FE393 AMAP National implementation plan 1998 - 2003 Finland

Outi Mähönen, Johanna Rissanen (eds.), 2000

Finnish Environment 393, international cooperation, p. 34
URN:ISBN:9521106727. The publication is available only in printed form ISBN 952-11-0672-7.

Abstract

The purpose of the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Program, AMAP, is to monitor the levels of, and assess the effects of anthropogenic pollutants in all compartments of the Arctic, as well as in human populations with respect to human health. The programme is implemented in co-operation with the eight Arctic countries.

The first phase of AMAP was finalised in 1997 and two assessment reports were subsequently published. The AMAP Trends and Effects Programme 1998 - 2003 is a development of the earlier AMAP Monitoring Programme. The programme is based on on~going national monitoring and research activities carried out in the Arctic countries. These activities are presented in the National Implementation Plans (NIPs), which are prepared by the National AMAP Working Groups in each country. The programme consists of six sub-programmes, which cover different sectors of the Arctic environment: the atmosphere, terrestrial ecosystems, freshwater ecosystems, human health, radioactivity and marine environment. These subprogrammes are defined in terms of parameters and media to be monitored with respect to the priority contaminants, such as heavy metals, persistent organic contaminants and radioactivity. Acidification and the effects of pollution on the health of humans living in the Arctic, including the possible effects of increased UV radiation and climate change, are also given priorities within the AMAP.