Bupa kicks off $1-million environmental action amid rising weather risks

Bupa has kicked off its 2024 Healthy Cities Challenge in Australia and New Zealand, announcing a collaboration with Landcare Australia to convert physical activity into US$1 million in funding. The funds will be used for environmental restoration projects amid an increase in the economic impact of extreme weather events across Australia.

The challenge encourages participation from Bupa employees, community members, and corporate partners to adopt active lifestyles throughout September. The physical activity generated will translate into funding for restoring nature and creating green spaces in urban areas.

Bupa’s 2024 Healthy Cities Challenge

This year’s challenge follows Bupa research showing that nearly 50% of Australians engage in running, walking, or cycling, with many participants citing mental health benefits as their motivation.

Nick Stone, CEO of Bupa APAC, highlighted that the 2023 programme’s funding has already supported various community planting initiatives.

“By combining physical activity with environmental action, the Healthy Cities Challenge brings to life our belief that to have healthy people, you need to have a healthy planet,” he said.

He added that the company aims to build on the 650 million steps achieved in last year’s challenge, with a goal of reaching one billion steps in 2024 to support additional green space revitalisation.

Bupa’s partners for the 2024 Healthy Cities Challenge

Bupa is also partnering with New Zealand’s Project Crimson Trust, which will share the $1-million allocation for local environmental projects with Landcare Australia.

Landcare Australia CEO Dr Shane Norrish emphasised that the partnership provides a valuable opportunity to demonstrate the link between human health and environmental health on a national level.

Bupa Health Services recently acquired London Medical, a specialist outpatient clinic located in the UK capital’s renowned medical district, Harley Street.