Acid deposition: decision framework

Abstract

This paper attempts to aid decision makers in assessing strategies for the control of anthropogenic emissions and for mitigating the effects of acid deposition. There is a need for an integrating framework for balancing the potential environmental effects of acid deposition with the costs of emissions control. The proposed decision framework has been implemented as a computer model that represents a set of decision trees that are fast, flexible, and easily used. Changes in emissions must be related to changes in acid deposition, and changes in acid deposition must be related to changes in the various impacts that can be identified, such as decreased forest productivity and the loss of sport fisheries.