These relatively stable compounds rise to the stratosphere where interaction of the compounds with UV radiation releases chlorine atoms. Recent international agreements limiting the use of CFCs and other chemicals which harm the ozone layer should permit recovery to begin, but it is expected that there will be a 50-year delay until recovery. The organization was proposed in an editorial in late 1990, carried simultaneously in the Journal of Environmental Health and the American Journal of Industrial Medicine . NAPE will inform physicians, patients and the public about the impact of pollutants and the necessary personal and public health steps that should be taken to reduce or eliminate those pollutants, and also will involve physicians in environmental issues global in nature, such as protection of biological diversity. Health professional organizations, non-profit environmental and public interest organizations concerned with environment and health issues are invited to become organizational members.
Individual memberships are also welcome.
Water Pollution and the Protection of Human Health. Return to document text.