Abstract:
Developing a national One Health strategy would transform health and environmental risk management through a systemic and intersectoral approach along with community co-creation. This panel will unite leaders from top universities, government agencies, and funding bodies to discuss challenges, opportunities, and actions for a One Health strategy grounded in Canadian realities. By exploring Canada’s current role and leadership in One Health, the panel aims to identify key actions in interdisciplinary research, training, and scientific policies. The goal is to reach a consensus on positioning Canada as a global health leader to better react to and prevent current and future health crises.

Summary of Conversations

The panel explored a One Health strategy for Canada, emphasizing its ecosystem approach that connects human, animal, and environmental health. Discussions highlighted the necessity of moving beyond anthropocentric views in science to consider the interconnectedness of all health domains. Indigenous knowledge systems were recognized as vital, offering deep insights into these interrelations. Specific Canadian challenges, like wildfires and diverse ecosystems, underscore the urgency of a One Health approach. The discussion emphasized the need for balance in optimizing human health within shared ecosystems and addressing obstacles to progress. The panel also examined public engagement, governance, and industrial roles within a One Health framework, advocating for practical applications and clear departmental mandates.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of Challenges

• Interconnectedness Overlooked: A significant gap exists in recognizing the deep links between human, animal, and environmental health, hindering holistic solutions.
• Colonial Lens: A colonial perspective often overshadows and undermines Indigenous knowledge, which is vital for understanding ecosystem health.
• Broad Concept Overwhelm: The vast scope of One Health can seem impractical, leading to inaction and a lack of focus on specific issues.
• Siloed Governance: Government structures are fragmented, lacking clear leadership and coordination across departments, which impedes strategy implementation.
• Funding Contraction: Resource limitations cause departments to revert to core mandates, sidelining One Health initiatives.
• Public Disconnect: The relevance of One Health to daily life, especially for urban populations, remains unclear, complicating public engagement.
• Policy Silos: Policy making often fails to account for unintended consequences across sectors, leading to ineffective or harmful outcomes.
• Industrial Tensions: The competing interests of industry, particularly regarding regulations and sustainable practices, pose challenges to One Health implementation.

Recommendations/Next Steps

• Embrace Indigenous Knowledge: Integrate Indigenous perspectives and collaboration in One Health strategies to foster reconciliation and holistic approaches.
• Develop Clear Communication: Craft targeted messaging and concrete case studies to demonstrate the practical value and relevance of One Health to the public.
• Designate Leadership: Establish a lead government ministry or entity to coordinate One Health initiatives across federal, provincial, and municipal levels.
• Formalize Collaboration: Create routine systems and clear mandates for interdepartmental collaboration, especially in crisis response.
• Promote Embedded Research: Integrate researchers into government agencies and public health offices to foster real-world application and policy relevance.
• Incorporate One Health Training: Integrate One Health principles into academic curricula and professional training across disciplines.
• Incentivize Sustainable Practices: Encourage industry innovation and adherence to biosecurity and phytosanitary regulations through incentives and clear guidelines.
• Align with Global Frameworks: Implement the UN’s joint plan of action to guide government efforts and ensure accountability in advancing One Health objectives.