The paper gives updated details of major flue gas desulfurization (FGD) and denitrification (de-NOx) installations in West Germany for coal-fired boilers. The paper provides an understanding of the principal types of control system designs that have been applied, outlines technological advancements that have been achieved, and reviews operating experience gained to date in expanded use of FGD and NOx removal facilities in Europe in the 1980s. It describes significant differences between FGD service and practice in the U.S. and Japan, and gives specific information that may help improve operation and reliability of new and retrofit FGD installations in the U.S. Principal topics include: government emission control requirements in Europe for new and existing coal-fired sources; West German FGD and de-NOx installations and purchase commitments; control of industrial boilers; management of solid and liquid waste by-products; substantial activities in other European countries.