climate resilience. Below is an expanded analysis of how these efforts impact the 2030 Agenda, supported by examples from speakers and projects.

Advancing Universal Health Coverage and Reducing Inequalities

The 2030 Agenda emphasizes equitable access to healthcare as a cornerstone of sustainable development. Key contributions include:

• Improving Health Equity: Telemedicine platforms and AI-powered diagnostics, as highlighted by Dr. Karine Sargsyan (Cedars-Sinai Hospital), break down geographical barriers and improve healthcare delivery in underserved regions, addressing inequalities across income and location. These solutions directly align with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
• Mental Health as a Priority: By integrating mental health services into primary care, initiatives such as those discussed by Dr. Charles Herrick (Nuvance Health) reduce stigma and improve access, especially in low-resource settings. These efforts fulfill SDG 3’s target to promote mental health and well-being for all.

Strengthening Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture

Global food systems are a central focus of the 2030 Agenda, which aims to eliminate hunger and ensure sustainable agricultural practices:

• Integrated Approaches for Food Security: The One Health framework, presented by Dr. Lia Rotherham (Onderstepoort Veterinary Research), addresses zoonotic diseases that threaten both public health and food supply. This aligns with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and supports SDG 3 by preventing outbreaks that impact human populations.
• Enhancing Agricultural Resilience: Programs that promote soil health and biodiversity conservation, such as the microbiome-focused research by Dr. Samiran Banerjee (North Dakota State University), support sustainable farming practices that increase crop yields and adapt to climate change. These solutions fulfill SDG 2.4, which targets sustainable food production systems and resilient practices.

Promoting Climate-Resilient Systems

Climate change poses a significant challenge to achieving the 2030 Agenda, particularly in vulnerable regions. Initiatives that incorporate climate resilience into healthcare and agriculture have a transformative impact:

• Building Climate-Adaptive Healthcare Systems: The work of Prof. Alash’le Abimiku (Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria) on solar-powered health facilities ensures the continuity of care during extreme weather events while reducing carbon footprints. This contributes to SDG 13 (Climate Action) by aligning healthcare with climate mitigation strategies.
• Renewable Energy Solutions: Solar-powered mobile clinics, proposed by Dr. Chewe Luo (UNICEF), address the dual challenge of energy poverty and healthcare access, advancing SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) while fulfilling the health-related goals of SDG 3.

Empowering Women and Marginalized Groups

Empowerment and inclusivity are central to the 2030 Agenda, which emphasizes gender equality, youth engagement, and equitable access to resources:

• Women in Leadership: Programs led by organizations like AWARD (African Women in Agricultural Research and Development) empower women to lead agricultural and research initiatives, promoting SDG 5 (Gender Equality). These efforts ensure women’s active participation in decision-making processes that impact health, food security, and environmental sustainability.
• Youth in STEM: Mentorship networks and STEM education initiatives aim to increase youth representation in science and technology, fostering innovation and inclusivity. These programs address SDG 4 (Quality Education) by creating opportunities for marginalized groups to contribute to sustainable development.

Advancing Multistakeholder Partnerships

The 2030 Agenda underscores the importance of partnerships across sectors and disciplines to achieve the SDGs:

• Global Health Collaborations: Initiatives like the Africa CDC’s digital health platforms strengthen health surveillance systems, demonstrating how regional partnerships contribute to global progress. These efforts align with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering collaboration and resource-sharing.
• Interdisciplinary Research Networks: Programs such as the Science Granting Councils Initiative in Africa facilitate knowledge exchange between governments, academia, and private sectors, enabling scalable solutions to health and environmental challenges.

Synergistic Contributions Across SDGs

The interconnected nature of the SDGs amplifies the impact of these initiatives across multiple goals:

• Integrated Health and Environment Solutions: The One Health approach not only improves public health (SDG 3) but also contributes to environmental conservation (SDG 15) by reducing the likelihood of zoonotic disease outbreaks.
• Food Security and Climate Resilience: Sustainable agricultural practices support SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) while enhancing resilience to climate impacts under SDG 13 (Climate Action).
• Digital Health and Inequality Reduction: Telemedicine and AI-driven healthcare solutions bridge access gaps, addressing both SDG 3 and SDG 10.

Driving Long-Term Impact

The initiatives discussed lay the groundwork for sustainable, long-term progress:

• Systemic Change in Health and Food Systems: By addressing root causes of inequities and inefficiencies, these projects create systemic change that supports resilient healthcare and food systems, fulfilling the vision of the 2030 Agenda.
• Policy Alignment with Sustainability Goals: Many initiatives emphasize the importance of aligning national and regional policies with global sustainability goals, ensuring that the principles of the SDGs are embedded in governance frameworks.

Key Outcomes Supporting the 2030 Agenda

1. Eradicating Hunger and Malnutrition:
   • Resilient food systems and sustainable agricultural practices ensure that vulnerable populations have access to nutritious food, advancing SDG 2 and SDG 3.
2. Improving Health and Well-Being:
   • Integrated healthcare models and digital innovations improve health outcomes for marginalized groups, addressing the core objectives of SDG 3.
3. Building Climate Resilience:
   • Climate-adaptive infrastructure in healthcare and agriculture mitigates the impacts of climate change, fulfilling SDG 13 while supporting other goals like SDG 7 and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
4. Fostering Global Collaboration:
   • Partnerships and interdisciplinary networks accelerate progress toward multiple SDGs, creating a unified approach to sustainable development.

By aligning with the 2030 Agenda, the initiatives presented at the Science Summit demonstrate the power of integrated, collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges. These programs not only fulfill immediate needs but also create the foundation for a sustainable, equitable, and resilient future.

Way Forward

The way forward emphasizes the strategic steps required to scale and sustain the impact of initiatives presented at the Science Summit at UNGA79. Achieving the goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda requires a collaborative, inclusive, and transformative approach that leverages science, technology, and innovation. Below are expanded recommendations for building a resilient future across health, food security, and environmental sustainability.

Strengthen Global and Local Partnerships

1. Foster Cross-Sector Collaboration:
   • Governments, NGOs, academic institutions, and the private sector must unite to pool expertise, resources, and technologies. This collaboration ensures that innovations like AI-driven diagnostics, telemedicine, and renewable energy reach the most vulnerable populations.
   • Example: Partnerships like the Africa CDC’s digital health platforms have demonstrated how regional collaborations can address cross-border health challenges effectively.
2. Enhance Knowledge Sharing:
   • Create global platforms for sharing best practices, research findings, and technological advancements. These platforms can accelerate the adoption of successful models and reduce duplication of efforts.
   • Example: Interdisciplinary networks like the Science Granting Councils Initiative facilitate the exchange of ideas and resources across countries.
3. Promote Public-Private Synergies:
   • Encourage private-sector investment in public health and agricultural resilience projects to ensure scalability and sustainability. For example, renewable energy firms can partner with healthcare providers to power health facilities sustainably.

 Scale Digital Transformation

1. Expand Access to Telemedicine and AI Solutions:
   • Telemedicine platforms must be scaled to reach underserved populations in rural and low-income areas, ensuring equitable healthcare access. AI-powered tools for diagnostics and resource management should be integrated into healthcare systems globally.
2. Bridge the Digital Divide:
   • Invest in digital infrastructure, particularly in low-resource settings, to ensure that remote areas have access to telecommunication networks and digital healthcare technologies.
3. Implement Universal EHR Systems:
   • Standardize electronic health record (EHR) systems to enable seamless data sharing across facilities and regions, reducing redundancies and improving patient outcomes.

Invest in Climate-Resilient Systems

1. Build Climate-Adaptive Healthcare Facilities:
   • Health systems must be strengthened to withstand the impacts of extreme weather events. Solar-powered and disaster-resilient facilities should become the norm in vulnerable regions.
2. Promote Climate-Resilient Agriculture:
   • Equip farmers with drought-resistant seeds, sustainable irrigation methods, and agroecological techniques to enhance resilience to climate variability. These practices should be supported through education and financial incentives.
3. Integrate Climate Data into Decision-Making:
   • Predictive climate models must be used to inform healthcare and agricultural planning, enabling communities to proactively address risks like heatwaves, flooding, and disease outbreaks.

 Empower Communities Through Education and Capacity Building

1. Train Healthcare Workers and Farmers:
   • Strengthen local capacity by providing healthcare workers and farmers with access to training in the latest technologies and sustainable practices. For example, community health workers can be trained in telemedicine, while farmers can be educated on soil health management.
2. Promote STEM Education:
   • Encourage young people, especially girls, to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This focus builds a pipeline of skilled professionals who can lead future innovations in health and sustainability.
3. Enhance Community Awareness:
   • Conduct widespread awareness campaigns to promote preventive healthcare, sustainable agricultural practices, and environmental stewardship. These campaigns should be culturally relevant and inclusive.

 Secure Long-Term Financing

1. Leverage Gender-Lens Investing:
   • Allocate funding specifically for women-led projects in healthcare, agriculture, and technology to address systemic inequities and amplify the contributions of women innovators.
2. Increase Public and Private Investment:
   • Governments should prioritize budget allocations for health and agriculture, while incentivizing private investment in these sectors. Funding mechanisms must be aligned with sustainability and equity goals.
3. Develop Innovative Financing Models:
   • Explore blended finance models, where public funds are combined with private investments, to scale impactful projects like renewable energy-powered clinics and digital health platforms.

 Align National Policies with the 2030 Agenda

1. Create Enabling Policy Environments:
   • Governments should develop and enforce policies that promote gender equity, sustainable agriculture, and digital healthcare adoption. Policies must be inclusive and evidence-based.
2. Monitor and Evaluate Progress:
   • Establish clear metrics to track progress toward the SDGs. These metrics should include health outcomes, food security indices, and environmental conservation benchmarks.
3. Incorporate Multisectoral Strategies:
   • Align policies across health, agriculture, and climate sectors to maximize synergies and avoid fragmented efforts.

Drive Innovation Through Research and Development

1. Foster Interdisciplinary Research:
   • Encourage collaboration across disciplines to address complex global challenges. For example, research integrating soil microbiome science with sustainable farming practices can transform food systems.
2. Support Local Innovations:
   • Invest in community-led innovations that address local needs and challenges. This approach ensures culturally appropriate solutions and promotes ownership among communities.
3. Expand Funding for R&D:
   • Governments and international organizations must increase funding for research and development in areas such as renewable energy, disease prevention, and digital health technologies.

 Foster Inclusive Participation

1. Engage Women and Youth:
   • Ensure that women and young people have a seat at the table in decision-making processes related to health, food security, and environmental sustainability.
2. Encourage Grassroots Leadership:
   • Empower local leaders to drive change within their communities. Grassroots initiatives often have the most direct and sustainable impact on local challenges.
3. Promote Diversity in Leadership:
   • Build leadership teams that reflect the diversity of the populations they serve, ensuring that all voices are heard and represented in decision-making.

Focus on Long-Term Sustainability

1. Adopt Circular Economy Principles:
   • Promote waste reduction and resource efficiency in healthcare and agriculture. For example, sustainable farming practices can be combined with waste-to-energy technologies to create closed-loop systems.
2. Develop Resilience Plans:
   • Communities and governments must prepare for future challenges by integrating resilience plans into health and agricultural systems.
3. Ensure Global Solidarity:
   • International cooperation is essential for achieving the SDGs. Wealthier nations must provide technical and financial support to LMICs to address global inequities.

The Science Summit highlighted the transformative potential of science and technology in addressing global health and sustainability challenges. Success stories from mental health integration, digital health, and sustainable agriculture showcase the power of interdisciplinary collaboration.

However, sustained investment and policy support are essential for scaling these solutions and ensuring long-term impact.