The Horizon Europe project ZOE explores how forest degradation, deforestation and biodiversity loss influence the emergence of zoonotic and vector-borne diseases. Working across case studies in Europe and Mesoamerica, the project combines ecology, epidemiology, microbiology and social sciences to examine the links between environmental change and health.
This first policy brief introduces the project and presents preliminary recommendations based on stakeholder workshops conducted across all case study regions. Early findings point to the importance of addressing human–wildlife interactions, improving public understanding of zoonotic and vector-borne diseases, and promoting prevention strategies grounded in ecological knowledge.
Authors: Kabisch, N., Jo, W. K., Dumitru, A., Ambort, M. A., & Reperant, L. (2026). Policy Brief I – Introducing ZOE and first policy recommendations. ZOE Project, Horizon Europe Grant Agreement No. 101135094. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20450012