CERJ Birmingham Joins GAHP as a Council Member

The Global Alliance on Health and Pollution (GAHP) is excited to welcome the Centre for Environmental Research and Justice (CERJ) at the University of Birmingham as its newest Council Member. This collaboration strengthens the shared commitment to tackling pollution, improving public health, and promoting environmental justice worldwide.

A Shared Commitment to Environmental Justice

CERJ is dedicated to finding practical solutions to environmental pollution. By focusing on research, and education on science-based governance interventions that will protect ecosystems and public health. Their work is driven by a strong belief in justice, ensuring that communities impacted by pollution have a voice and access to solutions. CERJ recognizes that pollution often affects disadvantaged communities the most.

"The inequitable exposure of poor, minority, and disenfranchised populations to toxic chemicals, contaminated air and water, unsafe workplaces and other forms of pollution, and the consequent disproportionate burden among these populations of pollution-related disease, often in violation of their human rights."

— Landrigan, P.J. et al., 2018, The Lancet Commission on Pollution and Health

Many people around the world face exposure to toxic chemicals in their air, water, and workplaces, leading to serious health risks. Through science-based solutions, CERJ works to bring fairness and accountability to these communities, ensuring they receive the protection and support they need. With the same shared vision, GAHP and CERJ joined hands to reduce the harmful effects of toxic chemicals on both people and the environment.

An overview of CERJ’s Work in Pollution Research and Policy

CERJ is at the forefront of research aimed at improving how chemical risks are assessed and regulated. With a commitment to innovation, the organization is exploring new methodologies to ensure public and environmental safety. Their work in Precision Toxicology is helping to develop safer and faster ways to identify harmful chemicals without relying on animal testing. They are part of the EU-funded PrecisionTox project, which brings together 15 institutions across Europe and North America to improve chemical safety regulations.

Building on this work, CERJ is actively contributing to large-scale initiatives such as the Partnership for the Assessment of Risks from Chemicals (PARC), a major European project set to transform regulatory toxicology in the coming years. CERJ is involved in efforts to phase out animal testing for chemical safety in the UK, the United States, and Europe.

In addition to regulatory advancements, CERJ is developing bio-based solutions to prevent toxic substances from entering the environment through wastewater discharge. Additionally, CERJ pursues projects that offer solutions and policy recommendations for assessing and regulating environmental chemical mixtures, which represent real-world exposure conditions for people and wildlife yet are currently unregulated.

Beyond scientific research, CERJ is taking actionable steps to apply its expertise in real-world settings. The organization is already collaborating with GAHP to secure funding for pollution reduction initiatives in Madagascar. This project aims to improve health outcomes for nearly 13 million people, addressing pollution challenges that threaten both human well-being and biodiversity.

Alongside its research and advocacy efforts, CERJ is dedicated to training the next generation of environmental advocates and policymakers. The organization offers the MSc Human and Environmental Toxicology with Law, a one-year interdisciplinary master’s program designed to equip students with the skills needed to tackle pollution. This program integrates toxicology and environmental regulation, preparing graduates for careers in science, research, and policy.

How CERJ Will Contribute to GAHP’s Work

As a Council Member, CERJ will play an active role in advancing GAHP’s mission. The organization plans to support the development of Health and Pollution Action Plans (HPAPs), focusing on securing funding from the UK, Europe, and North America to implement these strategies. Their research will help shape policies that address pollution-related health risks while working closely with GAHP to turn scientific findings into practical policies.

CERJ will also provide expert guidance by drawing insights from specialists across multiple fields at the University of Birmingham. Their involvement in GAHP’s leadership will bring valuable perspectives from environmental sciences, law, health, engineering, and social sciences. In addition, CERJ will offer training programs to help professionals, students, and environmental advocates gain the skills needed to address pollution challenges worldwide.

From Research to Action: A Partnership for Change

CERJ shared their thoughts on joining GAHP, stating:

“In 2017, GAHP brought global attention to the severe impact of pollution on human health, especially in low-income communities. We are proud to partner with GAHP to ensure that our research and training programs directly support those who need them most.”

By working together, GAHP and CERJ will strengthen efforts to reduce pollution and protect public health. This partnership will help influence environmental policies at the national and global levels, ensuring that solutions are backed by science and designed to create lasting change.

For more information on CERJ, visit CERJ’s website, and connect with CERJ on LinkedIn.