About CityTRAQ

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), air pollution remains the largest environmental health risk in Europe. Much of the population is exposed to it on a regular basis. Europe already has several initiatives for measuring air quality, but these initiatives often adopt different approaches or methodologies.

For policymakers, it is, however, essential to reconcile the different data in order to implement science-based air and mobility policies. Within the European Life CityTRAQ project we are working together accordingly with six partners in order to improve our local air quality. Thanks to information from traffic censuses and air quality measurements, we can detect and measure air pollution and simulate the impact of possible measures on the mobility network.

The assessment and scenario tool

Using an assessment and a scenario tool, CityTRAQ combines the relevant air quality information in a single coherent image. That interactive image guides cities and towns with regard to:

the exploration of their local domain,
the identification of local hotspots, and
the support for solutions

Assessment tool

Thanks to the screening tool, locations with poor air quality can be identified. By using a map viewer, hotspots and sources of air pollution can be detected.

Scenario tool

Cities can use the tool in order to simulate the effect of different scenarios (measures that will improve air quality) on air quality. Such as, for example, considering the impact of a one-way street or a school street. This helps local governments to prepare an air policy plan.

Why Are We Doing This?

A positive impact on health

By detecting hotspots and instituting measures to improve air quality, we can reduce the negative health consequences of poor air quality.

A positive social impact

We engage citizens, schools and other stakeholders and increase awareness with respect to air quality.

A positive economic impact

Improved health reduces health care costs.