In proportion to their size, children breathe more air, drink more water and eat more food than adults. This puts them at greater risk of exposure to pollutants. Children's bodies are also less able to metabolize, detoxify and expunge these pollutants. In recognition of the greater vulnerability of children to harmful substances, EPA has established the Office of Children's Health Protection (OCHP). OCHP ensures that all standards set by EPA are protective of any heightened risks faced by children and that newly developed policies address children's health concerns. Through education and outreach, EPA also seeks to raise awareness of children's health concerns among schools, communities, health professionals and families.

Recommended EPA Web pages

• EPA Office of Children's Health Protection Homepage
  This is your gateway to the latest information on protecting children's health from environmental hazards.
• Healthy School Environments
  The Healthy School Environments Web pages are intended to serve as a gateway to on-line resources to help address environmental health issues in schools.