In the framework of Action 3 of the European Environment and Health Action Plan 2004-2010, adopted by the European Commission on June 9^th 2004 (COM (2004) 416 final, volume I, COM (2004) 416 final, volume II), the European Commission committed to develop in close cooperation with the Member States a coherent approach to Human Biomonitoring in Europe.

Human Biomonitoring (HBM) has been defined in the preparation of the Action Plan as "monitoring activities in human beings, using biomarkers, that focus on environmental exposures, diseases and/or disorders and genetic susceptibility, and their potential relationships".

The ultimate aim is to support environmental policy as well as public health policy by better data comparability and accessibility within and between countries and more effective use of resources through shared development of scientific tools and appropriate strategies.

Action 3 is strongly supported by the European Parliament and the European Economic and Social Committee in their reports on the Action Plan. Several Member States of the European Union have confirmed their interest in sharing their efforts and integrating their surveillance and research activities with a view to developing a coherent approach to HBM.

Against this background a European network on Human Biomonitoring called COPHES II, to be funded within the 7^th Framework Programme of the EC DG RTD, is currently under contract negotiations. The foreseen starting date of COPHES II is 1 December 2009.