Brunel has advanced knowledge and expertise on the causes and the health and environmental impacts of pollution. This includes toxic chemicals that disrupt natural resources (e.g. freshwater or nutrients), material or economic cycles (e.g. plastic waste) along with extensive experience of translating knowledge into effective policies that protect the planet and humanity.
Everyday chemical threat finds global audience
World class research at Brunel led to the global regulation of chemicals that cause irreversible damage to unborn babies. Brunel’s research team pioneered an identification method to recognise endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC) – hazardous chemicals that interfere with the production or activity of hormones in the endocrine system. This research has underpinned decision-making in the European Union, USA and United Nations, specifically the UN Environmental Programme. Brunel received the Queen’s Anniversary Award in 2012 at Buckingham Palace honouring the University’s ground breaking research into the effects of hormone disrupting chemicals.