In the face of health, climate and environmental crises, the concept of global health – or One Health – is becoming a major scientific response. In Montpellier, researchers are committed to preventing risks at the interface between humans, animals and ecosystems.
One health, one world
Born in the 2000s, One Health is based on a fundamental principle: human, animal and environmental health are closely linked. Deforestation, rapid urbanization, intensive agriculture and trade in wild animals are all contributing to the emergence of zoonotic diseases. COVID-19, Ebola and avian flu are striking examples.
The concept is recognized by WHO, FAO, WHOA and UNEP. Today, it is a pillar of global preventive health policies.
“What we’ve been studying for years in the South is now coming to the North. What we want […] is to be able to better assess health risks by looking at the environment as a whole”, emphasizes Élisabeth Claverie de Saint Martin, CEO of CIRAD.
Montpellier, a scientific ecosystem of excellence
Montpellier is a pioneer in global healthcare. The region boasts a scientific network that is unique in Europe, with institutions such as CIRAD, IRD, INRAE, the University of Montpellier and the CHU. They are working together to better understand the links between health, environment, agriculture and climate, both in France and in developing countries.
Among the flagship projects, PREZODE (Prevention of Zoonotic Disease Emergence) embodies this interdisciplinary approach. Launched by CIRAD, INRAE and IRD, it aims to anticipate pandemics by acting on their ecological and social causes.
Science at the heart of prevention
Science plays a key role in this process. It enables us to create innovative monitoring systems, improve prevention and guide public policy. Using field data, interdisciplinary expertise and international cooperation, researchers model health risks and support the agro-ecological transition.
At the One Science Montpellier Foundation, we believe in the importance of this research.
By funding projects at the interface between human, animal and environmental health, we contribute to a better understanding of tomorrow’s major health challenges.