PUTTING the health of the planet first will help us protect ourselves and our children from sickness, says Cornwall’s director of Public Health in her annual report.

A child born today will face a world that is, on average, 4°C warmer by their 71st birthday – putting their health under threat for a range of reasons, including extreme weather, new infectious diseases, pollution and psychological stress.

Authored by the interim director of Public Health for Cornwall Rachel Wigglesworth, the report was written prior to the widespread outbreak of Covid-19.

However, the document does address how the pandemic has reinforced the need to protect the planet and therefore safeguard our health.

Rachel Wigglesworth said: ’This report is a call to action to reconnect with our planet, protect it and enjoy the benefits.

’The virus has clearly highlighted the connections between humans, animals and the planet, and how human activity can lead to the emergence of new diseases.’

The report discusses the impact of environmental degradation on human health, measures being taken to address the issues presented, and recommends positive action designed to prevent further environmental harm and improve health and wellbeing.

Cornwall Council portfolio holder for children, wellbeing and public health, and Liskeard councillor Sally Hawken said: ’The changes made to the way we live during the pandemic has helped some us to appreciate some of the more positive effects on the environment and in turn, our health.

’Less cars on the road meant cleaner air, reduced carbon emissions from road and air traffic and more opportunity for physical activity.

’These are all positive things that we can consider when it comes to planning how we can move forward while we recover from the more negative impacts the virus has had on us.’

Cllr Hawken added: ’This report also complements the council’s declaration of a climate emergency, making those very clear links between the health of our planet and the health of those that live on it.’