Kutse

WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

REGIONAL OFFICE FOR EUROPE

WELTGESUNDHEITSORGANISATION

REGIONALBÜRO FÜR EUROPA

ORGANISATION MONDIALE DE LA SANTÉ

BUREAU RÉGIONAL DE L'EUROPE

ВСЕМИРНАЯ ОРГАНИЗАЦИЯ ЗДРАВООХРАНЕНИЯ

ЕВРОПЕЙСКОЕ РЕГИОНАЛЬНОЕ БЮРО

Thirteenth meeting of the European Environment

and Health Task Force (EHTF) Bureau

EURO/EHTFB13

Virtual 17 March 2025

16 December 2024 Original: English

Draft meeting highlights

Organizer

WHO European Centre for Environment and

Health, acting in its role as Secretariat of the

European Environment and Health Process (EHP),

in support of the EHTF Chair and co-Chair.

Main agreements and next steps

• The Bureau members expressed their

agreement with the proposed elements of

the draft agenda for the upcoming EHTF

meeting. They also decided to convene for

a Bureau consultation in early 2025 to

further discuss and refine the development

of the EHTF agenda.

• The host country for the EHTF meeting

has yet to be confirmed, and the EHP

Secretariat has invited expressions of

interest from EHTF members to host the

meeting.

• In the spring of 2025, the EHP Secretariat

will launch a call for expressions of

interest to serve in the EHTF Bureau and

will work on updating and expanding the

list of EHP stakeholders.

Participants

72 participants from 34 Member States in the

WHO European Region and 8 stakeholder

representatives, including youth.

Overall scope

To plan activities and key milestones to be

achieved by the EHP in the implementation of the

commitments from the Budapest Declaration in

2025 and beyond. Also, to take stock of the

progress made in 2024 in the follow-up to the

Budapest Conference, including updates from the

EHTF and EHP Partnerships.

Selected conclusions

• Political momentum on environment and health issues (particularly climate and health action)

has been increasing, as reflected in the latest Manifesto of the Regional Director of the European

Region of the WHO, which shapes the direction of the second European Programme of Work

(EPW2).

• Countries are actively working toward implementing the Budapest commitments, demonstrating

progress at the national level.

• The EHP Partnerships continue to expand and progress, with new members joining and key

initiatives moving forward, strengthening regional cooperation on environment and health.

• Implementation of the Budapest commitments remains a key priority for the WHO European

Centre for Environment and Health, which is committed to supporting Member States and

stakeholders in addressing it.

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Contents

Highlights ......................................................................................................................................... 1

1. Introduction.................................................................................................................................. 3

2. Opening and adoption of the agenda............................................................................................. 4

3. On the road to implementing the Budapest commitments ............................................................. 4

Overview of country activities presented by the Member State representatives .................................. 5

▪ Work on water safety plan auditing and climate change impacts on vector-borne diseases.......... 5

▪ Strategic approach to implementing the Budapest Declaration .................................................. 5

▪ Collaborative approach to addressing air pollution .................................................................. 5

▪ Highlights on best practices for hand hygiene and menstrual health in schools .......................... 6

▪ Progress on chemical safety and Poison Center development ................................................... 6

Examples of regional activities presented by the EHP Secretariat and stakeholders’ representatives. 7

▪ Air quality ............................................................................................................................ 7

▪ Chemical safety .................................................................................................................... 7

▪ Climate change and health ..................................................................................................... 8

▪ Environmentally sustainable health systems ............................................................................ 9

▪ Environmental noise.............................................................................................................. 9

▪ Nature and health .................................................................................................................. 9

▪ Environment and health inequality ....................................................................................... 10

▪ One Health ......................................................................................................................... 10

▪ Professional profiles ............................................................................................................ 10

▪ Safe active mobility............................................................................................................. 10

▪ Sustainable Development Goals ........................................................................................... 10

▪ Water, sanitation and hygiene .............................................................................................. 11

4. EHP Partnerships: key updates and developments ..................................................................... 13

▪ Health Sector Climate Action............................................................................................... 13

▪ Human Biomonitoring ......................................................................................................... 13

▪ Poisons Centres................................................................................................................... 13

▪ Risk Reduction in the School Environment ........................................................................... 14

▪ Youth ................................................................................................................................. 14

▪ Healthy Active Mobility ...................................................................................................... 14

5. Accelerating the implementation of the Programme of Work of the EHTF in 2025 .................... 15

6. Preparation for the fifteenth meeting of the EHTF ..................................................................... 16

7. Strengthening governance, intersectoral collaboration and knowledge for health and

environment ................................................................................................................................... 16

8. Update on the forthcoming Bureau elections .............................................................................. 17

9. Summary of decisions and next steps .......................................................................................... 18

Annex 1. List of participants........................................................................................................... 19

Annex 2. Provisional programme ................................................................................................... 28

Annex 3. Materials shared in the chat ............................................................................................ 29

page 3

1. Introduction

1. The highlights provide a summary of the key discussions and decisions made during the

thirteenth EHTF Bureau meeting, which was held on 16 December 2025 through a virtual

connection. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress of the European Environment

and Health Process (EHP) in 2024 and planning for 2025. The highlights are organized by

the main topics of the meeting sessions.

2. The meeting was organized by the World Health Organization European Centre for

Environment and Health (WHO ECEH), acting in its role as Secretariat of the EHP, in

support of the Chair and co-Chair.

3. The meeting was attended by members of the Bureau from Armenia, Georgia, Germany,

Hungary, Israel, Italy, Netherlands (Kingdom of the) and the United Kingdom of Great

Britain and Northern Ireland, as well as by representatives of the European Environment

and Health Youth Coalition (EEHYC), Health and Environment Alliance (HEAL), United

Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and United Nations Environment

Programme (UNEP). In addition, EHTF members from Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia

and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland,

Ireland, Israel, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands (Kingdom of the), Norway, Romania,

Serbia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, Ukraine and representatives of

the European Commission (EC), International Youth Health Organization, Regional

Environmental Center (REC) former and United Nations Human Settlements Programme

(UN-Habitat) joined the meeting. Also, alongside WHO ECEH experts, representatives

from WHO Country Offices in Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan participated in the meeting

(Annex 1).

Figure 1. Distribution of 13th EHTF Bureau meeting participants by representation category

49%

17%

7%

28%

Member States representatives excluded from the Bureau composition

EHTF Bureau members

Stakeholder representatives

WHO

page 4

2. Opening and adoption of the agenda

4. The meeting began with an opening from Prof. Raquel Duarte-Davidson, the co-Chair of

the Bureau, who welcomed the Bureau as well as other members of the EHTF attending

the meeting. The Chair of the EHTF, Ms Brigit Staatsen, shared the chairing with Ms

Duarte-Davidson.

5. The co-Chair was followed by Ms Francesca Racioppi, the Head of the WHO ECEH, who

welcomed meeting participants and introduced the scope and purpose of the meeting, as

well as the provisional programme (Annex 2).

6. Ms Racioppi also highlighted key takeaways from the 74th session of the WHO Regional

Committee for Europe, where Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge was nominated by Member States

for a second five-year term as WHO Regional Director for Europe. Key focus areas for

EPW2 that emerge from research and ongoing dialogue with countries and partners in the

European Region include:

o tackling the surge of noncommunicable diseases and mental health issues;

o addressing demographic shifts such as ageing and migration;

o establishing health systems of the future;

o managing the health impacts of climate change;

o building health security.

As presented above, one of the priorities of Dr Kluge’s Manifesto is the urgent need to

address climate change, placing the environment and health agenda at the heart of regional

policies. This marks a significant milestone for the EHP, as the upcoming EPW2 (2026–

2030) will provide a structured framework for Member States to advance their environment

and health commitments in line with the Budapest Declaration and its Roadmap.

7. Looking ahead, February 2025 will feature a public hearing on “Climate Change and

Health: Shaping a Resilient Future”. In the following months, the Pan-European

Commission on Climate Change and Health is expected to be launched, aimed at

strengthening leadership and collaboration across the health and environment sectors.

8. The revised agenda and the provisional programme of the meeting were adopted.

3. On the road to implementing the Budapest commitments

9. Participants were presented with inspiring examples of how Budapest commitments are

being implemented across the region (Table 1). Tangible progress was showcased through

selected Member State initiatives mostly implemented after the latest EHTF meeting (26–

27 June 2024 Utrecht, Netherlands (Kingdom of the)), illustrating how these commitments

have been translated into action. The collection of country experiences was based on

submissions from Member States and, in some cases, developed in collaboration with the

WHO ECEH.

page 5

Table 1. Overview of country activities presented by the Member State representatives

Croatia Work on water safety plan auditing and climate change impacts on vector-borne

diseases

Croatia presented key outcomes from the Water Safety Plan (WSP) Auditing workshop

(6–7 May 2024, Split), highlighting its success in using a participatory approach to secure

political commitment at the national level. Organized by the Institute of Public Health and

WHO ECEH under the Protocol on Water and Health, the workshop addressed critical

health challenges linked to climate change and water pollution. Participants gained

valuable knowledge and skills on developing and implementing national auditing schemes

effectively. The meeting also fostered networking among Croatian, Hungarian and Italian

experts to share experiences and best practices, and promoting peer-to-peer support as well

as future collaboration on WSP auditing, reinforcing regional efforts to safeguard public

health through improved water management.

The country representative also informed participants about the outcomes of a meeting on

the impacts of climate change on vector-borne diseases in Croatia, held on 14–15 October

2024 in Zagreb. Organized by the Institute of Public Health, WHO Country Office in

Croatia, and WHO ECEH, the event built on a workshop on the implementation of the

Budapest Declaration and its Roadmap, held in November 2023. Key takeaways included

the importance of developing public health interventions to reduce disease burdens,

promoting innovative research for surveillance and prevention, and advancing new tools

for diagnosis and control. Strengthening climate-adaptive health systems was highlighted

as a priority.

Hungary Strategic approach to implementing the Budapest Declaration

The strategic decision of Hungary on the implementation of the Budapest Declaration was

to integrate commitments horizontally into existing strategies and policies, including the

National Environmental Protection Program, the National Climate Change Program, and

the National Sustainable Development Framework Strategy. These strategies are action-

oriented, set clear targets with numerical indicators and deadlines, and extend beyond

electoral cycles, ensuring long-term impact.

A key priority is the reduction of preventable deaths and the promotion of healthier

environments, focusing on air quality, urban health, and mental well-being. The National

Center for Public Health and Pharmacy, in collaboration with the WHO Collaborating

Center on Environmental Health Risk Management, continues its work on indoor

environments and children's health. A new cycle of the National Children's Respiratory

Health Survey will be launched in 2025, covering approximately 70,000 third-grade

children, providing data on environmental determinants of respiratory health.

Israel Collaborative approach to addressing air pollution

Israel’s air pollution challenges are influenced by unique climatic conditions, its

geographical location, high population density and proximity to industrial zones. As part

of the ongoing efforts to address air pollution and its health impacts, the Ministry of Health

in Israel introduced an Inter-ministerial Forum on Air Quality, aimed at fostering

collaborative action across various ministries.

The Forum’s core operational focus is on enhancing information exchange between

ministries and regulators. This collaborative effort, led by the Ministry of Health and the

Ministry of Environmental Protection, addresses critical issues such as residential areas

near industrial zones, treatment facilities releasing harmful substances, and odors

alongside air pollution. The solutions being developed are complex but essential for

safeguarding public health.

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10. As part of the session, the EHP Secretariat and stakeholders provided updates on their recent activities (Table 2), outlining key developments, ongoing initiatives and future

priorities. The table below presents a few examples of regional activities discussed during the session.

Lithuania Highlights on best practices for hand hygiene and menstrual health in schools

On 5 September 2024, a conference on good practices in hand hygiene and menstrual

health in schools was held in Kaunas, Lithuania. Organized by the National Public Health

Centre under the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Lithuanian Sports University

and WHO ECEH, the event took place within the framework of the Protocol on Water and

Health.

During the conference, Lithuania presented key findings from a survey on menstrual

hygiene practices across the WHO European Region. The survey, involving countries like

Moldova, North Macedonia, Hungary, Kazakhstan and Montenegro, highlighted the

importance of cross-sectoral collaboration between schools, parents, communities,

decision-makers and NGOs to improve menstrual hygiene management.

The results showed that while menstrual hygiene is recognized in many schools, it still

lacks sufficient attention and funding in some regions. Effective governance and legal

frameworks supporting menstrual health in schools were identified as crucial. Though

progress is slow, there is a growing commitment to provide menstrual health education,

distribute menstrual products, and reduce stigma. The results emphasized the continued

importance of promoting dignity and health for girls in schools.

Uzbekistan Progress on chemical safety and Poison Center development

Uzbekistan is making significant progress in establishing a robust national system for

sound chemicals management and aligning its priorities with the Budapest Declaration. In

June 2024, WHO CO in Uzbekistan organized a training on the Globally Harmonized

System (GHS) for classification and labeling of chemicals. The four-day training,

organized in cooperation with the WHO ECEH and United Nations Institute for Training

and Research, brought together national experts from diverse sectors including health,

environment, agriculture, emergency response and veterinary services. This event marked

a key milestone in equipping Uzbekistan’s first pool of GHS-trained experts, who are now

pivotal in advancing chemical safety and building a legal framework for the country.

Another important initiative in chemical safety is the establishment of a national Poison

Center, aimed at improving toxicological services, chemical emergency response and

poisonings prevention. Currently, a national assessment is underway, with a concept for

the Poison Center set to be presented to policymakers. This work underscores the

importance of cross-sectoral collaboration and leadership to ensure public health remains

a priority in chemical management.

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Table 2. Examples of regional activities presented by the EHP Secretariat and stakeholders’

representatives

Air quality Report and briefs on the personal-level actions to reduce air pollution

exposure in the WHO European Region: A comprehensive report has been

developed to summarize evidence and provide practical guidance on reducing

personal exposure to ambient air pollution in the WHO European Region.

Based on this report, a collection of briefs distills complex considerations into

clear, actionable recommendations. These include strategies for minimizing

time in polluted outdoor environments, guidance on physical activity, the use

of portable and central air cleaners, respirators, and face masks, as well as

recommendations on active transportation, optimal travel routes, driving styles,

and vehicle settings to mitigate exposure.

Upcoming second Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health: The

Conference (25–27 March 2025, Cartagena, Colombia) will highlight

evidence-based, coordinated multi-sectoral solutions in cities, countries and

regions to prevent communicable and noncommunicable disease, save lives,

protect child health and limit climate change across the world. WHO

Headquarters has issued a circular invitation letter to all Member States. WHO

is developing a series of science-policy snapshots for the upcoming

Conference, providing concise, evidence-based insights on key issues. One

snapshot focuses on the regional perspective, drafted by WHO with feedback

from members of the Task Force on the Health Aspects of Air Pollution.

Additionally, WHO is actively engaged in work on transboundary cooperation,

contributing to discussions on cross-border environmental and health

challenges.

Project on the Health Risks of Air Pollution in Europe ̶ HRAPIE-2: WHO

ECEH together with advisers and members of the systematic review team meets

frequently to engage in discussion and reach consensus on the classification of

concentration–response functions (CRFs) for health risk assessment, as well as

the exposure ranges to which these CRFs would apply and other relevant

information. Discussion outcomes will inform a forthcoming technical report,

providing guidance on health impact assessments of air quality policies, incl.

 which concentration-response functions to use, applicable exposure ranges,

background health data, and accounting for combined exposures to different air

pollutants.

Chemical safety Project on the elimination of mercury-containing medical devices: This

project aims to develop and implement nationwide strategies to phase out the

import, export, and manufacture of mercury-containing thermometers and

sphygmomanometers. Key actions include transforming procurement and

supply chains, promoting alternative devices, training medical staff,

demonstrating phasing out of the devices, raising public awareness, and

enhancing waste management practices. In the WHO European Region,

Albania and Montenegro are participating in this project.

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Climate change and

health

WHO Heat-Health Action Plan guidance: With support from the European

Commission, WHO ECEH continues to update its Heat-Health Action Plan

guidance, originally published in 2008. The updated version, expected to be

published in spring 2026, will include eight actionable core elements, and

updated public health advice. In November 2024, WHO ECEH convened an

expert meeting with the lead authors of the guidance to review and refine the

structure and technical content of the eight core element chapters.

The 11th meeting of the working group on Health in Climate Change

(HIC) and REACH consultation: At the 11th annual HIC meeting on 29

October 2024, WHO ECEH shared updates on key developments, including

regional reports, heat and health progress, the intersection of mental health and

climate change, among other topics. A dedicated segment of the programme

focused on a special consultation for identifying regional research priorities

under the global Research Agenda for Action on Climate and Health (REACH).

Pan-European Commission on Climate Change and Health: WHO/Europe

will host a high-level hearing “Climate Change and Health: Shaping a Resilient

Future” in February 2025 to address regional challenges and guide future

actions under the second European Programme of Work. Later in 2025,

WHO/Europe plans to launch the independent commission will elevate the

political profile of climate and health.

Transatlantic Dialogues: In 2024, WHO/Europe, the Pan American Health

Organization, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services launched

the Transatlantic Initiative on Climate Change and Health, aimed at fostering

collaboration through policy dialogues. As part of this initiative, two

Transatlantic Dialogues have been convened. The first dialogue focused on

extreme heat and health (virtual), and the second one addressed health sector

governance for climate action (hybrid, organized as a part of a broader meeting

hosted by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and

Consumer Protection and the National Public Health Institute).

COP29 engagement: WHO made a significant impact at COP29, promoting

health as the argument for climate action. WHO had a dedicated Health

Pavilion showcasing evidence and solutions to link health and climate action,

featuring a two-week programme. A highlight was the launch of the COP29

“Special Report on Climate Change and Health: Health is the Argument for

Climate Action”. WHO ECEH actively engaged at COP29 by co-organizing

two events – one on extreme heat and one sustainable cities – and by

participating in the high-level roundtable on One Health. The office also

engaged in several other events led by Spain (on the Protocol on Water and

Health), Italy (on nature-based solutions), Kyrgyzstan (on the mountain,

climate and health agenda) and Canada (on heat health).

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Environmentally

sustainable health

systems

Collection of mental health interventions in the face of a changing climate:

WHO ECEH started the collection of initiatives to identify and compile case

studies of interventions designed to protect and promote mental health in the

face of climate change. This effort shines a light on innovative approaches from

across the WHO European Region that address the growing mental health

challenges linked to climate impacts. The mapping of case studies will help to

document activities already underway in the WHO European Region, to

identify current gaps, and to promote further action. This information will feed

into a planned WHO policy brief on mental health and climate change. Meeting

participants were invited to submit case studies and to disseminate the call

within their professional networks.

Overview on safe, climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable health

care facilities: The report provides an overview and definitions of safe,

climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable health care facilities; lists

concrete guidance on actions that can be taken to achieve them; and directs

readers to key materials, resources and tools for detailed guidance and actions.

Workshops on environmental sustainability in hospital management in

Romania: WHO ECEH supported the organization of two workshops (24–25

October 2024), contributing to the development and delivery of content focused

on promoting sustainable and climate-resilient healthcare. The first workshop

aimed to equip National Institute for Health Services Management (INMSS)

trainers with the necessary skills to promote sustainability within healthcare

settings. The second workshop provided practical insights from hospital

managers in the Netherlands, Norway, and Portugal, sharing their experiences

in implementing sustainable practices in hospital operations. The events were

co-organized by the WHO Country Office in Romania, in partnership with the

Ministry of Health, the INMSS, and the NOVA School of Public Health

(Portugal).

Environmental noise Report on disability weights for noise-related health states in the WHO

European Region: The “European noise disability weights measurement

study”, on which this report is based, aimed to derive disability weights for

several environmental and non-environmental noise related health states using

standardized and comparable methods. A nationally representative sample

survey was administered in the general populations of four countries –

Hungary, Italy, Netherlands (Kingdom of the) and Sweden. This report is

building on expert work from the 2018 Environmental Noise Guidelines.

Nature and health

Nature and health course: A four-week curriculum on nature and health is

being developed for the Bonn School for Environment and Health. The course,

to be launched in the last quarter of 2025, will cover ecosystem services, nature-

based solutions, One Health, and the relevance of nature to both environment

and health ministries.

Upcoming report on nature-based solutions and health: WHO ECEH will

launch a new report on nature-based solutions and health on 22 May 2025,

aligning with the International Day of Biological Diversity and the Budapest

Conference objectives. Member States were invited to express interest if they

wish to lead this event.

page 10

Environment and

health inequality

A fact sheet on air quality is under review, with future releases planned on

injuries and climate change. A regional report on climate change and inequality

is set for 2025.

One Health One Health approach implementation: The Adaptation Guide on the One

Health Approach was launched at the 74th session of the WHO Regional

Committee for Europe, summarizing key regional and global progress. In

November 2024, the Quadripartite (WHO, FAO, UNEP, WOAH) renewed its

commitment to regional One Health implementation.

Professional profiles Upcoming professional profiles report: WHO ECEH is analyzing

environmental sector changes over 25 years and defining necessary

competencies and skills, with completion expected by end of 2025.

Safe active mobility The 8th Bonn Dialogue on Environment and Health: WHO ECEH, in

partnership with the Transport, Health and Environment Pan-European

Programme (THE PEP), convened ministers, deputy ministers, state

secretaries, European Commission representatives and high-level stakeholders

from cities, as well as representatives of nongovernmental organizations and

youth activists at the 8th Bonn Dialogue. Participants discussed the urgent need

for proactive implementation actions to integrate active mobility – walking and

cycling – into transport policies, spatial planning and urban design, and health

and climate strategies. The Dialogue concluded with the key takeaway

messages for policy-makers and stakeholders to intensify promotion of active

mobility in the WHO European Region and accelerate the implementation of

agreements, strategies and plans for cycling and walking.

For more activities, please see the paragraphs 11−13 that outline further work

implemented in partnership with THE PEP.

Sustainable

Development Goals

Budapest Declaration and SDG indicators: The work is progressing on

identifying more than 60 indicators for Budapest Declaration implementation,

categorized into five thematic chapters: environmental pollution, climate

change, nature, environmental services and built environment, and the

governance and multilateral collaboration. A consultation process will begin in

2025 to refine and select indicators before the next Ministerial Conference.

page 11

Water, sanitation

and hygiene

Regional workshop and Task Force meeting in Budapest: In December

2024, two major events were held under the Protocol on Water and Health: the

Regional Workshop on Equitable Access to Water and Sanitation and the Task

Force Meeting on Target Setting and Reporting. During the workshop, the

Equitable Access Scorecard 2.0 was launched, emphasizing the need to

accelerate progress toward universal access to water and sanitation. The task

force meeting marked the start of the sixth Protocol reporting cycle, reflecting

on past achievements and gathering input for the Protocol programme of work

for 2026–2028.

New publications and data collection efforts: In the context of the Protocol,

WHO/Europe and UNECE recently published the report Strengthening climate

resilience in the drinking-water and sanitation sector, highlighting strategies to

build resilience in water and sanitation systems.

At the same time, two key data validation processes are in progress, supported

by WHO ECEH. The first focuses on SDG indicators 6.a and 6.b, collected

through the UN-Water Global Analysis and Assessment of Sanitation and

Drinking-Water (GLAAS) mechanism, assessing governance, financing, and

climate resilience in WASH systems. The second involves the 2025

WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme estimates, with national

consultations underway to update data on WASH services in households (SDG

6.1.1, 6.2.1) and safely treated wastewater (SDG 6.3.1).

Support for WASH in healthcare facilities: WHO ECEH continues to assist

countries in strengthening WASH in healthcare facilities through the Practical

Steps Tracker, a tool that monitors progress toward a sustainable WASH

environment. This initiative also serves as a reporting mechanism for the UN

General Assembly resolution on “Sustainable, safe and universal water,

sanitation, hygiene, waste, and electricity services in health-care facilities”.

Enhancing water and sanitation resilience in Ukraine and preparing for

regional initiatives: In response to the ongoing war, WHO remains engaged in

supporting Ukraine’s water and health sectors preparedness, including through

a national consultation on water safety planning (12-13 March 2025).

Preparations are underway for key regional events: two sub-regional workshops

in Astana on safely managed sanitation and wastewater and environmental

surveillance respectively, a regional meeting on WASH in health care facilities

in Budapest (July 2025), and in-country training sessions on climate-resilient

water and sanitation services using risk-based tools such as water and sanitation

safety plans.

11. The UNECE representative informed that during the 22nd session of the Steering

Committee of THE PEP (28–30 October 2024, Geneva, Switzerland), over 20 Member

States convened to strengthen collaboration on sustainable mobility and health. Organized

jointly by WHO/Europe and UNECE, the session marked significant milestones, including

the adoption of the first-ever Pan-European Master Plan on Walking, a comprehensive

strategy on transport, health and environment for the pan-European region, and an

inspirational document on sustainable tourism mobility (please see Annex 3 to learn more

about these documents. In addition, a new WHO publication was launched: “Health

economic assessment tool (HEAT) for walking and cycling. Methods and user guide on

physical activity, air pollution, road fatalities and carbon impact assessments: 2024

update”.

page 12

12. THE PEP Partnership on Child- and Youth-friendly Mobility is preparing a document for

adoption in 2025, focusing on creating transportation systems that prioritize the needs of

children and young people. It aims to ensure that their voices are heard in urban planning

and mobility design, contributing to safer, more supportive environments for their

development.

13. The UN-Habitat representative informed the meeting about the recent World Urban Forum

held in Cairo, Egypt, in early November, which saw over 25,000 participants from 182

countries. There were 12 dedicated events focused on health, led by partners including

WHO. The Forum produced a call to action, which includes key areas for advancing urban

health in alignment with the Budapest Declaration.

14. The UNEP representative highlighted the convergence of three major COPs that took place

in the final months of 2024: Biodiversity COP16, Climate COP29, and Desertification

COP16. These events addressed key environmental issues with direct implications for

health and sustainable development. The representative emphasized that these COP

outcomes are highly relevant to strengthening national environment and health portfolios,

offering a pathway to enhance sustainable solutions, climate resilience and One Health

policies regionally and globally.

15. The European Environment and Health Youth Coalition representative emphasized the

critical role of young people in advancing the implementation of the Budapest

Commitment, highlighting their dual role as advocates and implementers of policies.

Notable examples of youth-led initiatives include advocacy campaigns, capacity-building

programmes, and the development of child- and youth-friendly policies. Looking ahead,

the youth representative urged Member States to further strengthen their commitment to

youth empowerment by providing opportunities for meaningful participation.

page 13

4. EHP Partnerships: key updates and developments

16. Participants were updated on the recent developments of the EHP Partnerships by the lead

countries (Table 3).

Table 3. Overview of activities implemented by the EHP Partnerships

Health Sector

Climate Action

Recent activities:

• Expansion of the Partnership to Germany, Hungary, Israel and North

Macedonia.

• Terms of Reference were developed to guide Partnership’s operations.

• Strategic meetings were held in Bonn (May 2024) and Dublin

(September 2024). The meeting focused on innovative strategies for

decarbonizing transport within the health-care sector, with participants

exchanging insights and initiatives to drive emissions reductions.

• The EHP Partnership for Health Sector Climate Action hosted its first

Deep-Dive Solutions Exchange on Climate-Friendly Transport (5

November 2024), drawing over 100 participants from 35 countries.

Priorities for 2025:

The Partnership continues to focus on its core mission through Deep Dives,

with upcoming ones on Sub-national Health Sector Adaptation (April 2025),

and Greener Models of Healthcare (November 2025).

Human

Biomonitoring

Recent activities:

• Since the EHTF meeting in Utrecht, two more countries−Ireland and

Czechia−have joined the Partnership, bringing the total number of

partners to 21.

• Over the summer, the programme of work was finalized, and three

working groups were established: communication, initiating HBM

studies, and interpreting HBM results.

• New publication on activities to facilitate national HBM programmes

is available here.

Priorities for 2025:

Key upcoming activities include the second annual meeting in February 2025,

in Belgrade, Serbia, where members will take stock in the progress of work,

discuss s and the next steps in the implementation of the work programme, with

the third annual meeting tentatively set for end of 2025.

Poisons Centres Recent activities:

• The Partnership held its kickoff meeting in June 2024 in Istanbul,

where the terms of reference and potential work areas were discussed.

• Currently, 16 countries have expressed interest in joining, with six

(Türkiye, North Macedonia, Slovenia, Malta, Spain, and Austria)

already formal members, alongside the European Association of

Poison Centers and Clinical Toxicologists (EAPCCT).

page 14

Priorities for 2025:

An online meeting in early 2025 will further refine the terms of reference, and

an in-person session is planned at the EAPCCT Congress in Glasgow in May

2025 to strengthen collaboration.

Risk Reduction in

the School

Environment

Recent activities:

• The first online meeting of the Partnership was hosted by the National

Center for Public Health and Pharmacy in November 2024.

Participants included Belarus, Germany, Hungary, Luxembourg, and

Montenegro, while Georgia and Moldova provided written input due

to other obligations. During the meeting, partners shared national

strategies, activities, legal frameworks, and responsible institutions,

setting the foundation for future collaboration and action.

• Since the latest EHTF meeting, the Partnership has welcomed four new

members: Belarus, Georgia, Luxembourg and Montenegro.

Priorities for 2025:

Key priorities include organizing an in-person workshop in the spring 2025,

facilitating knowledge exchange via TEAMS SharePoint, and expanding the

Partnership to new members.

Youth Recent activities:

• The 2nd International Youth Climate Summit, held on 6–7 December

2024 in Portorož, Slovenia, provided a platform for young leaders to

shape a collective declaration on global climate action, exchange ideas,

and advocate for climate and environmental health solutions.

• Following the Summit, the climate action hackathon, held on 7–8

December 2024 in Portorož, brought together youth teams to develop

innovative, real-world solutions to climate challenges. The event

fostered mentorship-driven collaboration, encouraged creative

problem-solving, and strengthened international connections among

young people working on climate action.

• Interest in the EHP Partnership on Youth continues to grow, with four

organizations and three Member States expressing their willingness to

join (process ongoing). The form for submissions of expressions of

interest is available here.

Priorities for 2025:

The Partnership will focus on expanding youth engagement and membership,

launching a campaign in early 2025 to attract new participants. Additionally, a

planning meeting will be organized to design activities for 2025–2026,

fostering collaboration and capacity building among members.

Healthy Active

Mobility

Recent activities:

• Latest Partnership meeting took place in Ulm, Germany in November

2024.

• The new project initiative Active2Public Transport aims to enhance the

connection between active mobility and public transport in the Danube

region. This initiative will focus on integrating walking and cycling

with public transit systems, promoting sustainable and seamless

mobility solutions.

page 15

Priorities for 2025:

The upcoming work includes organizing a webinar to disseminate guidance

from the Pan-European Master Plan on Walking and holding partner meetings

in selected countries, with deep dives in Rotterdam (March 2025) and Tirana

(October 2025, to be confirmed). Efforts will focus on collaborating with UNEP

on the Pan-African Action Plan for Active Mobility, partnering with financial

institutions like the World Bank, for funding, and engaging with the public

transport sector, including participation in the UITP Summit in Hamburg.

Additionally, progress will be tracked in implementing actions across the pan-

European region, following the model of the Master Plan for Cycling

Promotion.

17. In 2024, the EHP Secretariat supported the Partnerships work. This included the

creation of virtual workspaces to serve as an internal platform for exchange and

cooperation for each EHP Partnership, along with an EHP Secretariat’s co-working

space containing joint documents and useful resources. To enhance visibility,

Partnership-specific banners were developed, and the promotional leaflets about the

EHP Partnerships were updated as of November 2024. Additionally, a web story was

published about the launch of two new EHP Partnerships focused on Poison Centers

and Risk Reduction in the School Environment. In 2025, a comprehensive

communication report on Partnerships’ work is set to be finalized ahead of the next

EHTF meeting. Key priorities also include updating promotional materials,

developing new communication assets such as videos and posters (subject to available

resources), and enhancing Partnership-specific web pages on the WHO website to

ensure clear, consistent and effective engagement with stakeholders.

5. Accelerating the implementation of the Programme of

Work of the EHTF in 2025

18. During this session, the Secretariat conducted a poll to learn from participants how they

see their institutions and countries benefiting from the EHTF in enhancing the

implementation of the Budapest commitments.

19. The responses highlighted key areas of support, including political commitment, financial

assistance, and raising awareness among stakeholders, particularly policymakers and

youth. Many emphasized the value of experience sharing, policy dialogues, and technical

assistance, especially in areas such as climate change, air quality, and chemicals

management. There were also calls for practical tools, capacity building, and

methodological support to strengthen national and subregional actions.

20. Additionally, respondents stressed the need for improved communication and engagement

strategies, including better cross-ministerial coordination, social media campaigns, and

targeted visits to successful projects. The importance of youth involvement, NGO support,

and financial justifications for environmental health investments was also highlighted as

critical to advancing the Budapest commitments.

21. The EHP Secretariat's communications representative updated the group on various

multimedia initiatives launched in 2024 to support the EHP work. Key efforts included

creating engaging video content, photo galleries, and social media posts, particularly

targeting youth. Ongoing communication products include flyer on Budapest

page 16

commitments, web stories, and the upcoming “Let’s get moving! 100 reasons to walk and

cycle more” campaign.

22. In addition to these, the Secretariat emphasized the importance of national and local events

documentation, to capture dynamic moments through smartphones and short interviews,

which could later on be used, e.g. for the EHP Newsletter. To enhance visibility, EHP

Secretariat encouraged participants leveraging social media, infographics and catchy

taglines, with a focus on human interest stories.

6. Preparation for the fifteenth meeting of the EHTF

23. EHP Secretariat presented the draft outline of the meeting agenda (ref. Presentation “S5 -

EHTF meeting agenda - EHP Secretariat”). Key agenda items include a follow-up on the

Budapest Conference, including the Bonn Dialogues; updates on EHP Partnerships;

support for Member States through policy dialogues, efforts to strengthen governance,

leadership and knowledge-sharing, and implementation of national portfolios; as well as

the election of the EHTF Bureau (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Initial outline of key discussion elements for the EHTF meeting agenda

24. The Bureau members supported the proposed agenda elements for the upcoming EHTF

meeting and planned to hold a follow-up consultation in early 2025 to further shape its

structure and content. The EHP Secretariat has invited EHTF members to submit

expressions of interest in hosting the EHTF meeting.

7. Strengthening governance, intersectoral collaboration and

knowledge for health and environment

25. The Bureau was briefed on the outcomes of the Executive Officers Meeting on Governance

and Capacities for Environment and Health (2−4 December 2024, Bonn, Germany). The

meeting provided a dynamic regional platform for peer exchange, fostering collaboration,

page 17

innovative solutions and long-term networks to accelerate forward the Budapest

commitments implementation.

26. The meeting brought together representatives from 28 countries, with 48 foreign nominees

in attendance. Approximately 25% of participants were from Ministries of Environment,

while 75% represented Ministries of Health. UNEP and UNECE actively contributed to

the discussions, along with expert speakers from the International Union for Conservation

of Nature, Association of Schools of Public Health in the European Region, International

Association of National Public Health Institutes, the European Investment Bank and

various research institutions and government bodies. Their contributions provided valuable

insights, reinforcing the importance of a collaborative and cross-sectoral approach in

addressing governance and capacity.

27. Supported by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation,

Nuclear Safety, and Consumer Protection, the meeting focused on advancing policy

implementation in response to the triple crisis (climate change, environmental pollution

and biodiversity loss) while addressing governance, resources, communication and

knowledge-sharing. Discussions explored:

• Governance and leadership: Strengthening institutional structures, intersectoral

collaboration, and policy integration.

• Resources: Enhancing workforce competencies, financial strategies and investment

opportunities.

• Knowledge transfer, communication and advocacy: Translating research into

policy, improving strategic communication and tackling misinformation.

28. To support discussions, WHO ECEH developed seven background documents, along with

a briefing note summarizing these materials. This comprehensive package was shared with

all meeting participants as well as with the EHTF, ensuring broad access to the key insights

and evidence needed for informed decision-making. A summary of key messages and case

studies will be published in 2025.

29. This meeting marked a significant step toward strengthening governance and capacities for

environment and health, reinforcing the need for sustained collaboration and innovative

approaches in tackling regional challenges.

8. Update on the forthcoming Bureau elections

30. The EHP Secretariat provided an update on the forthcoming Bureau elections according to

the EHTF Rules of Procedure. The Bureau composition to be elected at the upcoming

EHTF meeting is expected to consist of 8–14 Member States, including the Chair, Co-

Chair, and immediate past Chair; EHP recognized stakeholders (UNECE, UNEP and 2

other stakeholders); and representative from youth organizations.

31. Meeting participants were reminded that Bureau elections are held every two years.

Current members may seek re-election, and the process will consider the balance between

the environment and health sectors, as well as geographical and gender representation.

32. The call for nominations for the EHTF Bureau will be sent no later than six weeks before

the meeting, with an invitation to submit candidatures three weeks in advance (Figure 2).

The list of nominations received will be shared with the EHTF one week prior to the

meeting.

page 18

Figure 2. EHTF Bureau elections timeline

9. Summary of decisions and next steps

33. The Bureau members expressed their agreement with the proposed elements of the draft

agenda for the upcoming EHTF meeting. They also decided to convene for a Bureau

consultation in early 2025 to further discuss and refine the development of the EHTF

agenda.

34. The host country for the EHTF meeting has yet to be confirmed, and the EHP Secretariat

has invited expressions of interest from EHTF members to host the meeting.

35. In the spring of 2025, the EHP Secretariat will launch a call for expressions of interest to

serve in the EHTF Bureau and will work on updating and expanding the list of EHP

stakeholders.

36. The Chair closed the meeting, thanking participants for their active participation and

valuable contributions, and the Secretariat for the meticulous preparation of the meeting.

page 19

Annex 1. List of participants

Members of the EHTF Bureau

Armenia Nune Bakunts

Deputy Director General

National Centre of Disease Control and Prevention

Ministry of Health

Yerevan

E-mail: [email protected]

Georgia

Maia Javakhishvili

Deputy Head of Environment and Climate Change

Department, Ministry of Environmental Protection

and Agriculture of Georgia

Tbilisi

E-mail: [email protected]

Germany

Barbara Werschkun

Policy Officer

Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature

Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer

Protection

Berlin

E-mail: [email protected]

Hungary

Tamas Pandics

Head of Department

National Public Health Center

Budapest

E-mail: [email protected]

Israel

Isabella Karakis

Head of Environmental Epidemiology Department

Ministry of Health

Jerusalem

E-mail: [email protected]

Italy

Alessandra Fidanza

Senior Expert

Ministry of Environment and Energy Security

Rome

E-mail: [email protected]

page 20

Netherlands (Kingdom of the)

Brigit Staatsen - EHTF Chair

Senior Researcher, Healthy Living Environment

National Institute of Public Health and the

Environment (RIVM)

Bilthoven

E-mail: [email protected]

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Raquel Duarte-Davidson - EHTF co-Chair

Head of Department, Chemicals and Environmental

Effects

UK Health Security Agency

Oxford

E-mail: [email protected]

Stakeholders

European Environment and Health Youth Coalition (EEHYC)

António Marques Pinto

President

EEHYC

Porto, Portugal

E-mail: [email protected]

Health and Environment Alliance (HEAL)

Génon K. Jensen

Executive Director

HEAL

Brussels, Belgium

E-mail: [email protected]

United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Nicholas Bonvoison

Chief, Operational Activities and Review Section

UNECE

Geneva, Switzerland

E-mail: [email protected]

United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) Wondwosen Kibret

Policy and Partnerships Coordinator

UNEP

Geneva, Switzerland

E-mail: [email protected]

EHP Focal Points

Austria

Matthias Knopper

Deputy Head of Department

Ministry of Health

Vienna

E-mail: [email protected]

page 21

Belarus

Tanya Pronina

Head of International Scientific and Technical

cooperation Department

Research Institute of Hygiene, Toxicology,

Epidemiology, Virology and Microbiology

Minsk

E-mail: [email protected]

Belgium

Bram Lefever

Coordinator NEHAP

FPS Public Health & Environment

Brussels

E-mail: [email protected]

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mirha Ošijan

Expert Advisor for Coordination in the Field of

Addiction and Other Environmental Impacts on

Human Health, Department of Health

Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo

E-mail: [email protected]

Bulgaria Pavlina Tsenova

Chief Expert

Ministry of Health

Sofia

E-mail: [email protected]

Croatia

Pavle Jelicic

Head of Environmental Health Division

Croatian Institute of Public Health

Zagreb

E-mail: [email protected]

Cyprus

Maria Christofidou

Chemist

State General Laboratory

Ministry of Health

Nicosia

E-mail: [email protected]

Czech Republic

Vojtěch Balcar

Member of the Department of International Affairs

Ministry of Health

Prague

E-mail: [email protected]

Pavel Hlavacek

Ministerial Advisor

Ministry of the Environment

Prague

E-mail: [email protected]

page 22

Finland

Mikko Paunio

Medical Counselor

Ministry of Social Affairs and Health

Helsinki

E-mail: [email protected]

France

Caroline Paul

Head of Unit Outdoor Environment and Chemicals

Ministry of Health

Paris

E-mail: [email protected]

Jean Berenguier

Policy officer in charge of Eu affairs

Ministry of Health

Paris

E-mail: [email protected]

Roxane Berjaoui

International Expert Advisor Md Public Health

Ministry of Health

Paris

E-mail: [email protected]

Greece Fofo Kalyva

Secretary General for Public Health

Ministry of Health

Athens

E-mail: [email protected]

Iceland Sigrún Þóra Sveinsdóttir

Specialist

Ministry of Health

Reykjavik

E-mail: [email protected]

Ireland

Coline Ohehir

Head of Climate Change Unit

Department of Health

Dublin

E-mail: [email protected]

Israel

Orna Zatzner

Senior manager Science and Research

Ministry of Environmental Protection

Jerusalem

E-mail: [email protected]

page 23

Lithuania

Ingrida Skridailiene

Head of Public Health Safety Department

National Public Health Centre under MoH

Vilnius

E-mail: [email protected]

Mintarė Jurgilaitė

Environmental Health Chief Specialist

Institute of Hygiene

Vilnius

E-mail: [email protected]

Luxembourg

Laurence Wurth

Environmental Health Lead

Ministry/Directorate of health Luxembourg

Luxembourg

E-mail: [email protected]

Charles Betz

Head of International Relations

Direction de la Santé

Luxembourg

E-mail: [email protected]

Netherlands (Kingdom of the)

Lennart Trouborst

Policy Advisor

Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management

The Hague

E-mail: [email protected]

Michiel Hoorweg

Coordinator

Ministry of Health

The Hague

E-mail: [email protected]

Teun Zeegers

Policy officer

Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management

The Hague

E-mail: [email protected]

Miriam Weber

Senior Policy Advisor

City of Utrecht

Utrecht

E-mail: [email protected]

Norway Anders Tysse

Senior Adviser

Ministry of Health and Care Services

Oslo

E-mail: [email protected]

Romania

Silvia Teodorescu

Chief Physician of the Environmental

Hygiene Section

National Institute of Public Health

Bucharest

E-mail: [email protected]

page 24

Serbia

Branislava Matić Savićević

Head of Environmental Health and School Hygiene

Department

Institute of Public Health of Serbia

Belgrade

E-mail: [email protected]

Slovenia Nataša Hočevar

Secretary

Ministry of Health

Ljubljana

E-mail: [email protected]

Spain Marian Mendoza García

Head of the Service for Environmental Risks

Ministry of Health

Madrid

E-mail: [email protected]

Marina Morales

Technical Officer

Ministry of Health

Madrid

E-mail: [email protected]

Sweden

Karin Norström

Scientific Advisor

Swedish Environmental Protection Agency

Stockholm

E-mail: [email protected]

Türkiye Sena Ergun

Environmental Engineer MSc

Ministry of Health

Ankara

E-mail: [email protected]

Turkmenistan Annamurat Nazarov

Main specialist

Ministry of Health and Medical Industry

Ashgabat

E-mail: [email protected]

Ukraine Zaika Oleksandr

EPI Manager

Ministry of Health

Kyiv

E-mail: [email protected]

page 25

Temporary Adviser Robert Thaler

Senior Sustainable Active Mobility Advisor,

Speaker, Moderator, Initiator

DI Robert Thaler eU

Vienna, Austria

E-mail: [email protected]

Stakeholders European Commission (EC)

Dimitrios Sarikizoglou

Policy Analyst

EC-Directorate-General for Health and Food

Safety

Luxembourg, Luxembourg

E-mail: [email protected]

International Youth Health Organization (YHO)

Ajda Stepišnik

Project Associate

International Youth Health Organization (YHO)

Ljubljana, Slovenia

E-mail: [email protected]

Katja Čič

Programme Director

YHO

Ljubljana, Slovenia

E-mail: [email protected]

Regional Environmental Center (REC) former

Eva Csobod

Senior Expert of Environment and Health

REC

Budapest, Hungary

E-mail: [email protected]

United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat)

Graham Alabaster

Chief Geneva Office

UN-Habitat

Geneva, Switzerland

E-mail: [email protected]

WHO Regional Office for Europe

Philip Baumann

ICT Specialist

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Matthias Braubach Technical Officer

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

page 26

Dorota Jarosinska

Programme Manager, Living and Working

Environments

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Jovana Dodos Jovanovic

Consultant

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Jangwon Lee

Technical Officer

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Edith Kimotho

Programme Assistant

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Nicole Klaesener-Metzner

Technical Officer

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Mareike Kroll

Technical Officer

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Jeren Myratdurdyyeva

National Professional Officer

WHO Country Office, Turkmenistan

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

E-mail: [email protected]

Sinaia Netanyahu

Programme Manager, Environment and Health

Impact Assessment

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Mariana Nissen

Consultant

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

page 27

Julia Nowacki

Technical Officer

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Francesca Racioppi

Head of Office

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Dovile Rimke

Consultant

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Didora Sekler

Public Health Officer

WHO Country Office, Uzbekistan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan

E-mail: [email protected]

Nino Sharashidze

Programme Manager, Multisectoral

Partnerships for Environment and Health

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Wendy Williams

Programme Assistant

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Marisol Yglesias

Technical Officer

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

Irina Zastenskaya

Technical Officer

WHO Regional Office for Europe

European Centre for Environment and Health

Bonn, Germany

E-mail: [email protected]

page 28

Annex 2. Provisional programme

10:00–10:10 Session 1 – Opening, adoption of the agenda

The Bureau is invited to adopt the agenda and the programme of the meeting.

Relevant documents:

EURO/EHTFB13/1 List of documents

EURO/EHTFB13/2 Scope and purpose

EURO/EHTFB13/3 Provisional agenda

EURO/EHTFB13/4 Provisional programme

10:10–11:00 Session 2 – On the road to implementing the Budapest commitments:

progress, opportunities and lessons learned

Participants will be provided with examples of the implementation of the Budapest commitments by

Member States, stakeholders, and EHP Secretariat in an interview format.

Relevant documents:

EURO/EHTFB13/6 Programme of work for the EHTF for 2024–2025

EURO/EHTFB13/7 Draft report of the fourteenth meeting of the EHTF (Utrecht, 26–27 June 2024)

EURO/EHTFB13/8 EHP Newsletter, April–June 2024

11:00–11:15 Break

11:15–12:00 Session 3 – EHP Partnerships: key updates and developments

EHTF Bureau will be updated on the recent developments of the EHP Partnerships by the lead countries,

organizations and EHP Secretariat.

Relevant document:

EURO/EHTFB13/9 Promotional leaflets on the EHP Partnerships

12:00–12:20 Session 4 – Ideastorm: Opportunities to accelerate the implementation

of the Programme of Work for the EHTF in 2025

This session focuses on generating actionable insights to support the EHTF in advancing the

implementation of its Programme of Work by strengthening governance, partnerships, optimizing

resources and enhancing knowledge and tools for the Budapest commitments implementation.

12:20–12:35 Session 5 – Preparation for the fifteenth meeting of the EHTF

In this session aimed at preparing for the next EHTF meeting, the EHTF Bureau will discuss provisional

proposals for the host country, agenda and sessions’ structure.

12:35–12:50 Session 6 – Strengthening governance, intersectoral collaboration, and

knowledge for health and environment

Meeting participants will be informed on the main outcomes of the Executive Officers Meeting on

Governance and Capacities for Environment and Health (2−4 December 2024, Bonn, Germany).

12:50–12:55 Session 7 – Update on the forthcoming Bureau elections according to the

EHTF Rules of Procedure

In this session, the EHP Secretariat will provide information about the upcoming elections for the

EHTF Bureau's next term.

Relevant document:

EURO/EHTFB13/10 EHTF Rules of Procedure

12:55–13:00 Session 8 – Any other business, summary of decisions, next steps and

closure of meeting

page 29

Annex 3. Materials shared in the chat

The materials, shared by meeting participants, have been extracted from the chat and are listed below.

Publications

Personal-level actions to reduce air pollution exposure in the WHO

European Region

This report summarizes evidence and information and formulates practical

advice on personal-level actions to reduce exposure to ambient air pollution.

It covers personal actions such as reducing the amount of time spent in

polluted outdoor environments, adjusting the location and timing of physical

activity, using air cleaners, wearing face coverings, and mobility options

(transport, active transportation, routes, driving style and vehicle settings).

Disability weights for noise-related health states in the WHO European

Region

The “European noise disability weights measurement study”, on which this

report is based, aimed to derive disability weights for several environmental

and non-environmental noise related health states using standardized and

comparable methods. A nationally representative sample survey was

administered in the general populations of four countries – Hungary, Italy,

Netherlands (Kingdom of the) and Sweden.

The Equitable Access Score-card 2.0 Shaping water and sanitation policies

to achieve the human rights to water and sanitation

The Equitable Access Score-card 2.0, featured in this publication, is an

analytical tool designed to help governments and other stakeholders

establish a baseline measure of the equity of access to water and sanitation,

identify related priorities, evaluate progress through a process of self-

assessment, and discuss further actions to be taken. The publication contains

recommendations on planning the self-assessment and concrete examples

of the benefits of using the Score-card 2.0 in different settings.

Strengthening climate resilience in the drinking-water and sanitation

sector through the Protocol on Water and Health

This report aims to support climate work under the Protocol on Water and

Health, providing strategic insight into its potential role in addressing the

climate crisis, including through supporting development of targets and

action plans at the national and subnational levels. This report explores key

considerations for water and sanitation providers and regulators in

addressing resilience and net zero, outlines actionable options and climate-

related links, and identifies future opportunities under the Protocol.

page 30

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals

The tenth revised edition of the GHS includes updates on the classification

procedure for desensitized explosives; the adoption of non-animal testing

methods for classifying health hazards, particularly skin corrosion/irritation,

serious eye damage/irritation, and respiratory or skin sensitization;

enhanced precautionary statements to improve user comprehension while

supporting practical labeling; and a review of annexes 9 and 10 to align

classification strategies, guidance, and tools for metals and metal

compounds with long-term aquatic toxicity provisions.

Adaptation guide on the One Health approach for the WHO European

Region

This guide underscores the critical need for collaborative efforts and

innovative, people-centred and evidence-informed approaches to address

complex health challenges comprehensively and effectively. These actions

should not only address immediate concerns but also aim to bring about

long-lasting, fundamental and positive transformations in how health

challenges are understood, managed and prevented.

Key takeaway messages from the Eighth Bonn Dialogue on Environment

and Health

The key takeaways from the Dialogue on Safe Active Mobility provide policy-

makers and stakeholders with valuable insights to further promote active

mobility across the European Region. They aim to accelerate the

implementation of agreements, strategies, and plans for cycling and walking.

Manifesto for the post of Regional Director of the European Region of the

World Health Organization 2025-2030

This publication presents a vision statement shaped by the questions raised

during and after my hearing at the virtual forum with the Regional Evaluation

Group and all WHO European Member States on 19 June 2024, as part of the

Regional Director nomination process.

Sustainable tourism mobility: Inspiration for the countries of the pan-

European Region

This document provides practical insights and recommendations for fostering

sustainable mobility behavior in response to contemporary challenges. Unlike

existing manuals or toolboxes, this guidance targets responsible national

authorities from the tourism and transport sectors.

page 31

“The Heartbeat of the City” – A UN-Habitat call for action to shape

healthier urban futures

The document, presented at the World Urban Forum (4–8 November 2024,

Cairo, Egypt) outlines a transformative vision for healthier, more inclusive

cities by prioritizing housing as a human right, integrating nature and

biodiversity into urban planning, fostering community well-being through

people-centered design, and championing data-driven health policies.

Policy documents

Pan-European Master Plan on Walking

This document introduces the first-ever pan-European Master Plan on

Walking, adopted by the THE PEP Steering Committee during its 22nd session

(28–30 October 2024). Rooted in the Vienna Declaration, the Master Plan

emphasizes walking as a priority in mobility policies due to its wide-ranging

benefits for health, the environment, local economies, and social

inclusiveness

Pan-European Strategy on Transport, Health and Environment

The strategy, adopted at the 22nd session of the Steering Committee of the

THE PEP, lays out a road map for the transformation of transport systems by

2050, promoting sustainable urban mobility, cleaner technologies and

climate resilience.

Decision adopted by the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on

Biological Diversity

By this decision, the Conference of the Parties to the Convention of the

Biodiversity, adopted the Global Action Plan on Biodiversity and Health,

available in annex I of this decision, as a voluntary plan for supporting the

implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Newsletters

Subscribe to the HEAL newsletter mailing list here.

Send an email to receive the EHP Newsletter at [email protected], or by clicking on the button on this

page.