Recent controversies on pollution and the use of resources are reviewed against the background of the U.N. Conference on the Human Environment. The predictions of disaster are not supported by the positive advances in controlling air and water pollution in the U.K. The particular cases of cleaner air and biological recovery in the Thames Estuary are described against the background of pollution legislation. Many improvements arise from technological advance and the use of mathematical models is opening the way to stricter audits of pollution. Real progress can be made by identifying priorities and combining official action with public participation.
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