ABSTRACT
Stratospheric pollution is one of a generic class of problems that require policy decisions. The distinguishing features of this class arise from: (1) the uncertainties associated with both the benefits and the costs of alternative policy options; (2) the time horizon required for information to become available that would resolve these uncertainties (through the appearance of the effects of the pollution); and (3) the potential for irreversible changes in the character of the environmental system as a result of progressive increases in the concentration of stratospheric pollution. Any evaluation of the benefits and costs of particular policies to control stratospheric pollution must recognize these dimensions of the problem.
