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The environmental challenge for analytical sciences

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Abstract

In this paper the major elements of the European Union’s policy on environmental protection and sustainable development and the resulting challenges for analytical sciences are presented. The priority issues dealt with are:

  • Sustainable management of natural resources: air, water and soil

  • Climate change and clean energy

  • Global development cooperation

Analytical sciences are required to provide policy-relevant information for the development and implementation of European Union legislation and form a strong pillar for a sustainable evolution of our region and our planet. It shows what information needs to be provided, how the necessary quality levels can be achieved and what new approaches, e.g. combining measurements and modelling, or earth observations with in situ chemical/physical measurements, need to be taken to achieve an integrated assessment of the state of the environment and to develop approaches for sustainable development.

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Declaration

The content of this paper is based on research results obtained at the Joint Research Centre, which provides science-based support to the European Commission for questions relating to the sustainable development of the European Union.

Disclaimer

The content of this paper cannot be interpreted as an official statement of the European Commission, even if it reflects the political intentions of the European Union.

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Correspondence to Manfred Grasserbauer.

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Grasserbauer, M. The environmental challenge for analytical sciences. Anal Bioanal Chem 397, 17–23 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00216-009-3377-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00216-009-3377-5

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