Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo today said 'One Health' must move from policy to action. 

He stressed the need for building resilient agrifood systems and sustainable livelihoods by anticipating, mitigating and preventing risks instead of merely responding after emergencies occur.

The environment minister made the remarks while delivering the keynote address at the plenary session titled "One Health for a Better Life: From Emergency Preparedness and Response to Resilient Agrifood Systems and Sustainable Livelihoods", held at the Plenary Hall of the Food and  Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Rome, Italy,  according to a message received here.

He said the health of people and animals, ecosystems and the environment are closely interconnected. 

"A risk arising in one area can quickly affect the others. Bangladesh's food and livelihood systems are closely linked to agriculture, livestock, fisheries and natural resources," he said. 

At the same time, Mintoo said, climate change, environmental degradation, biodiversity loss and emerging health risks are creating growing pressures.