COMEAP is an independent expert advisory committee that provides advice to Government departments and agencies, through the Chief Medical Officer, on all matters concerning the potential toxicity and subsequent health effects of air pollutants.

There is increasing awareness amongst politicians and the public that air pollution is once again a major health issue. This realisation, due in part to the dramatic rise in the number of publications linking poor air quality and health outcomes across the globe, is a challenge for governments everywhere. In Europe, many countries are finding it difficult to achieve air pollution limit values, whilst chronic exposure to poor air quality - especially in urban areas - is increasing the incidence of diseases such atherosclerosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

On his appointment Professor Kelly said "This is an exciting, albeit challenging time for those working in the field of air quality. If solutions are to be found that resolve the issue of poor air quality in major cities across the UK, there is a need to bring together a number of Government departments, and scientists from different disciplines to effectively utilise their collective knowledge. It is only through such partnerships that meaningful progress can be made in decreasing the public health impact of poor air quality."

Item date 13/12/2011