Through a variety of chemical, biological and physical factors, humans are modifying ecosystems, often with negative results. Environmental changes, in turn, affect the dynamics of human populations.

Pollution and environmental toxocology

Multiple stressors (chemical, physical or pathogenic) and/or pollutants (pesticides, pharmaceuticals, microplastics, endocrine disruptors, neurotoxins, atmospheric residues) have an impact not only on individuals but also on ecosystems. Research at ILEE ranges from single molecules (e.g., gas composition analysis) to organisms (physiological, immune, nervous or reproductive system responses) to ecosystem functioning.

Specialized instruments for molecular spectroscopy are developed and provide technological innovations. Aquatic organisms (fish, crustaceans and amphibians) are used as bio-indicators under natural or experimental conditions to study phenotypic immune and organizational responses (assessed at the gene expression level). Conceptual studies resulting from mathematical models are combined with specific case studies based on experiments with plankton in microcosms.

Environmental impact on human populations

Droughts, land use, environmental and health risks all have an impact on the distribution and migration of human populations. Different vulnerable groups react differently to different risks. Spatial scales and geographical contexts (Burkina Faso, Senegal, Ecuador, Philippines, for example) also influence population dynamics, but also disease risks. Understanding and measuring these dynamics is essential for epidemic control, economic planning and disaster response.

Our research focuses on the interaction between environment and migration at the household or individual level, as well as on the interactions between the different agents (humans, vectors, animal hosts and environment) responsible for the transmission of vector-borne diseases and zoonoses. At ILEE, we use innovative methods (resilience indicators, games, focus groups, censuses, etc.) to capture the great complexity and integrated approaches of spatial issues in epidemiology.

The researchers involved

  • Frederik de Laender, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Environmental and Evolutionary Biology Research Unit (URBE)
  • Sabine Henry, Faculty of Science, Department of Geography
  • Catherine Linard, Faculty of Science, Department of Geography
  • Patrick Kestemont, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Environmental and Evolutionary Biology Research Unit (URBE)
  • Muriel Lepère, Faculty of Science, Department of Physics
  • Frédéric Silvestre, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Environmental and Evolutionary Biology Research Unit (URBE)