A parameterization of the effects of Rossby waves in the middle atmosphere is proposed for use in two-dimensional models. By adding an equation for conservation of Rossby wave activity, closure is obtained for the meridional eddy fluxes and body force due to Rossby waves. Rossby wave activity is produced in a climatological fashion at the tropopause, is advected by a group velocity which is determined solely by model zonal winds, and is absorbed where it converges. Absorption of Rossby wave activity causes both an easterly torque and an irreversible mixing of potential vorticity, represented by the meriodional eddy diffusivity, Kyy. The distribution of Rossby wave driving determines the distribution of Kyy, which is applied to all of the chemical constituents. This provides a self-consistent coupling of the wave activity with the winds, tracer distributions, and the radiative field. Typical winter stratospheric values for Kyy of 2¿106 m2 s-1 are obtained. Poleward tracer advection is enhanced and meridional tracer gradients are reduced where Rossby wave activity is absorbed in the model. ¿ American Geophysical Union 1988