Abstract
Given the challenges of climate change and population growth, it is essential for planners to think about the health of people and the planet in an integrated way. Until recently the profession has focused on environmental sustainability without necessarily making the link to human health. This is despite mounting evidence for the critical role urban planning plays in supporting human health and wellbeing. Walkable and mixed use urban areas, active and public transport modes, open space and locally sourced fresh food, together with safe and well-designed neighbourhoods, are the foundations of both environmental and human health. Regional plans set the framework within which these outcomes can be realised. This paper examines how the South East Queensland Regional Plan 2009–2031 proposes to manage human health in relation to environmental sustainability. Using a detailed textual analysis of the Plan, the paper investigates how well the Plan incorporates a comprehensive suite of inter-sectoral provisions that will build the strategic policy foundation for supporting human health and environmental sustainability in a high growth scenario. Further, consideration is given to how the specific provisions will translate into future actions and development requirements for the Region.
Notes
1. The tables are too long to include here, but are available from the corresponding author upon request.