Composing Worlds: Humanities, Health and Wellbeing in the XXI Century Towards a More Sustainable World

This book provides an interdisciplinary exploration of how the humanities, social sciences, and health sciences can contribute to addressing the pressing challenges of the Anthropocene. From climate change and biodiversity loss to environmental degradation and public health threats, the book examines the interconnected crises of our time and offers innovative frameworks for fostering sustainability, resilience, and equity. It highlights the cultural, ethical, and philosophical dimensions of these issues to underscore the importance of collaboration across disciplines to shape a just and sustainable future.

Key topics include the role of art, literature, and philosophy in raising environmental awareness, the impact of urban green spaces on social participation and health, and the integration of mental health into sustainability discussions. The book also explores eco-anxiety, digital technologies, and citizen science as pivotal aspects of contemporary socio-environmental challenges. Through case studies and theoretical insights, it demonstrates the value of combining scientific expertise with cultural and ethical understanding to create effective solutions for global and local problems.

This book is a valuable resource for researchers, students, policymakers, and practitioners in the humanities, social sciences, health, and environmental studies. It invites readers to rethink their relationship with nature and society while inspiring transformative actions that prioritize sustainability and equity. Whether addressing global crises or local community initiatives, this work offers practical insights and fresh perspectives for anyone committed to building a healthier, more sustainable future.

Walter Leal Filho is a senior professor and head of the Research and Transfer Centre “Sustainable Development and Climate Change Management” at Hamburg University of Applied Sciences in Germany, and chair of Environment and Technology at Manchester Metropolitan University, UK. He is the initiator of the Word Sustainable Development Symposia (WSSD-U) series and chairs the Inter-University Sustainable Development Research Programme. Professor Leal Filho has written, co-written, edited, or co-edited more than 800 publications, including books, book chapters, and papers in refereed journals.