Starting in 1997 the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna (IAEA) supported and guided the ideas and intentions of BioMAP over 6 years.

In general, the IAEA is making concerted efforts to promote the practical use of nuclear and related analytical techniques in studies of non-radioactive environmental pollutants that may impact on human health, and one of the main emphasis is on studying air contaminants. The IAEA has been systematically supporting Biomonitoring of Atmospheric Pollution in the framework of its project on Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Research Using Nuclear and Related Analytical Techniques.

The objective of this project was to identify the source and evaluate the fate of key non-radioactive environ-mental contaminants and provide the basis for improved health for human populations. The project has been implemented through a co-ordinated Research Project on Validation and Application of Plants as Biomonitors of Trace Element Atmospheric Pollution Analysed by Nuclear and Related Techniques, several technical co- operation projects, and some dedicated analytical quality control activities.

In recent times the board of BioMAP is pleased to welcome scientific colleagues also from the Arab countries.

In general it is to say that at each workshop there are participants involved from more than 20 countries.

Remark: The photo to the right was the winner photo of the workshop (taken by Dr. Stefano Loppi).