Thank you to everyone who attended our 9th Annual NC BREATHE Conference! Over 200 people joined us in Durham earlier this month to engage in interactive panel discussions, connect with others, and explore the vital link between our health and the environment.
Recordings of all sessions and panel discussions will be uploaded soon in case you missed any portion of NC BREATHE 2024.
This year’s conference was spread over two days, allowing us to highlight both groundbreaking scientific research on environmental health contaminants, and the innovative collaborations and partnerships fighting air pollution to build healthier, more resilient communities. Health professionals, policymakers, and community leaders from across the state all brought their unique perspectives, fostering a dynamic environment for exchanging ideas and building new relationships.
Day 1 featured experts and cross-disciplinary researchers sharing their insights on the emerging environmental threat of PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals.” Panel discussions and presentations explored both the threat PFAS exposure poses to community health and potential solutions for preventing PFAS contamination and cleaning up existing pollution.
Renowned environmental justice advocate Harold Mitchell Jr. set the tone for Day 2 of the conference with his keynote address. Mitchell, and the panel discussions that followed him, examined the challenges and opportunities facing communities in the era of climate change, while highlighting the importance of collective action in addressing environmental and social injustices.
Special thanks to all the students who took part in this year’s Student Poster Presentation. Every participant contributed excellent work, and we extend our congratulations to Edrian Paul Liao and Zed Bates-Norris for their outstanding achievements!
We will publish a report highlighting the underlying themes and policy recommendations that arose from our conference proceedings and participant discussions. Look for it later this year and share it with your elected representatives.
Thank you for making NC BREATHE 2024 such a resounding success!
