# University of Talca environmental health studies > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/university-of-talca-environmental-health-studies > Updated: 2026-08-31T20:13:58.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2. Researchers at the University of Talca have initiated studies regarding environmental factors and their impacts in the Maule region. An assessment by the KIPUS Technological Center found that only 20% of 80 evaluated homes in the Talca province met regulatory standards for thermal airtightness. These air infiltration leaks cause heat loss, increasing energy consumption and contributing to particulate matter emissions from wood-burning heating. Building on environmental research, the university launched the Gestational Epidemiology Cohort Study (Epigest-Talca). This three-year public health initiative, led by María Elisa Quinteros Cáceres, tracks 1,000 women to investigate how the ‘exposome’—including heat waves, low temperatures, and air pollution—affects newborns. The study aims to determine if such exposures increase risks for premature birth or low birth weight by using sensors to monitor temperature and pollution levels in participants' homes. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-31: University of Talca launches study on environmental impacts on newborns The University of Talca is conducting a three-year study in Talca, Chile, to analyze how heat waves and pollution affect pregnancy outcomes and newborn health in 1,000 participants. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/university-of-talca-launches-study-on-environmental-impacts-on-newborns ### 2026-08-22: Talca housing study reveals low thermal airtightness standards A University of Talca study found only 20% of homes in Talca province meet thermal airtightness standards, increasing energy use and air pollution from heating. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/talca-housing-study-reveals-low-thermal-airtightness-standards --- Cite as: University of Talca environmental health studies. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/university-of-talca-environmental-health-studies