The National Institute of Public Health is pleased to invite you to the 21st Annual Meeting and 17th HEPA Europe Conference, taking place from 8–10th September 2026. Organised jointly with WHO/Europe, the conference will focus on Green Pathways to Health: the synergy between green spaces and the 24-hour movement behaviour paradigm to enhance public health and reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and musculoskeletal disorders.
The 2026 conference will explore how daily patterns of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep interact within a 24-hour cycle, and how green spaces can serve as accessible, cost-free and equitable environments that support these behaviours. Participants will engage in discussions on innovative approaches, policies and practices that promote healthier, more active and more resilient communities.
Green spaces offer powerful, accessible settings for promoting physical and mental health. They encourage movement, reduce sedentary behaviour, support stress reduction, improve cognitive function and contribute to healthier sleep patterns. Their restorative effects make them a key element in environments that support holistic health across the entire day.
By integrating the principles of health-enhancing physical activity (HEPA) with the 24-hour movement framework, the conference aims to spotlight holistic, sustainable and equitable solutions for preventing NCDs. The event will emphasise the role of urban planning in creating active, inclusive environments and highlight policies that support equal access to green spaces for all population groups.
The conference will be held in Ljubljana, Slovenia, one of Europe’s greenest capitals. Known for its extensive pedestrian zones, numerous green parks and commitment to sustainable mobility, Ljubljana demonstrates how well-designed urban environments can foster physical activity, reduce sedentary behaviour, and promote overall well-being.
Hosting HEPA 2026 in such a setting provides participants with first-hand experience of how green urban design can influence public health — aligning perfectly with this year’s conference theme.
The National Institute of Public Health (NIJZ) is Slovenia’s central public health institution, dedicated to educating, protecting and improving the health of the population through prevention, awareness campaigns, research and evidence-based policymaking. With over 400 experts and strong collaborations across sectors and NGOs, NIJZ plays a key role in monitoring population health, identifying threats, developing preventive measures and supporting health-friendly policies.
As a long-standing and active member of HEPA Europe, NIJZ regularly contributes to working groups, initiatives and leadership efforts within the network. By organising HEPA 2026, NIJZ continues its commitment to advancing international cooperation, disseminating new knowledge and supporting the development of public health professionals.
More about NIJZ: nijz.si/en
