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Description
The project aims at providing new scientific knowledge on air pollution that is not currently available in Cyprus, with the expected positive impact of implementing efficient abatement strategies, improving air quality, and reducing human exposure. This will be done through the studies that will contribute to a better understanding of the local versus transported (e.g. transboundary) air pollution and provide air quality forecasts as well as testing of new technologies. The main activities of the project are related to research and innovation.
Main activities shall include:
- development of atmospheric monitoring programme;
- testing of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)-based technology for air pollution;
- air pollution modelling over Cyprus;
- performing climate change projections and risks assessment analyses.
Summary of project results
The Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East are proven to be among the most vulnerable regions to climate change. Cyprus is located at air pollution crossroads, with diverse atmospheric transport pathways. Air pollution poses significant threats to human health and the environment. The aim of the project was to provide new scientific knowledge on the air pollution that was not currently available in Cyprus. This was expected to have a positive impact on implementing effective pollution reduction strategies, improving the air quality and reducing human exposure to air pollution.
Through the project, modern equipment was purchased in order to monitor air pollution and conduct research that contributed to the understanding of local and transboundary pollution. The development and testing of innovative technologies to improve air quality and staff training were also funded.
The scientific progress of the project was in line with the timeframe and the project implementation has been successfully completed and all the equipment has been purchased. The implementation of the project contributed to a better understanding of local versus transportable (e.g. transboundary) air pollution and to the provision of air quality forecasts, as well as to tests of new technologies. ACCEPT contributed in defining and establishing objectives for ambient air quality designed to avoid, prevent or reduce harmful effects on human health and the environment, while also ensuring that such information on ambient air quality is made available to the public. From the project 24 researchers were supported with scientific knowledge on air pollution.