Abstract

Abstract Summary

Overview

In February 2021, a group of over one hundred scientists and policy experts convened in a web-based Workshop to address the handling of divergent evaluations of evidence and scientific uncertainties. This Workshop aimed to this aimed to expedite protective measures for human health and the environment, considering exposures to numerous hazardous agents.

Findings

• The February 2021 Workshop was based on prior initiatives by the European Environment Agency and made use of various case studies reported in 'Late Lessons from Early Warnings.'
• Discussions centered around several hazardous agents like Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), Extremely Low Frequency - Electrical Magnetic Fields (ELF-EMF), glyphosate, and Bisphenol A (BPA), highlighting delayed risk reduction measures.
• Strategies proposed include improvements in data usage, enhancing timeliness, boosting transparency, consistency in evaluations, and minimizing bias and financial conflicts of interest.

Conclusion

The Workshop's conclusions stress the importance of creating "actionable evidence" to support decisive and timely interventions to shield public health and the environment from hazardous exposures. These recommendations are designed to be implemented across various governance levels, from local to international.