Ecosystems and Human Health in the EU

Teacher(s)

Bailleux Antoine; Cingotti Natacha;

Language

English

Main themes

Through a combination of case-studies and theoretical presentations this course examines EU sectoral policies regarding the safeguard of ecosystems and human health. They will cover inter alia:

• the regulation of chemicals (REACH, CLP, sectoral legislation (toys, cosmetics, etc.)), pesticides and biocides
• air quality policies (including industrial emissions)
• water quality policies
• biodiversity and nature policies
• selected topics of general food law (additives, GMOs, etc.).

The course pays particular attention to the relationship between science, risk regulation and law. It applies a systemic approach, underlying the links between these various policies and the main challenges the EU is facing in these areas.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :

explain the content of the various bodies of legislation analysed understand the interactions between these different regulatory fields identify and critically analyse the roles played by the key actors involved in the shaping of such policies (Commission, European Parliament, Council, comitology committees, agencies, national authorities, interest groups, courts etc.)   understand the basic concepts and principles of regulatory science and risk management.

Content

The main topics covered are
- The general principles, key concepts, institutions and agencies that govern this policy field  
- General Food Law
- The regulation of chemicals (REACH, CLP, cosmetics, toys, pesticides)
- EU policies in the field of water (drinking water, groundwater, surface water, bathing water, marine water))
- EU policies in the field of air (air quality, industrial emissions)
- EU policies in the field of biodiversity (common agricultural policy, Natura 2000, Nature Restoration Law, Forests legislation, Soil monitoring)

Teaching methods

Ex cathedra teaching, with the intervention of external speakers

Evaluation methods

Written, closed book exam

Faculty or entity

> IEEB