Promoting research and development in transboundary air pollution control

Where knowledge is insufficient, the results of specific research programmes can become the basis for appropriate policies in the future. When several states have a common need for research, cost advantages accrue from undertaking it at the regional level, provided the results are effectively disseminated.

The Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution aims to protect man and his environment against air pollution and to endeavour to limit and, as far as possible, gradually reduce and prevent air pollution, including long-range transboundary air pollution.

The Convention promotes cooperation in the conduct of research into, and/or development of: (i) Existing and proposed technologies for reducing emissions of sulphur compounds and other major air pollutants, including technical and economic feasibility, and their environmental consequences; (ii) Instrumentation and other techniques for monitoring and measuring emission rates and ambient concentrations of air pollutants; (iii)Improved models for better understanding of the transmission of long-range transboundary air pollutants; and (iv)The effects of sulphur compounds and other major air pollutants on human health and the environment, including agriculture, forestry, materials, aquatic and other natural ecosystems and visibility, with a view to establishing a scientific basis for dose/effect relationships designed to protect the environment.