European joint programme HBM4EU - Bridging science and policy: experiences and lessons learned from the key partners in the scientific steering of the initiative

Abstract

The European Joint Programme HBM4EU was established to address politically relevant questions on chemical risks to public health through a targeted human biomonitoring research programme. Running from 2017 to 2022, it was co-financed by the EU's Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme (grant agreement No. 733032) and national or institutional funds from participating partners. HBM4EU was the first large European initiative to establish a robust science-to-policy interface by systematically aligning research activities with concrete regulatory needs. The programme introduced a structured governance model that actively involved policy-makers at European and national levels, scientists from multiple disciplines, and other stakeholders. A transparent prioritisation process defined key chemical groups as scientific focus areas, each supported by dedicated topic leaders. These leaders formulated relevant policy questions and translated them into targeted scientific tasks implemented via annual work programmes. To support regulatory uptake, HBM4EU produced tailored, policy-oriented communication products for all priority chemicals. At the end of the project, a structured survey among project partners assessed collaboration between scientists and policy-makers, as well as coordination, management and knowledge transfer. The results highlighted factors enabling effective communication and mutual understanding at the science-policy interface. They showed that shared governance promoted transparency, fair distribution of effort and synergies, and underlined the importance of continuous dialogue to ensure lasting impact. Overall, the findings provide practical guidance for future EU-funded projects seeking strong scientific excellence and policy relevance.