The European agreement on the reduction of acidification, eutrophication and ground-level ozone, the so-called Gothenburg protocol, will bring about great environmental improvements in Norway by 2010. It will cost Norway NOK 350-550 million per year to implement the provisions of the protocol, but the benefits of reducing emissions are worth at least twice as much.

Acidification is still one of Norway's greatest environmental problems. Acid rain has particularly affected fish stocks in southern Norway. Other fauna, vegetation, soil and buildings are also damaged as a result of acidification, eutrophication and ground-level ozone. More than 20 years of international work have resulted in a marked improvement in the condition of the Norwegian natural environment.

The report "A ray of sunshine in acid skies: International protocol means a cleaner natural environment for Norway" (TA-1826) has been written by the Norwegian Pollution Control Authority (SFT) in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment.