The wellbeing of modern industrial societies is based on the flows of energy and materials. This affords humanity a high degree of mobility, living comfort and other amenities. The downside – as shown by the finding of UV filter compounds in brown trout tissue – is that in many products chemicals are used which find their way into the environment (for example Swiss lakes and rivers) where they may well cause detrimental effects. Problematic substances may also be set free during production and disposal processes. In its research program entitled «Technosphere – Atmosphere» (TECAT) the Empa is investigating the production and emission of these pollutants. It is working on understanding the fundamental science in order to fully understand the processes involved, and to help it create innovative solutions to the problems of reducing pollution. As a part of the National Research Program 50 Empa scientists, working closely with colleagues from more than 20 other research institutions, are investigating the effects on humans, animals and ecosystems of endocrine disruptors such as UV filter compounds or flame retardants | 
