Leading by example, the Environmental Health Center’s award-winning Greening the Cleaning® program eliminates, to the greatest extent possible, all cleaning agents containing hazardous ingredients and replaces them with naturally derived ingredients with the least level of toxicity. Since its inception in 2001, the program has been implemented by healthcare facilities, government authorities, businesses and schools around the country. 

• A multi-center clinical trial on the safety and efficacy of a pesticide-free head lice treatment. (Resources: Head Lice Treatments)
• CDC-funded research on "The Environmental Factors of Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders in New Jersey".
• Formation of Hackensack University Medical Center's Integrative Pediatric Oncology Group, which is studying the role of Vitamin D in the health of cancer survivors.

Additionally, the Center compiles research and information on a variety of environmental hazards and health topics. For more see our  Research Index.  To learn more about current research topics and studies click here.

At The Deirdre Imus Environmental Health Center, education is central to everything we do. Educating parents, teachers, community members and children through public speaking events provides a platform for creating healthier communities.  The Center website promotes learning on a global scale, providing links to resources, research and more. For groups located near Hackensack University Medical Center, Center tours are available on a limited basis, as are print materials.

Legislation is an important tool for improving environmental health nationwide. Below is a list of important legislation and bills that we are tracking as well as links to some model legislation.

Integrative medicine blends conventional approaches with the ancient healing practices of alternative medicine, in creating healthcare centered on the whole person. As traditional medicine relies on managing disease, the integrative approach uses prevention as part of a healthy lifestyle. Here, the high-touch healing arts, nutrition and conventional approaches are combined to optimize total wellness of mind, body and spirit for each patient.

"Building Green" begins with greater awareness of both the need and the means. Learn more about why green building is important and the resources you need to build "green" into your project, whether for the home, school, government or commercial building. Read more...