“Global Connections between Earth Sciences, Health, and Policy: A Symposium in Celebration of the International Year of Planet Earth”

This symposium, which will take place on Thursday, September 25, 2008 at the Keck Center of The National Academies in Washington, D.C., will explore the relationships between earth sciences and public health.  Sessions will feature several examples of health issues related to geological systems including soil, air, and water, and will consider the integration of scientific research, particularly risk assessments, into policy strategies at the state, national, and international levels. Speakers include Kristie Ebi, ESS, LLC; Joseph Graziano, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University; Sharon Hrynkow, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH; Geoffrey Plumlee, Crustal Imaging and Characterization Team, U.S. Geological Survey; Joel Scheraga, Office of Research and Development, Environmental Protection Agency; Elizabeth Snyder, Soil and Water Science Department, University of Florida; and Diana Wall, Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State University. This event will be followed by a reception at the Marian Koshland Science Museum of The National Academies.

The symposium is intended for all interested scientists and decision makers from Federal agencies in Washington, D.C., policy makers from Capitol Hill, scientists and students from local universities, members of the media, and members of the public. Admission is free, but space is limited. Please RSVP for the symposium and the reception to biso@nas.edu by Monday, September 22.

For a complete agenda and further information, visit: www.nationalacademies.org/biso