Building occupational therapy practice ecological based occupations and ecosystem sustainability: exploring the concept of eco-occupation to support intergenerational occupational justice

Abstract

This article proposes that occupational therapists must take on the role of agents of change in order to act in an eco-responsible way towards the population. Our recent literature review explores the critique of the foundations of the occupational therapist profession through the perspective of professional practices focused on eco-systems, and its respect rather than its exploitation. Several concepts have been defined in order to support occupational therapists in understanding the current and future challenges of populations, especially those most vulnerable to the climate and ecological crisis. These concepts thus aim to maintain the balance of ecosystems, promote eco-occupations and support intergenerational occupational justice. It is therefore important for us, occupational therapists, to be rooted in eco-humanist values, to be aware of the real role we face as citizens of the world. It is also about engaging us to build on our professional identity to give meaning to our new professional activities and support eco-social and sustainable occupational therapy.