Real-life applications of the VALESOR methodology

The case study approach is a well-recognised method in policy, social and research arenas, providing in-depth analysis that generates science-based insights into complex, multifaceted issues. This method ultimately empowers decision-makers by offering a foundation for evidence-driven actions.

In 2024, ten national case studies were selected across Europe, representing Denmark, France, Hungary, Italy, Montenegro, Poland, Serbia, Spain, Sweden, and the UK. These case studies will tackle various environmental and social challenges of local and national importance. Topics include economic assessments of the health co-benefits of climate policies (UK), the quantification of health burdens from ambient air pollution, and the benefits of air quality interventions (Hungary, Italy, Montenegro, Poland, Serbia, Sweden). Other studies will focus on the health impacts of chemical pollution (France, Spain) and investigate methodological issues in health risk assessments (Denmark).

The work, scheduled for 2025 under work package seven, will demonstrate the added value of the VALESOR approach in promoting health and environmental planning. It will support policymaking through legislative and regulatory actions, contribute to local capacity building at various stages of the decision-making process, and more broadly inform civil society.

/ Joseph Spadaro, independent contractor, SERC and Nataša Dragić, Faculty of Medicine of Novi Sad (MF