Air pollution: ozone in ambient air, emission ceilings

The European Parliament adopted the report by Mr. Chris DAVIES (ELDR, UK) relating to ozone in ambient air. This report was subject to amendments which concern: - the early involvement of accession countries which is regarded as being essential; - the increased cooperation between the Member States in reducing ozone levels, use of the potential of transboundary measures and agreement on such measures; - the date for the long-term objectives for ozone concentrations in ambient air: these have to be achieved by 2020, subject to modification, if necessary during the reviews. In addition, the Member States should routinely make information available to the public as well as to appropriate organisations such as environmental organisations and consumer organisations. They shall also inform the Commission, the public, appropriate organisations such as environmental organisations, consumer organisations representing the interests of sensitive population groups and the health care bodies about both the results of their investigations and the content and implementation of specific short-term action plans. Furthermore, they must provide the Commission annually with details of the content and implementation of such short-term action plans. In conclusion, information submitted by the Member States shall be published in a form that enables direct comparison of the performances of the Member States. Progress made by accession candidate countries as regards preparations for the implementation of Community air quality legislation shall be taken into account.�