Atmospheric pollution, air quality: limit values for benzene and carbon monoxide CO (direct. 96/62/EEC)

The committee adopted the report by Mrs Hiltrud BREYER (Greens/EFA, D) amending the proposal for a directive (codecision procedure, first reading). The committee broadly welcomed the Commission proposal, which it judged to be well thought out and realistic. It adopted a number of amendments designed inter alia to ensure that the public is provided with more comprehensive information which is clear and comprehensible, easily accessible and fully up-to-date, making information a basic component of the Directive in line with Parliament's general policy. The amendments also seek to underline the precautionary principle with a view to ensuring greater protection of public health and, where economically feasible, increasing the proposed standards still further.