Environmental Concern and Global Health

There is burgeoning evidence that ecological and environmental change is having significant impact on human health. Though the causes are multifactorial, human behavior likely contributes significantly. There are both historical and emerging contemporary Christian environmental concern as a practice of stewardship on the earth. The international community has broadened its view of development and well-being to encompass the entire ecosystem based on emerging evidence expressed in the Sustainable Development Goals. Theologies of ecology are being rediscovered in Christian educational institutions, and newer generations have heightened conscientiousness regarding ecological systems, planetary health, and sustainability. There is enhanced awareness of the key factor of nutrition on individual, society and the land. Pandemics such as COVID-19 reveal our intimate interconnectedness with nature.

Submissions of any topic within the broad scope of the journal are always welcome. Subjects such as the following are particularly sought: 

  • Case studies on collaborations between FBOs/churches and governmental organizations/ multilateral organizations
  • Original research on Christian FBO inclusion of environmental concerns for health impacting development, for example climate change
  • Commentaries on discernment in interacting with other faiths & secular powers toward common goals for planetary flourishing
  • Application of plant-based diets at micro (personal health) and macro (public and environmental health) levels
  • Assessments of programs to reduce carbon emissions and innovations in “green” energy production
  • Theological reflection on planetary stewardship to include work toward sustainable agriculture, hygiene, animal care, soil care, clean air and water as acts of love for neighbor, the reconciliation of all things, and honoring the Creator
  • Studies or literature review on the role of Christian advocacy for the environment and related health issues
  • Addressing the pitfalls of following climate change projections, and the limitations of human endeavors on human and planetary flourishing.

Deadline for this call for papers 30 April 2021.

References

  1. Mitchell RB, Grills NJ. (2017). A historic humanitarian collaboration in the Pacific context. Christian Journal for Global Health 4(2), 2017: 87-94. https://doi.org/10.15566/cjgh.v4i2.160
  2. Clarke M. Introduction: Good and God–development and mission’ in Clarke M (ed.) Mission and development: God’s work or good works. London: Continuum, 2012. https://doi.org/10.5040/9781472549129.ch-001
  3. Nche GC, Achunike, HC, Okoli A. The challenges of climate change and the culpability of churches: Towards an effective church climate change action in Nigeria. Missionalia 45.2 (2017): 168-87. https://doi.org/10.7832/45-2-183
  4. Conradie EM. Climate change and the church: Some reflections from the South African context. The Ecumenical Review 62(2), 2010: 159-69. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1758-6623.2010.00054.x