Dr Holman will support the Commission Chair in providing expert advice and feedback to the Olympic Board on the sustainability of the Games programme, identify good practice and areas for improvement, and assess risks.

She has a particular interest in the use of health impact assessment for regeneration and waste management projects, and leads a team of scientists, engineers, environmentalists and public health specialists working on regeneration, waste management and land development projects.

Dr Holman said: “The London Olympics has been sold as the most sustainable games ever, and the Commission’s role is to make sure this promise is delivered. I believe this will provide a genuine opportunity for all those involved in construction and development to embrace sustainability. It is a chance for us to demonstrate tangibly what can be achieved, and to make a valuable contribution to the long-term legacy of the London Olympics. The potential impact on a national scale should not be underestimated."

As one of 12 commissioners, Dr Holman will participate in three key reviews and three progress reports in 2008 for this pioneering body, to monitor sustainability planning and progress for the London 2012 Olympic games.