Global evidence synthesis on land-use change and zoonotic risks

The COVID-19 pandemic has spotlighted the growing threat of zoonotic diseases, often exacerbated by land-use changes such as deforestation and habitat fragmentation. We conducted a systematic literature review (2000–2024) to assess how different types of land-use change 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 land-use changes such as deforestation and urbanization often increase transmission risks, particularly for diseases transmitted by mosquitos and rodents, while some restoration strategies (for example, reforestation and 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. Our findings are available through an open-access online atlas, which includes supporting case studies and policy briefs to inform One Health-oriented restoration planning. Land-use change, among other anthropogenic factors, has led to increased levels of zoonotic disease transmission. The authors assess how land-use change and restoration activities impact zoonotic disease transmission, providing an online tool useful for One Health-oriented restoration planning.