Linking Biodiversity and Human Health to Achieve Sustainability
49
Fig. 1 IPA model illustrating the links between influence, process and action
6 The Influence-Process-Action Model
The model above (Fig. 1) illustrates the links between the three categories mentioned
above—Influence, Process, and Action (IPA). The “state” of a person (processing),
with regard to their knowledge and attitudes, is influenced by one or more sources,
including media, family, and exposure to education. A person’s attitude and level of
knowledge will impact their behaviour (action) but may not be enough to fully
shape environmentally responsible behaviours. Other factors, including imposed
behaviours by government and schools, social norms and expectations, together with
significant experiences and frequent contact with nature, may be required to inspire
a shift towards behaviours that are more favourable to the environment.
7 Recommendations
The following are recommendations to address shortcomings identified in the course
of this study. While the University of Malta is suggested as a coordinating body for
several actions, this role may be adopted by any suitable Higher Education Institution.
Action
Coordinating body
Perform Community Outreach and Education
• Provide information about biodiversity, associated benefits, and
ecosystem services through media
University of Malta
• Distribute information leaflets about health benefits of biodiversity to
households on seed-impregnated or easily compostable paper
University of Malta
• Promote changes in mentality, encouraging brief excursions into the
natural environment without the “hassle” of food and drinks
University of Malta
• Organise workshops regarding the traditional use of plants and the
harmonisation with modern pharmaceuticals
University of Malta
(continued)
49
Fig. 1 IPA model illustrating the links between influence, process and action
6 The Influence-Process-Action Model
The model above (Fig. 1) illustrates the links between the three categories mentioned
above—Influence, Process, and Action (IPA). The “state” of a person (processing),
with regard to their knowledge and attitudes, is influenced by one or more sources,
including media, family, and exposure to education. A person’s attitude and level of
knowledge will impact their behaviour (action) but may not be enough to fully
shape environmentally responsible behaviours. Other factors, including imposed
behaviours by government and schools, social norms and expectations, together with
significant experiences and frequent contact with nature, may be required to inspire
a shift towards behaviours that are more favourable to the environment.
7 Recommendations
The following are recommendations to address shortcomings identified in the course
of this study. While the University of Malta is suggested as a coordinating body for
several actions, this role may be adopted by any suitable Higher Education Institution.
Action
Coordinating body
Perform Community Outreach and Education
• Provide information about biodiversity, associated benefits, and
ecosystem services through media
University of Malta
• Distribute information leaflets about health benefits of biodiversity to
households on seed-impregnated or easily compostable paper
University of Malta
• Promote changes in mentality, encouraging brief excursions into the
natural environment without the “hassle” of food and drinks
University of Malta
• Organise workshops regarding the traditional use of plants and the
harmonisation with modern pharmaceuticals
University of Malta
(continued)