A new center led by Emory University, in partnership with the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Morehouse School of Medicine, Spelman College, and Texas Tech University, will translate environmental data into practical health guidance for families, clinicians, and policymakers.

Emory serves as center director with a consortium of six research institutions, coordinating five interconnected studies on exposure, health, toxicology, exposure pathways, and remediation methods.

The center will collaborate with partner institutions to conduct comprehensive studies that map exposure pathways and assess health outcomes while exploring remediation approaches.

The project highlights the local impact of long-term chemical exposure in Glynn County and aims to improve chemical awareness and health outcomes for Brunswick residents.

Overall, the effort seeks to translate complex environmental data into practical information to help families, clinicians, and policymakers make healthier decisions, leveraging community partnerships and educational outreach.

Community engagement is a core component, supporting youth education and outreach as the center translates research into actionable guidance for local residents.

The initiative combines exposure science, health research, and direct community partnerships to deliver clear, practical guidance.

Glynn County hosts several Superfund sites, and a 2023 pilot study showed elevated levels of certain toxicants in a substantial portion of residents, prompting expanded research.

The grant expands on the 2023 pilot, which found higher-than-average levels of a toxicant at the former LCP Chemicals site and another chemical at the Hercules Brunswick Facility among participants.

A community meeting is scheduled for June 24 at Howard Coffin Park to share updates from Healthy Coastal Neighborhoods and Emory scientists.

Public engagement, including a town hall, is emphasized to discuss expanded exposure studies and residents’ concerns about chemical awareness.

The research aims to extend beyond Georgia to provide broader insights into industrial pollution and translate findings into real-world public health strategies.