Environment

In 2002, the European Union adopted the 6th Environmental Action Plan (EAP), a new environmental strategy that outlines the priorities for action on the environment in the coming years.  "Environment 2010: Our future, our choices" sets up four main priority areas for action: climate change; nature and biodiversity; environment and health; and sustainable use of natural resources and waste. At the same time, it seeks ways to involve citizens and relevant stakeholders in the process of policy making and to make decisions on the basis of sound science.

To tackle more specific environmental problems in the most cost-effective way, the European Union will also adopt seven thematic strategies:

1. Air pollution
2. Prevention and recycling of waste
3. Protection and conservation of the marine environment
4. Soil
5. Sustainable use of pesticides
6. Sustainable use of resources
7. Urban environment

Each strategy should be founded on thorough research and science, and should set clear environmental objectives to be achieved by 2020.
In May 2004, at the fourth Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health, The World Health Organization (WHO) adopted the Children's Environment and Health Action Plan for Europe (CEHAPE). This plan sets out concrete measures to reduce the impact of air pollution, water, chemicals and injuries on children's health. CEHAPE will be implemented through national children's environment and health action plans.

As a response to this conference, the European Commission published its Environment and Health Action Plan 2004-2010. The EU plan was received with some disappointment, as no definite actions were proposed and there was a lack of positive action in the face of scientific evidence. Progress on implementation is being reported to a Consultative Forum set up by the Commission.

Research to establish the effects of environmental pollution on health has also been encouraged by the European Union. Under its 5th Framework Programme for Research, the European Community funded projects to study the links beween air pollution and ill health.

The European Commission - Directorate General for the Environment started a new service in order to improve the dissemination of research results and to reinforce the links between science and policy. Policy makers and the general public can now learn more about environment and research by visiting the  new website.