Unit 11: Legacy and sustainability

Leaving a viable public health legacy and sustainable improvements in public health infrastructure and capacity should be a key aim of those involved with preparing for a major international event. The legacy can embrace improvements in the public health systems in the host country, improvements in health behavior and health status of the population, and shifting attitudes on the impact of ecological sustainability on health.  Experience in host countries suggests it can be difficult to maintain a focus on legacy in the face of other pressures on preparing for the event but, if done, it can be successful and rewarding.