The dispersion of sulphur pollutants over western Europe

Abstract

The various problems associated with the dispersion, advection and deposition of sulphur pollutants emitted into the atmosphere are reviewed in the light of experience gained during several long-range transport projects, in particular the O.E.C.D. project recently completed over western Europe. Modelling and budgeting the exchange of pollution between countries is briefly discussed and it is noted that although ‘statistical’ modelling may be satisfactory when considering long-term effects, the episodic nature of deposition and the complex meteorological flows often associated with these abnormally high depositions suggests that smaller-scale and detailed modelling is required if these situations are to be properly understood and forecast.