Evolution of environmental monitoring instruments and methods

D.M. Cavallo,¹ F. Borghi,² A. Spinazzè,¹ A. Cattaneo¹ | ¹Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como; ²Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy

Introduction. In the context of Occupational Medicine and Environmental and Occupational Hygiene, environmental monitoring plays a crucial role in the assessment and management of risks to human health. In recent years, environmental monitoring has undergone a significant evolution, alongside the development of exposure sciences. Traditional methods have been supplemented and progressively integrated with new, more advanced approaches and tools, driven by the need to address complex environmental challenges and the push toward greater sustainability. Simultaneously, the introduction of algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the collection, analysis, and interpretation of environmental data, offering new capabilities but also raising questions about data management and their application in decision-making. The integration of advanced models, high-resolution data, and digital tools has transformed the approach to risk assessment and human health protection. In this context, various initiatives undertaken at the international level are contributing to redefining sustainability methodologies, standards, and objectives.

Objectives. This contribution aims to examine the evolution of environmental monitoring tools and methods in Europe, with a particular focus on advancements in the introduction of new exposure assessment methodologies and the analysis of exposure data for risk assessment. The key factors driving this development and ongoing strategic initiatives will be discussed.

Methods. The analysis is based on a review of scientific literature and European strategic initiatives in the field of exposure science and occupational chemical risk assessment. The need for integrated monitoring data management, terminology harmonization, and the development of advanced data infrastructures are considered. The priority areas in this context will be analyzed, with particular attention to the integration of exposure models, the development of digital repositories, and the relationship between environmental monitoring and biological monitoring. The potential impact of introducing advanced sensor technologies and algorithm-based data management systems in environmental monitoring is also explored, drawing insights from the applications and implications discussed in the context of the future of work. The approach adopts a systemic and interdisciplinary perspective, integrating normative, technological, and scientific viewpoints.

Results and Conclusions. The evolution of environmental monitoring is characterized by an increasing emphasis on the use of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) for chemical risk assessment, in response to the limitations of traditional methods. In parallel, significant progress is being observed in exposure data analysis, with the aim of improving the quality, accessibility, and integration of data from various sources and disciplines.¹ International initiatives aim to consolidate European research and innovation capacity in chemical risk assessment, promoting the adoption of new methodologies, the need for consistent terminology, advanced data infrastructures, and greater integration of human biomonitoring data.^1,2 The integration of AI systems for environmental data analysis promises increased efficiency and predictive capabilities, but requires attention to the new sources of risk that such systems can introduce, such as potential processing biases and issues related to legal liability in case of incorrect or harmful decisions based on such analyses.³ The convergence toward increasingly scientifically sound approaches is a key element for more effective environmental monitoring and for the protection of workers’ health. However, challenges remain regarding data interoperability and the regulatory acceptance of new methodologies. Finally, it is essential to consider the ethical and legal implications of these developments to ensure a future for environmental monitoring that is not only technologically advanced but also responsible and transparent.