Minnesota Public Health Association
Since 1907, MPHA has been dedicated to creating a healthier Minnesota through effective public health practice and engaged citizens.
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Planetary health task force
Overview
Tyler Pyle
Mission
Our mission is to enhance public awareness and action on the interconnectedness of ecological systems, social equity, and human well-being to ensure that future generations inherit thriving communities and a healthy planet.
PURPOSE
The Planetary Health Task Force of the Minnesota Public Health Association (MPHA) is committed to creating a sustainable and equitable future for those in Minnesota. We aim to integrate human health and environmental stewardship by:
- addressing social determinants of health;
- promoting evidence-based practices alongside lived experiences;
- advocating for policy change and innovation;
- and collaborating with communities to drive meaningful progress.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Education and Awareness
- Advocacy
- Resource Development
- Sustainable Practices
- Partnership and Collaboration
- Health Equity
MPHA uses the definition of Planetary Health from the Planetary Health Alliance:
Planetary Health is a solutions-oriented, transdisciplinary field and social movement focused on analyzing and addressing the impacts of destabilized natural systems on human health and all life on Earth.
GET INVOLVED!
The Planetary Health Task Force meets on the fourth Monday of each month from 11 AM to 12 PM. All MPHA members are welcome to attend.
Become a committee member and register to receive an invitation for our meetings.
If you’re interested in learning more or getting involved, reach out to planetaryhealth@mpha.net—we’d love to connect with you.
Why is this important for me, living in MN?What Can I Do?Hennepin County Trash Incinerator (HERC) Join the nearly 150 health workers calling for HERC’s closure and a community-driven transition plan. We are all affected by climate change. This can be through high temperatures, poor air quality, flooding, drought, and diseases spread by bites, like mosquitoes or ticks. These changes affect our health and well-being in a variety of ways. How the state of Minnesota is affected Minnesota residents could experience health impacts of climate change in many ways. This can be direct, like trouble breathing on high air pollution days. It can also experience mental stress from a flood or drought. A Climate Action Framework was updated in 2026, Climate Action Framework | Our Minnesota Climate. A short profile report summary is available: the Minnesota Climate and Health Profile Summary which highlights ways we're affected. How to make a difference Combating these changes requires a group effort. Here are some strategies and tips we can use to make a difference: |
 Support policies and actions to lower carbon emissions, plastic waste, and air and water pollution. |
Walk, bike, and use public transportation when it's reasonable. |
Try not to use single-use plastics and add more reusable items into your life to lower waste. |
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Explore ways to
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Reduce food waste: plan meals, use a shopping list, and compost scraps. Learn more about your city or county 
Reduce energy use: Look for weatherization programs in your area through your utility or county. 
Reduce water use: Look for rebates from your utility or city water services for installing water–efficient devices. 
Protect our sources of clean water. Local Resources
- Climate and Health 101 webinar
- The Lawns to Legumes program offers workshops, coaching, planting guides and individual support grants to help you install pollinator-friendly native plantings in your lawn.
- The Climate and Weather Homeowner's Checklists are designed to help Minnesota homeowners understand and prepare for local weather and climate risks.
- Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources
Local Volunteer Opportunities
Resources
National Resources
| International Resources
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