Co-creating Policy Through Living Lab Collaboration
Environmental health research is complex, often producing a wealth of data that can be difficult to translate into practical guidance for decision-makers. The ENACT project is bridging this gap through an innovative approach that ensures scientific evidence informs real-world policies in healthcare and urban planning.
A key initiative within ENACT focuses on co-developing a strategic Policy Brief that guides policymakers on integrating environmental considerations into health systems. This process is rooted in a Living Lab methodology, which actively involves end-users and stakeholders directly in real-world settings. By doing so, ENACT ensures that policy recommendations are not only scientifically robust but also practically applicable.
From Evidence to Action: Engaging Stakeholders and Shaping Policy
Central to this effort is extensive stakeholder engagement. ENACT has mapped out a diverse network of policy and regulatory participants across Europe with more than 50 potential contributors, including national health authorities, public health insurers, hospital management teams, and sector-specific agencies like cardiology societies and environmental protection bodies. This inclusive approach ensures that the perspectives of a wide range of decision-makers inform the development of ENACT’s Policy Brief.
The process of creating these recommendations is structured and evidence-driven. It includes reviewing current regulations, synthesizing insights from ENACT pilot studies, and gathering input through surveys and interviews. To make complex scientific data accessible, ENACT emphasizes user-friendly presentation formats, such as infographics and clear Q&A sections, translating exposomic findings into actionable guidance.
By integrating environmental factors into clinical practice and urban planning, this collaborative approach aims to foster resilient health policies that address the real-world challenges faced by communities. The resulting Policy Brief represents a concrete step in turning environmental health science into effective public action.