How do chemicals affect health, ecosystems and the economy? How can we create a better understanding and greater awareness of pollutant risks?
Chemicals in the environment are an increasing threat to ecosystems and human health. They enter soil, water and air through industry, agriculture and everyday use, where they often persist for years or decades. These include pesticides, pharmaceutical residues, microplastics and so-called “forever chemicals” PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances).
Many of these substances are toxic, have endocrine disrupting effects or persist in the environment and can accumulate in food chains. They not only lead to a loss of biodiversity, but can also endanger human health – for example through contaminated drinking water, contaminated food or air.
“Given the growing trend towards biomaterials, it is crucial to bring the chemical safety of both conventional plastics and bio-based, biodegradable alternatives to the political agenda.”
Dr. Carolin Völker, Research Scientist
Our research is dedicated to the social processes and conflicting goals that characterize the way we deal with chemical risks and refers to social-ecological justice as a normative framework. We examine societal perception, promote the transfer of knowledge to raise awareness and develop ways to involve society more closely in political decision-making processes.
Our research topics include the sustainable use of plastics, the risks of microplastics and PFAS and strategies for reducing pharmaceutical substances in water.
More on the topic of plastics:
ChemKom investigates how scientific organizations, industry associations, authorities and NGOs strategically communicate scientific content, with a focus on per- and polyfluorinated chemicals (PFAS).
