Annual High-Resolution Maps
Through the LIFE Emerald project, Ireland has developed state of the art modelling infrastructure to produce annual high resolution (up to 10 x 10 m) national air quality maps. The EPA will utilise this infrastructure to create annual average maps, once a year to fill in unmonitored gaps across the country. This level of detail will substantially improve our understanding of air pollution across the country.
Pollutants mapped include:
- Particulate matter 2.5 micrometers in size (PM2.5)
- Particulate matter 10 micrometers in size (PM10)
- Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
- Ozone (O3)
The EPA rigorously review and check all model inputs and outputs to ensure maps are based on best available data and are representative. These models are benchmarked against European standards and are more accurate than similar models. There is a slight tendency to over predict higher concentrations particularly on streets flanked by buildings.