Environmental Health Research Department
The Environmental Health Research Department comprises four divisions and conducts research to establish scientific evidence for safeguarding public health and create a safer living environment.
To assess environmental health status, the department conducts national environmental monitoring, studies on the health impacts of environmental exposure on residents in vulnerable areas and risk assessments of children’s products. In addition, the National Biobank for Environmental Health secures and stores environmental samples including humans and biological resources to support the development of long-term analytical indicators and environmental pollution studies.
Risk assessments, including toxicity tests of environmental hazards on humans and ecosystems, NAMs(New Approach Methods), exposure assessments and the operation of the GLP system, are carried out to develop proactive risk management strategies. The department also works to establish a foundation for responding to global environmental regulations on emerging chemicals, such as nanomaterials. Furthermore, research on persistent organic pollutants is being carried out to investigate their distribution characteristics in the environment and to standardize analytical methods for the implementation of the Stockholm Convention.
Multidisciplinary research, including epidemiological, toxicological, and clinical case studies, investigates the various health impacts that can be caused by humidifier disinfectants. Additionally, physical and mental health monitoring programs are in place to provide medical support for victims.
To foster a pleasant living environment, the department also conducts research on the management and mitigation of indoor air pollutants from building materials, noise and vibration, asbestos, and radon. Additionally, cutting-edge research is being explored using advanced scientific technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), satellites, and drones to prevent environmental pollution including light pollution.
