Triples with object The Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution is intended to protect the human environment against air pollution. Several studies performed between 1972 and 1977 had shown that air pollutants could travel several thousand kilometres before deposition. Problems caused by air pollution therefore need to be addressed on the international level. Signed in 1979 and entering into force in 1983, the Convention was the first international legally binding instrument in this area. It has created the framework for controlling and reducing the damage to human health and to the environment caused by transboundary air pollution. The Convention identifies the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) as its secretariat.