CALPUFF, CALINE and COPERT models
Local-scale modeling is used for air quality environmental impact assessment for the preparation of traditional environmental impact studies, Single Environmental Permits, and Integrated Environmental and Health Impact Assessment concerning facilities whose influence falls within a few kilometerskilometres of the emission.
Estimation of pollutant dispersion in the atmosphere can be done with models such as CALPUFF and CALINE. CALPUFF is a Lagrangian, nonstationary Gaussian puff, multi-layer, multi-pollutant model distributed and recommended by the U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) for estimating the impact of local-scale emission sources with complex meteorological conditions.
CALINE, on the other hand, is a stationary Gaussian plume dispersion model indicated for roadways, hence linear sources. It is recommended by EPA for estimating the impact of major road infrastructure. Both models need weather input.
Modeling simulations usually refer to a time frame of one year in order to evaluate all possible meteorological conditions and in order to calculate all statistical parameters required by current air quality regulations (annual averages, various percentiles, number of exceedances of hourly, daily averages…).
COPERT (COmputer Program to calculate Emissions from Road Transport), on the other hand, is the European reference model for CORINAIR traffic emission simulations. The model uses vehicle fleet, mileage, speed, and other data such as ambient temperature and allows calculation of emissions and energy consumption for the area under consideration.
