Pollution in the natural environment

Aligned with EU's Zero Pollution Action Plan, we work to accelerate the transition towards an environment free from harmful emissions. Our ambition is to reduce pollutants released into air, water, and soil; limit exposure for people and ecosystems; and improve the removal, treatment, and containment of contaminants.

Through advanced monitoring networks, predictive environmental models, and animal-free risk assessment methods, we enhance our ability to understand pollution pathways and their impacts. We also develop next-generation decontamination technologies to restore and protect natural environments.

Our fields of action

We create high-resolution environmental monitoring tools, including micro-climate sensors, remote-sensing devices, and ecological and chemical data collectors. These deployable systems deliver real-time air, water, and ecosystem data, supported by AI, IoT, and satellite communications. Using Digital Twin models, we dynamically track and manage natural resources, while designing sustainable, recyclable sensors for long-term environmental monitoring.

We focus on identifying, tracking, and mitigating emerging pollutants. We develop monitoring networks, biosensors for pathogen detection, and advanced models to assess pollutant risks and guide water management and public health decisions. We also innovate sustainable treatment solutions—from bio-based sorbents and advanced membranes to optimized nitrogen-removal reactors and IoT-enabled monitoring—to eliminate persistent chemicals, microplastics, pathogens, and nutrients. Through close collaboration with national authorities, communal water services, and industry, we support a national RDI programme on water sanitation and deliver cost-effective tools, benchmarking studies, and regulatory guidance.

We’re pioneering next-generation, animal-free methods to assess the safety of chemicals and nanomaterials. Using cutting-edge lab models, AI, and advanced imaging, we track how substances interact with ecosystems and human health, supporting the design of safer, sustainable materials. Our work also strengthens regulatory tools and policies, helping ensure chemicals are both innovative and responsible—today and for the future.

Our solutions

LIST fights pollution and boosts environmental resilience with a powerful mix of science and community action. Our Eco-hydrology Observatory tracks water, soil, air and life interactions in the Earth’s Critical Zone — offering key insights into ecosystem health and climate impacts. With the CYANOWATCH project, citizens can report cyanobacterial blooms in Luxembourg and the Moselle, helping us monitor water quality in real time. Invitrolize, a spin-off of LIST,uses advanced, human-relevant testing to assess chemical toxicity and drive safer regulatory standards. These tools, and more, show how LIST leads environmental protection and sustainability.