About the training
The SERVIR-HKH Initiative of the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) is organising a one-day workshop focusing on multi-satellite and model air quality data products and their practical applications, such as emission source identification, air pollution assessment study in comprehending air pollution and the related challenges in the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region. The workshop agenda is designed to provide participants with a blend of theoretical insights and applications, encompassing cutting-edge technologies and information on data analytics.
Objectives
- The significance of air quality data in effectively managing air quality issues within the HKH region
- Showcase how air quality data products can be practically utilised to address air quality challenges and provide insights into these products’ technical aspects and capabilities
- Facilitate knowledge exchange between experts, policymakers, and scientists to enhance collective understanding and effectiveness in managing air quality issues
Expected outcomes
Upon completion of the workshop, participants will have a better understanding of satellite, model, and assimilated air quality data products and their uses. They will utilise this knowledge to support air pollution monitoring and management in the region.
Furthermore, they will have access to a vast AQ data platform, which they can utilise for capacity building, training, and various other purposes, such as public awareness and policy support.
Expected participants
Overall, 40 participants from AAB, SERVIR-HKH, IDT
Resource persons/facilitators
ICIMOD
Arun B Shrestha, Strategic Group Lead 1: Reducing Climate and Environmental Risks
Birendra Bajracharya, Chief of Party, SERVIR-HKH
Bertrand Bessagnet, Action Area Coordinator, Stimulating Action for Clean Air
Bhupesh Adhikary, Senior Air Quality Specialist, Stimulating Action for Clean Air
Arshini Saikia, Air Quality Modelling Analyst, Stimulating Action for Clean Air
Suman Sanjel, Air Quality Application Development Associate, Stimulating Action for Clean Air
NASA – Applied Science Team (AST)
Ashutosh Limaye, Chief Scientist, NASA-SERVIR
Aaron Naeger, Principal Investigator, Research Scientist at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
Jonathan Case, Co-Investigator, Research Meteorologist at ENSCO, Inc.
Kevin Fuell, Co-Investigator, University of Alabama Huntsville (UAH) Research Scientist / Transition/Training Specialist at NASA Short-term Prediction Research and Transition Center (SPoRT)
SERVIR – Science Coordination Office
Alqamah Sayeed, Air Quality Scientist, Universities Space Research Association (USRA)
Meryl Kruskopf, Research Associate II, The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Background
Air pollution is a significant threat to the environment and public health in the HKH region, exacerbated by robust emission sources and widespread pollutant transport. The Kathmandu Valley in Nepal faces particularly high levels of air pollution due to its geographical features, which trap pollutants, leading to adverse health effects. In addition, other major cities like Delhi, Dhaka, and Lahore in the HKH region also grapple with air pollution challenges driven by vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural burning. Traditional ground-based sensors are commonly used for air quality monitoring but often lack coverage, hindering the characterisation of pollutant gradients. Space-borne remote sensing from low Earth orbit (LEO) and geosynchronous equatorial orbit (GEO) satellites can provide high spatiotemporal information on trace gases and aerosols, improving air quality monitoring and forecasting capabilities and enabling better-informed decision-making. Integrating high-resolution satellite observations into model simulations enhances air quality forecasts, facilitating timely alerts for the public.
