On December 12-13 in Helsinki will take place the 20th meeting of the European Environment and Health Committee (EEHC). These meetings take place every 6 months. Representatives from governments, intergovernmental organizations (EC, EEA, UNEP, etc.) and non-governmental organizations will gather in this meeting. The meeting will comprise a scientific session dedicated to Regional Priority Goal IV of the CEHAPE, which aims at reducing the risk of disease and disability arising from exposure to hazardous chemicals (such as heavy metals), physical agents (e.g. excessive noise) and biological agents and to hazardous working environments during pregnancy, childhood and adolescence. In addition there will be an open forum to review progress made by Member States in implementing the CEHAPE at a national level so far.