In this third of three articles on the economics of pollution control general statements from several sources present a background which questions our ability to devise the necessary tools to fight pollution, even if adequate expenditures of money are provided. In the struggle to control pollution, the economist, it is believed, can provide insight into the economic roots of pollution and in forging the tools of environmental control. Insights discussed are: (1) clean air and water, although owned in common, are not free, (2) pollution knows no boundaries, being most damaging in cities where population and physical resources are concentrated, (3) increased growth in our nation's output of goods and services, (4) the operation of the market mechanism - how to make it profitable to reduce pollution when it now relies on profit maximization or cost minimization incentives. A pro and con discussion is given of the possibility of levying emission or effluent fees on those who pollute. Accompanying this is a flow sheet of production and consumption with the resultant waste products, showing how "recycling" waste products could make pollution control economically justifiable. Also included is a plan for teaching a unit on pollution control in the senior high school. (BL)