Legal metrology and the environment

We use measurements to obtain data

This data can then be used to help make the correct decisions to properly care for our environment

For example:

measurement of the amount of nutrients added to soil, and pesticides applied to crops allow us to determine the optimum dosage to ensure their effectiveness while avoiding possible contamination;
measurement of noise levels and emissions, combined with analysis of the resulting data, allow us to determine any harmful effects and react accordingly;
measurement of the amount of substances in water, soil and the atmosphere makes it possible to determine the environmental impact of human activities, and helps decision makers arrive at viable, cost effective solutions;
measurement of pollutant gases, particulate matter or various forms of radiation aids in the detection of possible hazards in the workplace (or indeed in the home), ensuring that preventive actions are taken; and
measurement of energy consumption (“smart metering”) helps to monitor, better understand and control our use of energy.

Over recent years we have all witnessed environmental changes. Additional measurements must be made in many areas in order to accurately and correctly determine the sources of these changes. In order to make sound policy decisions, decision makers must have confidence in the measurements they use.

The environment: A sound measurement system

A sound measurement system is an essential element to achieve accurate and traceable measurements which will meet with global acceptance. Essential factors for such a system are

traceability to the International System of Units, or SI (scientific metrology),
regulated measurements and measuring instruments (legal metrology), and
confidence in testing and measurement results via certification, standardization, accreditation and calibration (industrial metrology).

In order to maintain a healthy environment, national environmental regulations are typically aligned with international agreements which in turn seek to ensure a globally harmonized approach. Adopting approaches that are based on sound measurements enables governments and industry to prove compliance with regulations and estimate the effects of climate change mitigation policies.

At the international level, the national measurement systems must be compatible and harmonized, and mutual confidence and mutual recognitions are necessary. The International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) and the International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML) coordinate the international network of national metrology institutes and national legal metrology authorities. This network provides the support required to ensure that quality environmental measurements are available.