Air quality and mobility planning
Air quality is an issue of major concern, especially in urban areas, due to the high level of emissions from road traffic, residential combustion concentrations and unfavourable conditions for the dispersion of contaminants. Through the development of modelling systems, we improve the forecasting of atmospheric composition and air quality from global to local scales. This allows predicting the variations of atmospheric trace gases and aerosols, along with their effects upon air quality, climate and health. The generation of air quality information and services aligns with the concept of smart cities, in which innovative solutions are sought through the integration of technology and innovation to improve the citizens' quality of life.
Decision-makers in cities are more and more interested in air quality forecasts to take preventive action. We provide forecasts of air quality and the concentration of the main pollutants that can be consulted at specific locations. Decision-makers can also assess the impact of air quality management measures on air quality. Potential applications of short term air quality forecasts are:
- Assessment of the effect of management strategies directed to reduce atmospheric pollution and its effects on citizens and the environment (such as the reduction of the number of cars circulating on conurbations, the use of alternative fuels or technology vehicles, and the change in the speed circulation patterns)
- Comprehensive air quality planning
- Contribution to additional knowledge through the generation of big data