For water and air pollution control, various countries have laid down effluent and emission standards. These standards are to meet the national requirement, which may or may not match with those formulated by other countries. Nevertheless, for comparison of pollution control norms, it is useful to know about the standards which are adopted in various countries. It helps in ascertaining the road map for pollution control at the global level as well as country - specific priorities. Collation of such information also helps us in formulation of Minimal National Standards (MINAS) which are based on environmental imperatives and techno-economic considerations.

In this report, an attempt has been made to compile the water and air pollution control standards practised in various countries. My colleague, Dr. B. K. Chaudhuri, Senior Environmental Engineer has collected the information and prepared this report. We hope, it will serve as a ready reckoner to those concerned with pollution control activities.