Global evidence synthesis on land use change and zoonotic risks

Citation

Fell A, Jagadesh S, Duthie AB, Kirkpatrick L & Bunnefeld N (2025) Global evidence synthesis on land use change and zoonotic risks. Nature Sustainability. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41893-025-01750-2; https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-025-01750-2

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has spotlighted the growing threat of zoonotic diseases, often exacerbated by land-use changes (LUC) such as deforestation and habitat fragmentation. We conducted a systematic literature review (2000–2024) to assess how different types of LUC affect zoonotic disease transmission, summarizing key findings and trends in geographic focus on the vectors/hosts/reservoirs and pathogens studied, in addition to identifying research gaps. We also evaluated the potential of restoration interventions to mitigate disease risks. Our analysis shows that LUC such as deforestation and urbanisation often increase transmission risks, particularly for disease transmitted by mosquitos and rodents, while some restoration strategies (e.g. reforestation, wetland conservation) can reduce these risks. However, effects vary by disease group and region. The literature remains geographically biased, with most studies concentrated in wealthier regions despite higher disease burdens in low-income areas. We propose 50 high-priority locations, primarily in Western Africa and Southeast Asia, for future research. Findings are available through an open-access online atlas, which includes supporting case studies and policy briefs to inform One Health–oriented restoration planning.

Keywords
Zoonotic disease, Ecosystem restoration, Land-use change, Biodiversity, Public health, Landscape degradation