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GAISF President Ivo Ferriani: “Sports community can have a positive contribution to both climate change mitigation and disease prevention”
On this year’s World Health Day, GAISF President Ivo Ferriani today underlined the impact and importance of sport and physical activity in protecting the health of human beings and the future of the planet.
Celebrated annually on 7 April, World Health Day aims to draw attention to a specific health theme and highlight a priority area of concern for people all over the world. This year’s theme is “Our Planet, Our Health”. A polluted planet, and increasing diseases like cancer, asthma and heart disease, mean that physical activity is more important than ever before to keep humans and our planet healthy.
It is important that GAISF Members continue to encourage physical activity and sports participation at all levels. Nitrogen dioxide pollution can aggravate respiratory diseases, particularly asthma. Well planned public transport systems, walking, running or cycling, can improve air quality, mitigate climate change, and improve health and general wellbeing.
GAISF President Ivo Ferriani said:
“Sport and physical activity have a huge role to play in ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages, which is one of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.
“So it is incredible to see how GAISF’s Members have embraced the role of sport in enabling sustainable development while empowering individuals and communities to get moving for both their physical and mental health. And by replacing sedentary behaviours with regular exercise, not only can the sports community promote healthy lifestyles, it can also make a positive contribution to climate change mitigation by encouraging sustainable practices.”
For more information visit https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-health-day/2022#