The project
Despite notable advancements and adherence to strict emission standards, adverse health effects continue to raise concerns. The concept of “real-world” emissions signifies a partial success of existing measures and technological advances in controlling fossil fuel emissions. However, emerging sources like non-exhaust emissions and microplastics pose new challenges. mITRAP focuses on mitigating uncertainties associated with these sources, particularly internal combustion engines, by examining their physicochemical transformation from tailpipe/stack to the ambient environment.
The project addresses the limitations in metrics and parameterization employed in environmental monitoring networks and measurement systems. Currently, these inadequacies hinder the accurate representation of materials initially emitted by engines certified by manufacturers and controlled by legislation. By employing innovative monitoring devices, advanced data analysis, and management schemes, mITRAP aims to establish a network of monitoring stations strategically located near transport emission hotspots.
Despite notable progress, urban air quality remains a complex concern with significant public interest. The project addresses critical issues arising from transport emissions, particularly in high-impact zones.
While adhering to stringent emission standards, the term “real-world” emissions signifies a measure of success in emission control measures. Recognizing the emerging significance of new sources like non-exhaust emissions and microplastics, MI-TRAP addresses the evaluation and mitigation of these sources, especially the physicochemical transformation of internal combustion engine emissions, posing substantial challenges. The project also emphasizes the importance of monitoring emerging air quality parameters, such as ultrafine particles (UFP) and Black Carbon (BC), for gaining a better understanding of air pollution. The existing metrics and parameterization in environmental monitoring systems often inadequately represent the initial material emitted by certified engines, complicating the link between health and environmental effects and specific transport modes.
MI-TRAP adopts a multidimensional approach to bridge these gaps, introducing innovative solutions. The project’s initiatives include advanced monitoring capabilities, analytical tools, and strategically positioned monitoring stations near emission hotspots.
The project will be implemented in ten cities across Europe, aiming to characterize the footprint of transport emission sources and assess their impact on air quality and human health. A network of monitoring stations [link to 2. Pilot Campaigns] strategically placed near emission hotspots aims to trace pollutants, evaluate legislation efficacy, and assess health impacts. Nature-based solutions (NBS) and citizen science practices are integral components, ensuring community engagement and open-science initiatives
The outcomes will be integrated with epidemiological studies across Europe aiming to extract the specific impact of transport emissions on health.
Aligned with the EU Green Deal Zero Pollution Action Plan, MI-TRAP sets out to achieve five main objectives:
- Bridging Gaps: Addressing disparities between transport emission standards and ambient air quality limit values.
- Real-time Monitoring: Enabling dynamic traffic/port/air/rail management through real-time air quality monitoring.
- Supporting Reduction Plans: Backing emissions and noise reduction plans.
- Ready-to-Use Technologies: Establishing innovative tools and solutions.
- Citizen Engagement: Enforcing the zero pollution strategy by engaging citizens through a citizen science methodology as part of open science practices.