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Air Quality Modeling
Overview
Air quality models use mathematical and numerical techniques to simulate
the physical and chemical processes that affect air pollutants as they disperse
and react in the atmosphere. Based on inputs of meteorological data and source
parameter information like emission rates and stack height, these models are
designed to characterize primary pollutants that are emitted directly into the
atmosphere. These models are important to our air quality management process
because they assist in determining compliance with National / State Ambient Air
Quality Standards (NAAQS /SAAQS) and other regulatory requirements such as New
Source Review (NSR), evaluate projects subject to California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) review, and assist in the design of effective strategies to
reduce harmful air pollutants. For example, air quality models can be used
during the permitting process to verify that a new source will not exceed ambient
air quality standards and will not have a negative impact on public health.
In addition, air quality models can also be used to predict future
pollutant concentrations from multiple sources after the implementation of
a new regulatory program in order to estimate the effectiveness of the
program in reducing harmful exposures to humans and the environment.
District Links
External Links
Air quality modeling resources are available on the both the California Air Resources Board (CARB)
and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) websites.
The following links will connect you to these external sites:
- California Air Resources Board
- Environmental Protection Agency
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