Germany Slashes Heavy Metal Emissions, Meets CLRTAP Targets
The 1998 Aarhus Protocol on Heavy Metals, under the CLRTAP, targets cadmium, lead, and mercury. Germany must reduce emissions below 1990 levels for these metals. The protocol also phases out leaded gasoline and reduces heavy metal emissions from products.
Since 1990, emissions of cadmium, lead, and mercury have decreased significantly, by over 60 to over 90%. The energy sector is the main source of most heavy metals, with transport influencing lead, chromium, copper, and zinc emissions. Lead emissions dropped rapidly after the 1997 ban on leaded gasoline. Most reductions occurred in the early 1990s, with further cuts before 1990. Effective dust and sulfur dioxide reduction measures, along with closing outdated facilities, led to these reductions.
The protocol defines emission limits for stationary sources and requires the use of best available techniques (BAT) for these sources.
Germany has successfully reduced heavy metal emissions since 1990, meeting CLRTAP and EU targets. The Aarhus Protocol's measures, including the leaded gasoline phase-out and emission limits for stationary sources, have been crucial in achieving these reductions.
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