Oral

This session will address how scientific information has been used in establishing public health policies on air pollution. The presentations will examine policy decisions that were made in light of key uncertainties concerning health and economic implications. Topics will include analyses of national environmental policies including the United States standard-setting process for ambient air pollutants, methods used to value air quality improvements around the world, and discussion of a sustainable development approach to energy policy. Presentations also will highlight case studies where scientific information was used by state and local agencies to reduce air pollution by toxic contaminants in the Houston region and a community in Wisconsin. This session will highlight a variety of ways that science has influenced environmental policies that have an impact on public health.

Session Objectives: 1. Articulate the role of science in national air pollution and energy policy. 2. Discuss examples of how scientific information influenced local decisions to reduce air pollution by toxic contaminants.

CE Credits: CME, Health Education (CHES), Nursing