Outdoor play: Current status, challenges, and opportunities in the Asia region

In September 2025, a globally informed 2025 Position Statement on Active Outdoor Play will be launched to renew momentum for advancing outdoor play worldwide for planetary health. This study was conducted to support its development, by providing a comprehensive overview of the current landscape, challenges, and opportunities for outdoor play specifically within the Asia region, in parallel with five other regional reviews for global representation. Environmental scan, expert consultation, and thematic analysis of qualitative feedback were conducted. The results indicated that outdoor play in Asia has collectively declined over the past decade, despite its well-established benefits for the health and well-being of both humans and the environment. This study also identified a multitude of factors that influence outdoor play within the socioecological framework. Understanding regional challenges and leveraging culturally grounded strengths is a critical first step toward implementing locally relevant policies and community-driven initiatives. Policy makers should reframe outdoor play not as a luxury or extracurricular activity, but as a public health imperative and fundamental right for all children. Strategic investments in urban infrastructure, safety, inclusive programming, and educational curricula can foster more supportive environments. By recognizing outdoor play as essential for planetary health, Asian countries can lead the way in building more active, equitable, and resilient communities.