MAQS-Health air quality scenario modelling system design feasibility study

The contractor should develop a Methodology for MAQS-Health to assess the impact of a range of policy scenarios (to be provided by Defra, likely to focus on approximately 4 different scenarios for demonstration/ proof-of-concept) on pollutant concentrations (NOx, NO2, PM10 and PM2.5). Emissions used should be based on the UK National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory (NAEI) where possible and other emissions data or inventory that are evidence-based and tested (if latter, this is to be agreed with Defra). Monitoring sites used should be from established network and quality assured. The contractor should also consider and undertake (if possible) any data review and processing; and system development, optimisation and configuration required to advance the project.

Defra's vision of an agile scenario tool is given below. However, we envisage continued discussions with the contractor throughout the project to ensure any system design and model development align to Defra's requirements and expectations.

Key requirements of scenario tool:

• Agile and versatile • Robust and accurate • Consistency (must be able to link with common emission tools/ outputs and ideally Defra's suite of models including the national compliance model and associated outputs) • Transparency (need to be clear how the model works, data and assumptions used) • Reliable and future-proof • Ease of use (by a range of users) • Value-for-money