In most urban areas of the world, particulate matter (PM) levels pose severe
problems, addressed in several policy areas (air quality, climate change, and
human health). PM presents multiple challenges due to the multitude of its
sources, spanning many sectors of economic activity as well as nature, and
due to the complexity of atmospheric processes involved in its transport and
secondary formation. For the authorities, the goal is to assure minimal
impacts of atmospheric PM levels, in practice represented by compliance with
existing regulations and standards. This may be achieved through an air
quality management plan (AQMP). In Northern America and in parts of Europe,
comprehensive research programs have guided development of AQMP over the last
forty years. This cumulated experience can be utilized by others who face the
same problems, but have yet to develop their own substantial research base.
The main purpose of the AQMP development process is to establish an effective
and sound basis for planning and management of air quality in a selected
area. This type of planning will ensure that significant sources of impacts
are identified and controlled in a most cost-effective manner. The choice of
tools, methods and input information is often dictated by their availability,
and should be evaluated against current best practices. Important elements of
the AQMP are the identification of sources and development of a complete
emission inventory, the development and operation of an air quality
monitoring programme, and the development and application of atmospheric
dispersion models. Major task is to collect the necessary input data. The
development of the AQMP will take into account: - Air Quality Management
System (AQMS) requirements; - Operational and functional structure
requirements; - Source identification through emission inventories; - Source
reduction alternatives, which may be implemented; - Mechanisms for
facilitating interdepartmental cooperation in order to assure that actions
are being taken; - Institutional building and training requirements This
paper offers a practical guide through the different parts of the air quality
management and planning procedures.