Multiscale air quality modelling in Abu Dhabi

“As our mandate is the emirate of Abu Dhabi, we have developed a bespoke Air Quality Modelling System for the emirate that will strengthen our ability to secure better air quality for all.  Science-based decision-making and advanced technologies will create the optimum balance between economic growth, environmental protection, and social wellbeing. The new system will have the immediate capacity to support permitting activities, compliance evaluation and the future development of scenarios. It will also assist with air quality forecasts, public awareness and, most importantly, climate and odour impacts.” Eng Faisal Al Hammadi, Executive Director of the Environmental Quality Sector at EAD.

Challenge

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is the largest environmental regulator in the Middle East. In its ambitious EAD Strategic Plan 2021-2025, the Agency has identified air quality as a key priority focus area. An integrated air quality management plan is in place, employing a cross-sectoral approach to improve air quality, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, and implementing the most suitable policies in close cooperation with other government entities and the private sector.

In alignment with Abu Dhabi's overarching vision for a sustainable future, EAD has entrusted Ricardo with the task of developing a world-class multi-theme air quality modelling system. This innovative system is designed to be a cornerstone in the effective management of air quality, aiding in the identification and selection of measures to reduce air pollution and safeguard human and environmental health throughout Abu Dhabi Emirate. 

Ricardo, together with project partner ELARD, were tasked with the design, implementation and operation of this ambitious initiative, requiring:

1. World class multiscale air quality modelling simulation system
2. Hybrid approach – development of air quality diagnostic and prognostic tools and systems, supplemented by professional consultancy, training and capacity development
3. Leading international modelling team
4. Implementation and operation within EAD’s IT infrastructure using open-source technologies and a novel computational architecture, which EAD will own forever

Approach

Ricardo’s expert air quality modelling team is developing and implementing a comprehensive suite of scientific tools, in combination with methods, workflows, data acquisition, and handling routines to support a legacy within EAD. This is in addition to providing a range of expert consultancy services. The modelling framework for the project includes:

1. Near Field – AERMOD
2. Far Field – CALPUFF
3. Regional – CMAQ and WRF-Chem
4. Meteorological – WRF
5. Forecasting – WRF, CMAQ and WRF-CHEM
6. Trajectory – HYSPLIT

In a ground-breaking move, Ricardo’s team has designed and implemented novel computational architecture that operates on EAD’s IT platform, leveraging open-source technologies, based on some of the most widely used and advanced models from the US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA). This approach not only ensures state-of-the-art modelling accuracy but also positions EAD to operate without incurring high annual subscription fees, through ownership of the Air Quality Modelling System for Abu Dhabi in perpetuity.

Recognising the importance of long-term sustainability, Ricardo has established a tailored training and capacity-building programme. This initiative is designed to cater to a diverse audience, including young scientists, technical staff including air quality specialists, management personnel, policy experts, decision-makers, and communication professionals. By investing in ongoing education, Ricardo’s team are making certain that Abu Dhabi's Modelling Framework remains seamlessly integrated with EAD's broader air quality management systems, empowering stakeholders at every level to make informed decisions and drive positive environmental outcomes.

Outcome

The advanced air quality modelling system goes beyond conventional modelling, providing a range of valuable applications that contribute to informed decision-making:

1. Science-based permitting: Conducting comprehensive assessments of cumulative air quality impacts for new facilities and urban development projects, facilitating science-based permitting processes
2. Policy testing: Evaluating the effectiveness of air pollution control plans, regulations, and strategies through rigorous testing within the modelling system.
3. Targeted inspections: Identifying hotspots related to odours and ambient air quality, enabling targeted inspections and proactive measures to address specific environmental concerns
4. Enhanced monitoring: Complementing EAD's ambient air quality monitoring network with detailed air quality maps, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the air quality landscape
5. Air quality forecasting: Informing and empowering the public through air quality forecasting, raising awareness, and encouraging proactive actions to mitigate potential risks
6. Scientific research: Contributing to scientific research by enhancing the current knowledge about air quality in Abu Dhabi and the UAE

To enhance user experience, Ricardo has developed tailor-made user interfaces (UI) that facilitate easy access and operability of the various models, including ease of selecting data inputs, and interpreting and analysing modelled outputs. This user-friendly interface ensures efficient utilisation of the modelling system's capabilities.

Ricardo's team is also supporting EAD in developing a bespoke communication campaign through the initiative, enabling numerous communication opportunities to raise air quality issues within government, the wider scientific community, and the public through EAD’s website, stakeholder events, social media, press releases and air quality forecast alerts.