ePO 111 – Strategic engagement in environmental and occupational health: contribution of ENSP NOVA to the european research landscape
Carla Martins1, Bruna Riesenberger2, Marília Silva Paulo1, Maria José Minhoto Diniz da Costa1, Joana Morais2, Otilia Boghenco2, Susana Viegas1
1 NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, CHRC, REAL, CCAL, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal, 2 NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
Aligned with EU policies on environmental and occupational risks in the context of climate change, the Occupational and Environmental Health Department at NOVA National School of Public Health (OEHD – ENSP NOVA) contributes through its participation in Horizon Europe initiatives (K‑HEALTHinAIR, INTERCAMBIO, NEMESIS, EXPOSIM, PARC) and by offering two postgraduate programmes (Master in Applied Toxicology to Environmental Health and Master in Environmental Health and Climate Change).
These initiatives aim to advance knowledge and innovation in environmental and occupational health, supporting evidence-based policies. They address key risk factors such as indoor air pollution, exposure to chemicals in environmental and occupational settings, and heat stress. The educational programmes reinforce capacity building in Environmental Health, Toxicology, Epidemiology, and Public Health.
The projects apply diverse methodologies to assess exposures and risks in multiple contexts and identify sources. Integrated strategies include collecting biological samples (urine, blood, hair, buccal cells), industrial hygiene samples (hand wipes, wristbands), and environmental samples (air, settled dust), complemented by detailed surveys. Several occupational exposure studies are underway in Portuguese companies across various sectors.
The results are expected to guide effective technical and policy measures to reduce emissions and human exposure. By deepening understanding of exposure pathways and informing targeted interventions, these initiatives strengthen public health protection. At the same time, the postgraduate programmes equip graduates to translate scientific evidence into practical solutions, promote research and innovation, and support safer environments. Altogether, this strategy reinforces OEHD‑ENSP NOVA’ commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and its contribution to integrated health research and environmental sustainability within the Horizon Europe framework.