All aspects of this systems perspective - their interactions across different spatial and temporal scales - are fed into a common framework, the "Greenhouse gas – Air pollution Interactions and Synergies" (GAINS) model.
A variety of systems methods are used to identify concrete measures that yield multiple benefits for local and global policy objectives.
Potential benefits from an integrated systems perspective on air quality management and greenhouse gas mitigation in recent years were identified and highlighted for focus in 2013, and MAG’s work proceeded along five lines:
MAG's scientists are drawn from numerous IIASA member countries and a large network of external collaborators.
To strengthen the scientific understanding of the physical basis for win-win options for development, air quality and climate change, the Mitigation of Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gases (MAG) Program contributed to a number of scientific assessments that were finalized in 2013, including a major assessment on black carbon. More
In 2013, the Mitigation of Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gases (MAG) Program achieved global coverage of its GAINS (Greenhouse gas – Air pollution Interactions and Synergies) tool for the systematic assessment of co-benefits strategies, in close collaboration with a large number of national teams. More
In a review paper, developed in cooperation with colleagues from the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies of Japan, scientists of the Mitigation of Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gases (MAG) Program argued that a multidisciplinary approach, involving the interplay with other policy objectives beyond air quality and climate, is needed to bring policies into line with current research on co-benefits. More
New global emission scenarios enable a fresh perspective on air pollution trends in different world regions, and in particular on the importance of proper governance for future air quality. More
In collaboration with IIASA’s Population Program, the Mitigation of Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gases (MAG) Program produced an innovative model of the interactions between population dynamics, economic growth and investments into environmental protection and the consequences on human well-being. More
The Mitigation of Air Pollution & Greenhouse Gases (MAG) Program has extended its GAINS model to the assessment of mercury (Hg), which is associated with negative impacts on human health. More
The Mitigation of Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gases (MAG) Program contributed to papers that highlight how the global nitrogen cycle could change in the 21st century and the extent to which this is reflected in the current set of global emission scenarios. More
By combining monitoring data with results from atmospheric chemistry and dispersion models at different scales, the Mitigation of Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gases (MAG) Program has developed a new methodology that apportions PM10 and NO2 monitored at street canyon stations to emission sources at the different scales of origin. More
Note
The satellite photograph shows air pollution to be a severe and persistent problem at the foothills of the Himalaya Mountains in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. The haze and pollution back up against the mountains and remain for weeks at a time, posing a severe health hazard. The pollution comes from inefficient wood and dung-fueled heating and cooking devices, as well as forest fires and industrial and urban pollution (abridged from original NASA text).
Research program
International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA)
Schlossplatz 1, A-2361 Laxenburg, Austria
Phone: (+43 2236) 807 0 Fax:(+43 2236) 71 313