September 2010 - Hot Topic

Built Environment

In January 2009, OPHA created a new Workgroup focussing on the Built Environment.

There is growing evidence of the role the built environment plays in affecting our health, both negatively and positively. The built environment impacts the air we breathe, the paths we walk on, the buildings we work in, the transportation system we travel through, the distances between our destinations and the overall shape of our communities. It impacts injury rates, our sense of safety, our level of physical activity, sense of social cohesion and the quality of the air, land and water. While it is clear that the built environment is not the only answer to improving health, its role and significance is undeniable.

Throughout the past year, a small and dedicated group of Public Health practitioners have been working to define the focus of the OPHA Built Environment Workgroup, develop a Terms of Reference, and create a structure for the Workgroup to succeed. We have consulted with our partners, surveyed those interested in the Workgroup and worked with OPHA staff to develop the first OPHA Fall Policy Forum: Taking Action on the Built Environment: Building Healthy Public Policy that will take place on September 28 and 29 in Toronto.

The OPHA Built Environment Workgroup will build upon initiatives, research and advocacy done in local public health units and/or by other organizations recognized for their expertise in the area of health and the built environment. We are presently drafting an initial workplan which will be on display at the Fall Forum, using advocacy, policy development, and health promotion as the main strategies for our work. Feedback generated at the OPHA Fall Forum and a follow up e-mail to those unable to attend the event, will help us define and finalize the workplan. Once the workplan is finalized, tele-conference meetings will be held during late November and early December with those interested in participating on specific projects or task groups, so that we can hit the ground running in 2011.

It is clear that there are a lot of individuals, organizations, and professions who are interested in working on the built environment portfolio and we understand the importance of working collaboratively with these different stakeholders. Therefore, membership in the OPHA Built Environment Workgroup is open to not only staff of local public health units in Ontario, but also members of organizations who collaborate with public health units on issues that affect health outcomes associated with the built environment.

Thanks to everyone for your questions, support and interest. We look forward to your efforts, ideas and involvement, to help us shape the exciting future of the OPHA Built Environment Workgroup. For more information, contact the Workgroup Chair Pat Fisher.