A comparative evaluation of the major pollution control programs in the United States and West Germany

In order to provide a more adequate means for the preservation and the enhancement of the environment, the United States and West Germany (the Federal Republic of Germany) have either created new institutions or altered existing agencies for the implementation of public policy. Along with these developments, a series of programs have been specifically designed to foster and maintain a quality environment. In this article, we examine the particular strategies employed in the implementation of environmental pollution control laws through the new or altered administrative arrangements in the two countries. The basic tools employed to implement environmental management strategies can be grouped as follows: traditional regulatory procedures, economic incentive concepts, information and volunteerism concepts, and government induced technological changes (USEPA 1976a). The following are examples of these techniques:

1. Traditional regulatory procedures
   1. laws
   2. ordinances
   3. permits
   4. zoning
2. Economic incentive concepts
   1. fines
   2. emission and effluent charges
   3. differential property rates
   4. subsidies
3. Information and volunteerism concepts
   1. labeling programs
   2. increased dissemination through mass media
4. Government-induced technological changes
   1. container controls
   2. subsidized recycling programs
   3. subsidized mass transportation systems

The specific applicability of any of these techniques varies with the particular type and degree of pollution control necessary. In some instances, a combination of these techniques may be appropriate. The degree of public acceptability and cost-effectiveness of the various techniques may vary as a result of regional differences. Furthermore, the success of all of these techniques is dependent upon a high degree of voluntary compliance. Through the examination of the various policy implementation strategies we should be able to appreciate the interrelationships between the different levels of government in pollution control efforts in the United States and West Germany.