Acidification abatement policy - the Netherlands experience

This paper presents a description of the way in which the present acidification programme has been developed in the Netherlands. The current policy has adopted an integrated approach for all acidifying substances on the basis of effect oriented goals (2400 acid equivalents deposition per ha. per year, in 2000 and 1400 equivalents in 2010). Two elements of importance in translating these goals into emission reduction objectives are elucidated: the two-track approach in environmental policy and the involvement of emitter categories (target groups) in policy development. The emission reduction objectives for 2000 and measures related to SO2, NOx, NH3 and VOC emissions under the 1989 abatement programme, are highlighted. Some changes with respect to present legislation are shown. It is stressed that emissions in neighbouring countries have to be decreased proportionally to Dutch reductions, to reach an acceptable level of acid deposition in the Netherlands. Finally the perspectives for implementation of the abatement programme and for policy measures to reach the 2010 deposition goals are indicated. 7 refs., 4 tabs