Emission reduction scenarios for nitrogen compounds and their impact on acidification, eutrophication and ozone formation in Flanders

Three emission reduction scenarios have been assessed in order to evaluate the impact of current and future abatement policies on acidification, eutrophication and ozone formation in Flanders, Belgium, for the period 1999–2010. The scenarios reflect (i) the current reduction plans and current legislative actions in Europe, (ii) the emission reductions for Flanders as formulated in the environmental policy strategy for Flanders, 1997–2001, and (iii) one of the possible abatement strategies currently under discussion in order to define the European Commissionʹs emission reduction strategies. It was found that for all scenarios the dominant role of ammonia in acidification and eutrophication will increase in the future. The 50% gap closure scenario has to be combined with the Flemish emission reduction strategy in order to achieve intermediate and long term policy goals for acidification, eutrophication and ozone formation in Flanders.