VITO’s air quality modelling experts have been supporting the Flemish governmental administrations responsible for air quality monitoring, assessment and reporting since 2009.
Our air quality modelling support and services are provided within a framework agreement between the Flemish Government and VITO. The goal of this reference task is to develop, configure and perform annual updates of the operational air quality models that are used by the Flemish governmental bodies, to support the implementation and management of the EU air quality directives in the Flanders region.
VITO's ATMOSYS team develops and maintains air quality models that are used by Flemish governmental bodies in studies and activities to support the implementation and management of the EU air quality directives in the Flanders region.
The models cover the regional to street scale scales. In recent years, VITO has been supporting the development and maintenance of web based analysis decision support tools and viewers for the Flemish Government reference task.
In addition to these core modelling activities and operational support, VITO also undertakes a range of dedicated projects for the Flemish governmental administrations, responding to specific policy needs, urban development challenges, and innovation priorities.
- Flanders AI Research Programme: As part of the broader Flanders AI Research Programme, VITO is advancing the use of artificial intelligence for environmental applications. The research aims to develop innovative AI models and workflows that improve air quality forecasting, accelerate scenario analysis, and enable more effective decision support tools for Flemish authorities.
- Air Quality Guidance for Urban Developments in Antwerp: In this project, VITO provided tailored modelling and expert guidance to assess and manage air quality impacts associated with new urban developments in Antwerp. The work supports city planners and environmental authorities in integrating air quality considerations into spatial planning, helping to ensure compliance with health and environmental standards as the city evolves.
- Model Predicts Air Quality At Tunnel Exits: This study focused on evaluating pollutant concentrations and dispersion patterns in the vicinity of tunnel portals. VITO’s team carried out ATMO-Flow simulations to better understand local air quality risks and quantify the effect mitigation strategies near tunnel portals.
