Specific research programmes (EEC) to be implemented by the Joint Research Centre - Environmental protection -, 1988-1991

Part of the Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development (1987-1991) under subactivity 1.3.: "Environment".
To contribute to the generation of scientific knowledge concerning environmental protection, strengthening the economic and social cohesion of the Community, increasing industrial competitivity by accelerating the transfer of this technology to industry, and enhancing the scientific consensus on the environment.
Eight areas:

- Environmental chemicals and, in particular, the databank "Environmental Chemicals Data Information Network" (ECDIN);

- Genetically engineered substances (new area of research);

- Air pollution: the atmospheric chemistry of pollutants, the evaluation of methodologies for the measurement of atmospheric pollutants and in-field studies of pollutant mass- balance and transport;

- Quality of water: bio-indicators, ecotoxicological effects and pathways of trace metals in aquatic ecosystems;

- Chemical wastes: the migration of inorganic and organic pollutants from waste deposits and their possible impact on the environment as well as the development of a support system for the management of lightly toxic wastes;

- Environmental studies for the Mediterranean basin (new area);

- European monitoring network (new area);

- Food and drugs analysis: the basic instrumentation for a food laboratory has been commissioned.
The Commission, assisted by the board of governors of the Joint Research Centre (JRC), is responsible for implementing the programme, which is executed by the Joint Research Centre's Environmental Institute at Ispra in respect of the Community's Fourth Action Plan in the field of the environment.

In cooperation with the board of governors, the Commission ensures that periodic consultation is maintained with the relevant Management and Coordination Advisory Committees (CGCs) or equivalent committees with a view to ensuring coordination and consistency between shared-cost actions and JRC activities in the same areas.

Before 31 March each year the Commission submits a report on implementation of the programme to the European Parliament and the Council. It will subsequently submit a final evaluation report prepared by a panel of external experts.