Amending the 1999 protocol to abate acidification, eutrophication and ground-level ozone (the Gothenburg Protocol)
At a glance
The Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (LRTAP convention) is the main international framework for cooperation and measures to limit and gradually reduce and prevent air pollution. 51 countries from the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) region are parties to the convention, including the EU member states, Canada, the United States and several countries in Central Asia.
Since its signature in 1979, the LRTAP convention has been extended by 8 specific protocols, including the 1999 protocol to stop acidification, eutrophication and ground-level ozone. This protocol, also known as 'the Gothenburg Protocol', was approved by the Council on behalf of the EU in June 2003. It was transposed into EU law mostly through the 2001 NEC directive and the 2001 directive on emissions from large combustion plants.
In 2012, the protocol was modified and two new annexes added. The changes aim to strengthen efforts to meet objectives on the long term protection of human health and the environment. These changes to the protocol now need to be approved by the EU.
In detail
Amendment to the 1999 protocol to abate acidification, eutrophication and ground-level ozone - 2013/0448 (NLE)
The proposed amendment to the 1999 protocol sets out new national emission reduction commitments for 2020 onwards. It covers four air pollutants - sulphur (mainly sulphur dioxide), nitrogen oxides, ammonia and volatile organic compounds (VOC) other than methane - and particulate matter.
In particular, the amendment includes:
- emission reductions for black carbon
- an update of the emission limit values set in the annex to the protocol
- new standards on the content of non-methane VOC's in products
It also completes the reporting obligation for emissions of air pollutants.
In the Council
On 31 January 2012, the Commission submitted a proposal for a Council decision on the acceptance of the revised Gothenburg Protocol on behalf of the EU. This proposal is currently being discussed at the Council. The European Parliament will also need to give its consent.