Research project BElgian Ammonia assessed using innovative Multiscale Measurements and Modelling

General introduction

Can we better understand and quantify emissions of atmospheric ammonia (NH3) from agriculture and industry? That is the research question in BEAM. Ammonia (NH3), as a gaseous substance, is a source of secondary inorganic aerosol formation. When deposited, it is harmful to nature. Despite the importance of this pollutant, knowledge about its emissions is still highly subject to uncertainties. This project done in Belgium studies the sources, the precise processes in the atmosphere and the subsequent deposition.

Research approach

The project uses a unique set of complementary measurement techniques, consisting of in-situ ground-based measurements and infrared remote sensing from the ground, aircraft and satellites. Modeling state-of-the-art data collection at very high spatial resolution not only enables upscaling, it also builds a better bridge between the different spatial and temporal scales than has been done before. The focus area of this project is Belgium and the Netherlands, two NH3 hotspots in Europe.

Relevance/Valorization

The results of this project are expected to optimize Belgian emission inventories, and on a broader level, top-down emissions that can be derived from current (IASI, CrIS) and future satellite noise meters (IRS, Nitrosat). The tools developed may also be able to contribute greatly to the policy-making process aimed at reducing the environmental impact of agriculture and nitrogen pollution in Belgium.

Financing

Belspo - Belgian Science Polycy