INTRODUCTION 



The Joint US-USSR Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Environmental 



Protection was established in May of 1972. These proceedings result from 



one of the projects. Project 02.02-13, Effects of Pollutants Upon Aquatic 

 Ecosystems and Permissible Levels of Pollution. 



As knowledge related to fate and transport of pollutants has grown, it 

 has become increasingly apparent that local and even national approaches to 

 solving pollution problems are insufficient. Not only are the problems 

 themselves frequently international, but an understanding of alternate 

 methodological approaches to the problem can avoid needless duplication of 

 efforts. This expansion of interest from local and national represents a 

 logical and natural maturation from the provincial to a global concern for 

 the environment. 



In general, mankind is faced with very similar environmental problems 

 regardless of the national of political boundaries which we have erected. 

 While the problems may vary slightly in type or degree, the fundamental and 

 underlying factors are remarkably similar. It is not surprising, therefore, 

 that the interests and concerns of environmental scientists the world over 

 are also quite similar. In this larger sense, we are our brother's brother, 

 and have the ability to understand our fellowman and his dilemma, if we but 

 take the trouble to do so. It is this singular idea of concerned scientists 

 exchanging views with colleagues that provides the basic strength for this 

 project. While our methods may vary, our goals are identical, and therein 

 lies the value of such a cooperative effort. 



Wayland R. Swain, Ph.D., and 

 Richard A. Schoettger, Ph.D. 

 Co-Project Leaders, U.S. Side 



