AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT: WEB-BASED TOOLS

Abstract:

Within the framework of the international RTD project WEBAIR (EUREKA E! 3266 EUROENVIRON), a web-based air quality assessment and management information system is being developed in collaboration of partners from 18 countries (http://www.ess.co.at/WEBAIR). WEBAIR integrates a range of ITC tools and state-of-the-art models, including emission inventories and dynamic emission modeling, prognostic meteorological forecasts (MM5, WRF) downscaled to the regional/urban level, a range of air quality models including 3D nested grid photochemical codes (CAMx), and regulatory models like AERMOD for long-term runs in EIA applications. WEBAIR combines data management and analysis for regional physiographic background data, monitoring data and emission sources (ranking and benchmarking supporting administrative tasks), with real-time nowcasting (monitoring cum modeling with data assimilation in real-time), dynamic emission modeling (with an hourly resolution), regular daily forecasts over several days, a public information and early warning functionality for compliance and expected violations of air quality standards. The web based implementation facilitates open access and collaboration not only for several distributed institutions, major emitters, actors and stakeholders, but also the general public by providing a shred information basis and common tools for assessment and eventually decision support. In parallel to the real-time operational use, the system offers tools for scenario analysis to address WHAT-IF questions, sensitivity analysis, and impact assessment. The third main component is designed for the multi-criteria optimization of emission reduction strategies and policies, to meet environmental objectives (e.g., reducing population exposure) at minimal costs. Among the objectives and criteria for the emission control, CO2 and GHG emission can be included, exploiting the possibility to use measurable air pollutants for (emission and dispersion) model calibration and validation to also cover co-benefits in the objectives of control strategies. Project results are presented with current applications for the Republic of Cyprus, Seoul/South Korea, and Tehran, Iran.