Maria do Carmo Barreto
Assistant Professor (IERS Group)

Volcanic archipelagos such as the Azores are often “sold” as natural paradises and nature-based activities are the main attractions for visitors. Yet, most of these islands are not exempt from risks that stem either from natural or anthropogenic sources. While short exposure times to these factors may be negligible, this is not the case when we consider resident populations. The IERS group of cE3c, closely working with researchers from the volcanology IVARG center, has been studying the putative effects of natural and anthropogenic environmental changes on human health. Concerning natural impacts, the effects of volcanic origin and residual activity on soil and human health have been studied. The effect of soil management, such as intensive tillage and pesticide use on soil health and composition have also been assessed, and biomarkers indicative of soil health are proposed. Althoug this work is still being carried out, patterns of these impacts stand out which may contribute to informed decision-making by regional authorities and citizens.