| Given
the growing concern about air quality, the depletion of
the ozone layer, global warming, and the rise of respiratory-related
illnesses, the reduction of industrial pollutants, notably
VOC emissions, has become a key focus area for regulatory
authorities and governments across Europe.
In the UK, ever since the Clean Air Act of 1993, governments
have put programmes and legislation in place to reduce potentially
hazardous emissions. For specific information on air quality
in the UK, consult The
UK National Air Quality Information Archive. The EU
currently has several programs and initiatives specifically
designed to reduce VOC emissions, with specific reference
to the paint industry. An overview can be found at the website
of The
European Environment Agency.
Notably for paint, in May 2004, a European directive was
adopted relating to paints and varnishes (Directive 2004/42/EC),
with the aim of limiting the amount of VOC emissions emanating
from the use of organic solvents in certain paints, varnishes
and vehicle refinishing products.
A two-step reduction process has been adopted: the first
step will take effect on January 1, 2007, and a second reduction
will be effected in 2010.
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