Mediterranean pollution: Health related aspects

Starting from the premise that the main Mediterranean pollution problems are all directly or indirectly health-related, this article surveys the health components of the Mediterranean Action Plan. The Action Plan's pilot projects are described and problems of coordinating national scientific methodologies are pointed out. The protocol on landbased pollution and the problem of mercury in seafood are analysed. The article concludes that, while there is no room for complacency, the extent of Mediterranean pollution has been exaggerated by some commentators.