A Japanese non-profit organization (NPO), the Center of Environmental Health Science for Future Generations, launched a project in April 2005 aimed at establishing an accreditation system for the profession of "Environmental Health Interpreter," meaning someone who can effectively translate complex scientific studies into information that can be understood by the general public.

The center was founded in July 2004 by Chisato Mori, professor at the Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, and his group, with the aim of improving the health and quality of life of future generations, including children and those yet unborn. The group has been studying the environmental impact of chemical substances on human health and possible countermeasures from the perspective of environment-oriented preventive medicine. In addition to conducting research and providing information on the harmful effects of chemical substances and preventive measures, diagnostics and treatments, the center also provides training in environmental education and preventive medicine.

An Environmental Health Interpreter is supposed to provide accurate, informative knowledge on the effects of endocrine disruptors and other chemical substances, and promote risk management, including preventive measures for individuals and households. Qualification as an Environmental Health Interpreter will be given to those who complete a full training course and pass the examinations given by the center.

The training program was co-developed with GRACE Co., an environmentally friendly human resource company, and will run for six months starting in September 2005, with the first qualifying examination to be given in spring 2006.




Posted: 2005/10/14 08:20:39 AM
Japanese version

TAG NGO/Citizen , Non-manufacturing industry , System/Law