Project

From pollution data to action

ATMOPOLIS, a European project dedicated to understanding the dangers
of air and noise pollution by fostering citizen participation to better assess
public perception and exposure, and aiming to reduce pollution impacts.

The challenge

Air and noise pollution remain persistent urban challenges in Europe, with major impacts on health, wellbeing, and quality of life, especially for vulnerable groups. Cities need solutions that reflect real exposure patterns, local contexts, and the social conditions that shape both risk and acceptance.

Our approach

Monitored and experienced pollution

Measurement campaigns in London, Tampere, and Sarajevo will study pollution in homes, during commutes, and during the day-to-day activities to understand the day-to-day exposures of different types of people. Photovoice will be used to link measurements to peoples understanding of pollution, their behaviours, and the types of changes they would like to see.

Community and Modelled Noise Pollution

We will leverage the world’s largest database of measured and reported noise pollution to identify where, and what types, of noise pollution have the largest impact on the community, and model how policies may reduce noise pollution levels

Air Pollution, Climate, and Economic Modelling

ATMOPOLIS will use state-of-the-art atmospheric modelling, combined with the widely used Greenhous Gas-Air Pollution Interactions and Synergies (GAINS) model, to understand air pollution and climate impacts of different policies. An urban Integrated Assessment Model will be developed for all large cities across Europe to evaluate the pollution, health, climate, and economic costs of different measures, helping cities to make the best decisions in order to meet zero pollution and net zero goals.

Health Impact Modelling

ATMOPOLIS will study the health impacts of pollution and health inequalities. It will address knowledge gaps in health impacts, going beyond physical to mental health, wellbeing, and the social determinants which can drive health inequalities. For modelled noise and air pollution, it will develop a state-of-the-art health impact model to understand the health implications of concurrent exposure to multiple pollutants over time, as well as investigate health inequalities that exist or may arise from different measures.

Evidence to Impact

Research will be translated into real-world actions that can help reach zero pollution goals. ATMOPOLIS will work with cities to understand policies to model, map the different opportunities and barriers to success of these policies, identify unintended consequences, and use evidence to help policymakers co-design policy pathways to achieve ambitious pollution and climate goals. Research with citizens will examine how digital communication tools can not just communicate pollution levels, but support behavioural change and better community decision-making.

partners

M€

countries

months

Our pilot cities

ATMOPOLIS works with five contrasting European cities to understand air and noise pollution in real-life settings. Together, they represent different urban sizes, pollution sources and social contexts, helping the project develop approaches that are relevant, inclusive and adaptable across Europe.