Author(s)

K. Marien, J. Duerinck & R. Torfs

Abstract

EUROS is a European atmospheric dispersion model calculating ozone concentrations as a function of NOx and NMVOC (non-methane volatile organic compounds) emissions and meteorological and geographical data. In this paper we will present a module for evaluation of costs and benefits of emission reduction scenarios and hence of emission reduction policy measures. The data in the module can be located with high geographical detail and can be linked with reduction measures. This link and cost calculation is possible because of the technological and economical data available. 85% of the NOx and 65% of the NMVOC emissions from stationary resources in Belgium were identified in the model and can be linked with reduction technologies. Different scenarios were worked out. Even under maximum reduction the NEC emission ceilings for NMVOC could not be reached. This underlines the importance of a detailed bottom-up approach. EUROS calculated ozone concentrations for different scenarios and locations in Belgium. For the calculation of the benefits, the concentrations are linked with regional data. The cost-benefit analysis indicated that maximum reduction was not profitable for ozone reduction. But indirect benefits are important and equal to costs for NOx reduction. Since foreign emissions were kept constant in this project, it can be concluded that ozone reduction in Belgium is strongly dependent on emission reduction abroad. The combination of EUROS and cost-benefit modules allows quantification and balancing measures and impacts, taking into account geographical location. Further research taking into account foreign countries can lead to interesting conclusions.

Keywords