Throughout this assessment it is referred to as the Solvent Emissions Directive. The purpose of the Directive is to prevent or reduce the direct and indirect effects of emissions of volatile organic compounds into the environment, mainly into air and the potential risks to human health. These health effects are primarily due to high ground level ozone concentrations, which in Europe often exceed the threshold at which adverse effects occur. This Regulatory and Environmental Impact Assessment is intended to cover the implementation of the Solvent Emissions Directive in Scotland. The Directive itself will apply also in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Ozone can impair lung function and cause symptoms such as cough and discomfort on deep breathing.
Ozone may cause acute effects to vegetation when high concentrations occur for short periods. However, chronic and subtle effects from long lasting or repeated exposure are usually more important. This can be as a result of changes in physiological processes such as photosynthesis, causing inhibition of carbohydrate production and distribution. This can decrease leaf and root vitality resulting in a reduction of growth and crop production. There is a vast array of organic solvents in use, and some of these can have direct effects on human health.