Greenhouse Effect: European Solutions

• Published in: Europe (Washington, D.C.) D.C.), 1988-11 (281), p.36
• Main Author: Spellman, James David
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Air pollution; Emissions; Environmental accounting; Greenhouse effect; Ozone; Pollution control
• ISSN: 0191-4545

European researchers are intensely studying the accumulation of gaseous atmospheric pollutants that is causing climatic changes known as the greenhouse effect. Scientists theorize that gases such as carbon dioxide are accumulating and trapping infra-red heat that otherwise would radiate into space. The resulting higher temperatures may create a range of difficulties. Scientists are working on a cooperative, international basis to share research, and researchers are calling for nations to establish policies requiring adaptation to climate changes and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. European countries have surpassed the US in the area of energy efficiency; some areas consume 2 1/2 times less energy per capita than the US. Further European scientists are researching such other energy sources as solar, geothermal, and wind energy. The European Community has joined the US, Canada, and 15 other countries to ensure nearly complete elimination of chlorofluorocarbons by the year 2000. German researchers also are developing an agro-ecological strategy to control soil erosion.