RIAHORIZON-CL6-2025-01-ZEROPOLLUTION-01

Innovative and advanced monitoring and modelling systems for revised air quality policies

Horizon Europe

Per project€10M

1 phase

Deadline:2025-09-17

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Strategic Analysis

This call seeks to significantly advance air quality monitoring and modelling by developing innovative, cost-effective, and integrated solutions. A winning proposal will demonstrate a clear path from cutting-edge research (AI, low-cost sensors, satellite data) to practical, operational tools that directly support the implementation of the revised Ambient Air Quality Directive (AAQD) and the EU's Zero Pollution ambition, ensuring data accessibility for public authorities and empowering citizens.

Scope Activities (3)

SC1

develop or improve cost-effective monitoring and modelling tools, approaches and methods for different types of well-known and emerging air pollutants and pollution sources, addressing the most urgent needs in measurement accuracy (including temporal aspects such as real-time monitoring and modelling) and dispersion mapping, in support of the implementation of the revised AAQD;

SC2

develop methodologies and recommendations for designing optimal monitoring networks, considering relevant aspects of different spatial locations (hotspots as well as urban and rural background locations), combining traditional reference measurements and innovative measurement techniques, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the use of innovative low-cost sensors. Recommendations should consider also funding challenges and opportunities;

SC3

improve the processing and integration of in situ, ground-based remote sensing and satellite (e.g. Sentinels) observations, and air quality numerical models utilising various methods, like for example AI algorithms and finite elements modelling.

Expected Outcomes (3)

EO1

public authorities and other relevant stakeholders (e.g., researchers, NGOs and patient organisations and providers of care especially to vulnerable groups) have access to better and cost-effective solutions to detect, measure, monitor and assess air pollution, including its sources and impacts, as well as pathways for their integration into operational atmospheric monitoring services and networks;

EO2

enhanced and more rapidly accessible air quality data and information support science-based decision-making, and policy development at local and national levels, ultimately leading to more effective air quality measures aligned with the revised EU air policy, as well as to more efficient use of EU, public and private funding for improving air quality;

EO3

increased public awareness and more accurate information of local air quality issues lead to healthier behaviours of citizens, particularly vulnerable groups and sensitive populations (e.g., during air pollution peak periods), including by supporting better evidence-based access to justice related to negative effects of air pollution.