We hosted our annual Collaboration Forum on 15th July 2025. Martine Paynter, the Centre’s senior administrator, reports on a day of lively debate and exploration.

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Held at the University of Exeter’s beautiful Penryn campus, the forum brought health and environment researchers together with businesses to explore the mutual benefits of working with one another.

Attendees were welcomed with a showcase of postgraduate research posters (a must at any academic event!) before joining a series of inspiring presentations from both internal and external experts.

Speakers included John Brown from the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, long-time collaborator Mark England from Coastline Housing, and Dr Charlotte Featherstone from Cornwall’s newly initiated Health Determinants Research Collaboration.

Dr Lewis Elliott spoke about the exciting opportunities for learning in the Centre, including the MSc in Environment and Human Health and CPD modules, whilst Jenny Richards shared her experiences of being part of the invaluable HEPE public participation group.

During the afternoon session, participants got to stretch their legs and took part in several interactive workshops. Dr Jo Garrett and air quality PhD researcher Siyu Wang invited attendees on a “sensor walk” – using personal air quality monitors to investigate how pollution levels vary across different areas of the campus.

Dr Tim Walker and Emma McBurney explored social value – what it means, why it matters, and how to measure it effectively. Using the Birdie air quality monitor as a case study, participants discussed whether it was worth investing in and whether the benefits outweighed the cost.

Not wanting to be outdone, Dr Lewis Elliott provided a taster of the kinds of learning students experience on the MSc course, taking people on a walking session that introduced a classic pillar of environmental psychology: attention restoration theory.

The Centre has a rich history of collaborating with the local community, and we are always looking to explore new opportunities. If you have a research idea you’d like to talk through, please get in touch with us at ECEHHAdmin@exeter.ac.uk.