A ray of sunshine in acid skies
International protocol means a cleaner natural environment for Norway
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.
This report offers a convenient summary of the provisions of the Gothenburg
protocol, the results of emissions reduction measures, and their cost, and
includes short definitions and explanations of essential concepts.
The report has been written by the Norwegian Pollution Control Authority (SFT)
in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment.
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