Use of advanced regional airshed models to study the effect of alternatively fueled vehicles in urban air quality

Strict, ambient level standards concerning ozone and particulate matter2.5 (particulate matter) have recently been introduced in Canada. The formation of these substances is dependent on chemical reactions in the atmosphere among primary emitted substances like nitrogen oxide, volatile organic compounds, ammonia, and sulphur dioxide. Therefore ozone and particulate matter have been classed as secondary. Complex modelling systems were created in an effort to better understand the origin of the ozone and particulate matter levels. The models include MC2/Calgrid, PATH framework in Hong Kong and the Models 3 Framework in the United States. The modelling systems enable scientists to assess air quality problems on a regional basis as well as the determination of appropriate potential solutions. The results of recent modelling efforts in Canada were reported on in this paper. The results of an assessment of the effects of alternatively fuelled vehicles on the ozone levels in the Vancouver area were included. 12 refs., 2 tabs., 9 figs