Redesigning Health Systems for a Salutogenic Future: A Call for Action

Addressing the challenges of climate change and global warming necessitates ecological design that emphasizes efficient energy use and the preservation of clean air, water, and soil. We need to envision hospitals that are as efficient and cost-effective as a “Toyota Corolla,” maximizing output with limited resources. The active participation of individuals in managing their own health and medical conditions is crucial. To effectively support and promote this dynamic system, new approaches in building design must incorporate salutogenic principles, fostering environments that enhance well-being. By good design, we can create hospital environments that not only optimize resource use but also promote the well-being of patients and staff.
Moreover, a holistic approach to designing care environments includes exposure to diverse forms of beauty—such as visual art, music, nature, and architecture—which profoundly impacts mental and physical health by exerting neurotrophic effects on various brain regions.
In alignment with these principles, the World Congress on Design and Health (WCDH) stands as a vanguard in promoting this transformative agenda.

Suggested Themes for WCDH 2025:

•The value of good design, case study of design for healthy society
• Healthy cities, urban health, livable and walkable cities
• Salutogenic design for healthy communities - Active Aging
• The ‘salutogenic hospital’: efficient and cost-effective
• Case studies, healthy housing, salutogenic learning environments,
• Art, culture and health: Stimulating built environments
• Developing international benchmarks on design and health
• Designing healthy workplaces in all settings
• AI in health infrastructure: Integrating technology, services within the built environment