Europe has the highest alcohol consumption in the world. Health and social services, transportation, the workplace, and criminal justice systems bear the brunt of alcohol-related harm. In some of the countries of Europe, the economic burden is estimated to account for 2-3 percent of gross national product, and alcohol can be responsible for 8-10 percent of deaths in the age range 16-74. To help member states reduce overall alcohol consumption and combat high-risk behavior, the Plan's authors suggest five areas for immediate action: (1) Public policies which relate to alcohol in member states; (2) Consensus with international agencies in joint action; (3) Settings that promote health; (4) Primary health care; and (5) Support systems. The World Health Organization's Regional Office for Europe will: (1) coordinate implementation of the Plan; (2) develop an effective network of appropriate partners; (3) provide staff resources and financial support from its regular budget. To ensure that it has a sustained impact, the Action Plan will continue until the year 2000. Figures, references, appendixes