| Invitation to the 1st Plenary Meeting of the Air Quality Modelling Network FAIRMODE The 1st Plenary Meeting of a new Air Quality Modelling Network - FAIRMODE - will take place on October 10, back-to-back with the Harmo conference. The Network, which is a common effort of EEA and JRC, has emerged to support the proposed new EU Air Quality Directive. It will promote harmonisation in model use through the development and implementation of a common infrastructure, based on best practices for reporting and storing information relevant to AQ modelling. FAIRMODE was established as a joint initiative of EEA and JRC, in a common effort to respond to the requirements of the proposed new Air Quality Directive, with particular focus on the introduction of modelling as a necessary tool for Air Quality Assessment and Air Quality Management. The Directive also explicitly states the need for increased use of AQ modelling, on the basis of good modelling practices, cooperation and information exchange between member states in a systematic and standardised manner. In view of these requirements, the idea for a Modelling Network emerged as a means to promote synergy - at a local and national level - through the development and implementation of a common infrastructure based on best practices for reporting and storing information relevant to AQ modelling. In this way, a repository could be created where tools, results and maps will be readily accessible to authorities and scientists of the member states. FAIRMODE also aims to enhance awareness of model usefulness, reliability and accuracy through model validation and intercomparison exercises. More detailed information on FAIRMODE is available from the dedicated web portal at http://pandora.meng.auth.gr/modnet/. The 1st Plenary Meeting of FAIRMODE will take place on October 10, back-to-back with the 12th International Conference on Harmonisation within Atmospheric Dispersion Modelling for Regulatory Purposes (Cavtat, Croatia, October 6th -9th, 2008). A combination of the two events is pertinent, since one of the main scopes of the network is to promote harmonisation in modelling practices between EU countries. The plenary meeting will include a comprehensive presentation of the structure, aim and objectives, as well as the workplan of FAIRMODE. The meeting will constitute the kick-off of the network activities, and will thus provide an excellent opportunity for network members to meet and organise future steps. Invited experts and interested parties will be able to comment on the concept and current plan according to their needs and wishes. In particular, subjects such as how effective communication could be achieved and which aspects of model uncertainty are important will be brought forward. The session will be co-chaired by EEA and JRC. A letter of invitation of July 7, 2008 gives information on how to sign up for the event.
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© 2008 MHSC