The SETAC Italian Language Branch (ILB) is one of the regional branches of SETAC Europe. Established about 20 years ago, the ILB promotes the development and application of scientific knowledge in environmental sustainability, ecosystem preservation, and ecosystem integrity. Its activities reflect SETAC mission and values and are based on a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach. The ILB brings together Italian-speaking members of SETAC Europe living and working in Italy and abroad, including biologists, chemists, engineers, environmental scientists, policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders. It provides a dynamic platform for scientific exchange, collaboration, and knowledge sharing on emerging and re-emerging issues at the interface between environmental science and human health, with a strong One Health perspective. At the international level, the ILB actively contributes to the SETAC Europe Annual Meeting, giving its members opportunities to present and discuss scientific and technological advances. At the national level, it promotes dialogue and collaboration among universities, research institutions, industry, public authorities, and other stakeholders, helping to strengthen the connection between scientific evidence and environmental policy and practice. A key component of the ILB activities is the organisation and support of training courses, conferences, workshops, and scientific networking events, with particular emphasis on students and early-career researchers. These initiatives provide opportunities to exchange ideas, develop professional networks, showcase innovative research, and encourage the development of science-based solutions to current and emerging environmental challenges. The ILB currently comprises 123 members from universities, research institutions, and industry in Italy and abroad. Its activities include numerous free-of-charge, self-funded events organised through the active involvement of its members. This participatory approach reflects the collaborative, inclusive, and community -driven spirit of SETAC ILB. Since 2009, the SETAC ILB has progressively expanded its national activities through a series of workshops hosted by leading Italian universities and research institutions: 1st National Workshop – University of Siena, 2022 2nd National Workshop – National Research Council (CNR), Rome, 2023 3rd National Workshop – University of Milan, 2024 4th National Workshop – Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 2025 The 5th National Workshop held in Chioggia (Venice) featured a rich scientific program, with 36 oral presentations and 29 posters covering a broad spectrum of current environmental and health-related challenges. The scientific contributions were organized into three thematic sessions: • Mediterranean climate region from biodiversity to human health • Regulatory aspects of environmental pollution • Exposure and effects of legacy and emerging contaminants, and multiple stressors The event attracted 130 participants, demonstrating the growing interest in the ILB activities. Participants included representatives from academia, national research institutions and centres, and private companies. A key component of the workshop was the Best Young Italian Scientist Award, established in 2018, that recognises and encourages outstanding research by early-career Italian scientists. In the 2026 edition, 12 young researchers participated in the competition. A panel of reviewers assessed their work according to SETAC Europe established evaluation criteria, based on both the submitted extended abstracts and a five-minute oral pitch presented during the workshop. The award recipient received free registration for the SETAC Europe 37th Annual Meeting, held in Geneva, Switzerland, 25–29 April 2027, providing an important opportunity to present their research and engage with the international SETAC community.