During Period 2, efforts concentrated on finalising the development of novel methodologies to assess the socioeconomic burden associated with environmental stressors, alongside launching the corresponding case studies and transferability actions designed to pilot these approaches.
A core computational infrastructure for quantifying and monetising DALYs was set up. A structured and fully documented R package, including programming, package architecture, and debugging was developed with methodological input and validation from consortium partners.
A comprehensive testing strategy was implemented, including quantitative validation checks, as well as verification of package-specific error and warning handling.
EBoD calculation methods were operationalised and partners trained in the R package. Input data were identified in consultation with stakeholders and acquired for Norway, Belgium, France, Estonia, and Portugal. The lowest feasible geographical resolution was defined for each country, and initial estimates—such as YLL due to ischaemic heart disease attributable to PM2.₅—were completed. Development and validation of the BEST-COST Multiple Deprivation Index progressed, including indicator harmonisation, robustness and validity testing, and manuscript drafting, with finalisation expected in early 2026.
For the health impact assesment, two interventions—traffic reduction measures and freight modal shift—were selected. Emission modelling, exposure scenarios, and cost compilation are ongoing, with analyses focused on a single 2023–2030 timeframe to test the BEST-COST HIA framework.
To transfer the methodologies to other stressors and other countries and ensure that they are useful, usable and used, the key methodological challenges were defined in transferring EBD approaches beyond air pollution and noise.
Two case studies addressed phthalates, including meta-analytic evidence and EBD calculations for DBP and preterm birth, and DMP and diabetes. Transferability to green space was explored through an expert workshop.
