English Abstract Although the available data are insufficient for a
sound risk assessment it seems to be justified to conclude that the risks
for humans and for aquatic and soil organisms resulting from the current and
future concentrations of ethylene are limited. In contrast to this, the
ethylene concentrations in the air may affect susceptible plant species
crops. However, it should be noted that the scale at which the vegetation
is affected is is difficult to estimate at the present stage of data
information and analysis. Ethylene concentrations in air are largely
determined by natural sources. Elevated harmful concentrations occur in
cities (traffic) and in the vicinity of industrial point sources (chemical
industry). It is recommended to draw an integrated criteria document that
is focussed to the risk assessment for plants.
