Modelling and assessing air emissions

The CALPUFF modelling system can be used for regulatory applications in NSW where the AUSPLUME dispersion model is not approved or suitable for use.  It includes the CALMET and CALPUFF models.

The system offers a

• diagnostic meteorology model to resolve fine scale terrain effects
• a non-steady state approach to pollutant dispersion appropriate for complex terrain such as coastlines and valleys

The CALPUFF Modelling System guidance document (PDF 980KB) prepared by TRC Environmental provides

To ensure assessment practices in NSW are consistent with best practice and contemporary science, the EPA commissioned reports which catalogue assessment methodologies in other jurisdictions. The EPA uses these reports to ensure assessment practices adopted in NSW are consistent with best practice approaches and contemporary scientific understanding. This ensures assessment is as accurate as possible.

When assessing the air quality impacts from emissions of oxides of nitrogen (NO_x) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from their premises, industry needs to consider the potential generation of ground-level ozone. EPA commissioned Environ to develop a tiered approach for assessing ozone impacts. The tiered approach has an initial screening to determine whether detailed analysis is needed. The approach includes

• initial screening using an Excel based tool (level 1)
• a refined procedure (level 2)

Download

• Ozone impact assessment summary (PDF 59KB)
• Tiered procedure for estimating ground-level ozone impacts from stationary sources (PDF 3MB)
• Level 1 assessment – screening procedure tool (XLS 2MB)