The built environment and the way we design our cities and communities provides a context for civil society and has a huge influence on our lifestyles and our health.

Nearly 1 in 4 deaths across the globe are due to environmental factors. Every year an estimated 12.6 million people die as a result of living or working in an unhealthy environment.
In developed countries, healthier environments could significantly reduce the incidence of
cancers, cardiovascular diseases, asthma, lower respiratory infections, musculoskeletal diseases, road traffic injuries, poisonings, and drowning.