Laboratory for Air Pollution / Environmental Technology
Mission of the LaboratoryOur vision is the reduction of anthropogenic air constituents relevant to climate change, human health, ecosystems, materials and infrastructure.
In support of this vision, we characterize the emissions, the transport and the fate of man-made air pollutants and greenhouse gases to provide the scientific basis for most effectively reducing their impact. Our research relies on excellence in measurement techniques and atmospheric modeling, and data fusion methods integrating observations and simulations.
To achieve our goal, we pursue the following strategy:
(i) we develop new analytical tools that go beyond commercially available instruments to observe greenhouse gases and air pollutants at various spatial and temporal scales;
(ii) we create, exploit and expand state-of-the-art atmospheric model systems to understand the major processes relevant for current and future air quality objectives;
(iii) we combine ground-based observations and remote sensing with model calculations for the identification and quantification of the sources of air pollutants and greenhouse gases in order to support inventories, validate predicted emission trends, and to detect sources of previously unreported compounds at the earliest possible time;
(iv) we share our knowledge with the scientific community, political decision makers, and commercial stakeholders. We also acknowledge the global dimension of air quality and climate change by supporting international collaboration, capacity building and knowledge transfer.
Our research provides the scientific basis to initiate and evaluate technical solutions supporting the reduction of anthropogenic emissions and guiding decision makers in the field of environmental politics.
Our activities span from the regional to the urban scale. We provide knowledge and technologies for the reduction of air pollutants and greenhouse gases. This is our contribution to a healthy environment, sustainable cities, environmental innovations and climate actions.