Air quality research focuses on the chemistry of the atmosphere and how it is changing over time. Research is conducted to better understand how these atmospheric chemical changes affect the physical behaviour of the atmosphere, including the transport, transformation and deposition of atmospheric pollutants. The Air Quality Research branch provides the scientific basis for policy development, air quality predictions, and strategies to minimise the potential negative impacts of these atmospheric pollutants on human and natural ecosystem health.
The research involves long-term monitoring of atmospheric constituents such as stratospheric ozone, acid rain, photochemical smog, greenhouse gases, hazardous air pollutants, and particulate matter. It also involves extensive field experiments for process studies, and the development of numerical modelling techniques for air quality and environmental predictions.
Studies the photochemical balance of the stratosphere.
Conducts long-term measurements to determine the long-term trends and variability of trace gases in the atmosphere, and the impact of human activities on the atmosphere.
Carries out modelling research on the transport, transformation and removal of pollutants by the atmosphere.
Conducts research on the physical, biological and chemical processes that determine the chemistry of the atmosphere.
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