ASTA - International and national abatement strategies for transboundary air pollution
WHAT IS THE CHALLENGE?The problems of air pollution are far from solved. The international Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (CLRTAP) has been in force since 1982 and since then the requirement for reducing emissions in Europe and North America of sulphur dioxides, nitrogen oxides, ammonia and volatile organic compounds has been gradually tightened. Much has been achieved but emissions are still far too high and the acidification of soil and water still continues in the most sensitive areas. Under the new acidification strategy of the EU, emissions in Europe should be brought below the critical load limits through a process of gradual restrictions in a cost-effective manner, and there are proposals for an emissions ceiling in 2010. A decision has also been taken on the maximum allowed concentrations of several significant air pollutants to be implemented in 2005 and 2010. In accordance with the long-term EU Clean Air for Europe programme (CAFE), a common strategy is to be created for local air quality issues, car emissions, acidification/eutrophication/oxidant and climate change issues.HOW CAN THE PROGRAMME CONTRIBUTE TO A SOLUTION?
The protocols of the CLRTAP, as well as several EU agreements are to be renegotiated within the next few years and broad international support is needed for the scientific basis of these negotiations. The aim of ASTA is to work out a basis for international measures to combat transboundary air pollution in Europe and to develop national strategies and measures within different sectors where transboundary air pollution is significant. The programme focuses on acidification, the impact of nitrogen on forest ecosystems, the effects of ground-level ozone on vegetation and the long-range transport of particles. Other goals include strengthening and the future safeguarding of Swedish competence that can be used in international negotiations as well as gaining a better understanding of the interaction between science and politics. Integrated analyses of action strategies are being performed with the aim of supporting the negotiating process.
WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM THE RESULTS?
Those who are negotiating within the framework of the air pollution agreements. Different activities that cause emissions of air pollutants or are affected by atmospheric deposition (e.g., the transport sector, energy producers, forestry etc.). Central, regional and local authorities. Interest groups.
