27.-30.8.1996, Nagoya (JP), XIVth International Scietific Meeting of the International Epidemiological Association (IEA): Global Health in a Changing Environment
Venue: Nagoya Congress Center
Incl. Global Environmental Epidemiology Network (GEENET) meeting, 28 Aug 1996 (J. Last, C. Corvalàn)
Own contribution:
- Fehr, R., Kobusch, A.-B., Protoschill-Krebs, G., Serwe, H.-J. (1996): Environmental Health Impact Assessment (EHIA): Underutilized tool for ecologic health protection and promotion. Abstract 29PMPS1115, Program book, p.213 [96-01]
Abstract:
- Purpose: To explore the potential of EHIA as a tool for health promotion; to develop a generic EHIA model; to contribute to efficient EHIA practice.
- Methods: Status quo assessment by survey and document analysis; development of comprehensive EHIA approach; evaluation of model applications.
- Results: Requirements of European law on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) include the assessment of human health impacts. In 71 EIA documents analyzed, health implications were rarely treated explicitly. A survey of 54 local health departments demonstrated current procedural deficiencies. A novel 10-step EHIA approach integrating quantitative risk assessment (QRA) methodology has been developed, covering prediction, assessment, communication, and evaluation. The approach was tested successfully in model applications concerning waste management and highway planning and is now endorsed by the German Conference of Health Ministers. Recent development of dedicated Environmental Health information workplaces also allows to provide for specific tools and resources for EHIA.
- Conclusion: Comprehensive EHIA has a great potential for environmental health promotion. Current obstacles to wide-spread use can be overcome by provision of adequate concept, efficient tools, and professional training.
Left: Conference poster; Right: Our poster (required size was 90cm in width, 180cm in height; foto of downsized model)
Human ecology and health 