The Joaquin project developed a brand new tool to guide policy makers and other stakeholders through the myriad of available air quality measures. This report explains the process of developing the tool, how the evaluation was set up and finally how to use the tool.
The Joaquin project featured pilot measures in five hot spot regions in Northwest Europe. The project also encouraged exchanging information between local authorities on other measures than the pilots. As a result this report provides a full analysis and evaluation of the implementation process which was carried out.
Air quality models are used in all regions of Northwest Europe and Joaquin improved these models by adding elemental carbon and ultrafine particle capabilities. This study provides a thorough comparison of the Chimere, BelEUROS, AURORA and LOTO-EUROS models for particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide and elemental carbon.
To assess the transnational impact of air pollution, Joaquin used model input to construct a blame matrix. This report on the blame matrix shows each region’s contribution to air pollution in the other regions of Northwest Europe.
Joaquin studied the effect of air filtration on indoor air quality in relation to outdoor air pollution from traffic. This report shows that high performance air filtration can reduce exposure to traffic-related air pollution in schools.
Similar to our work in schools, this study reveals the effect of a vehicle filtration system on air pollution levels inside a car. Depending on the ventilation mode, the system can have a significant impact on air pollution levels.
Through model calculations this study evaluates the effects of 2 local and 4 regional air quality measures, should they be introduced in the NW European region. This document demonstrates that there is a wide range of effects depending on the type of measure used.
Joaquin was supported by INTERREG IV-B, A European programme that promotes cooperation between regions from different countries.The project finished in 2015.
Flanders Environment Agency (VMM) covers three main areas: water, air quality and climate (adaptation).
