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
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