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New Publication from UNEP:
Phasing Lead out of Gasoline: An Examination of Policy Approaches in Different CountriesPARIS/NAIROBI, February 2000 -- There is a firm consensus among Governments, the lead and automotive industries, and health experts that gasoline should not contain lead. This consensus began to build in the 1970s, when the first health effects from exposure to airborne lead were suspected.
Since that time additional studies have confirmed that any absorption of lead into the body has detrimental effects, particularly on the early development of nervous systems in children and fetuses. With the knowledge of potential health effects, some Governments have established programmes to completely eliminate the use of lead as a gasoline additive.
In 1999, unleaded gasoline accounted for 80 percent of total worldwide sales. In a significant portion of the remaining 20 percent, the lead content has been reduced -- generally at very low cost. The benefits, however, have been substantial. Lead can be removed from gasoline without harm and with net economic benefits. Still, millions of people in Asia, Latin America, and particularly Africa are still exposed to unacceptable levels of airborne lead.
Phasing Lead out of Gasoline, a joint publication of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), helps policy makers select the best options and programmes for reducing and eventually eliminating the use of lead in gasoline. It provides guidance on the various policy options available, including fuel distribution and vehicle manufacturer approaches. The importance of correct tax or pricing policies is highlighted. Examples from different countries provide real world experience, and a bibliography directs interested readers to related publications.
The publication follows from a consultative meeting organized by UNEP and OECD; its preparation was supported by a contribution from the International Lead Management Center.