A Web-Based Evaluation Framework for Supporting Effective Air Quality Improvement Policies

This study presents a web-based air quality evaluation framework that enables the analysis of changes in local emissions and the corresponding predicted impacts on public health. The framework includes emission models, air dispersion models, and a health impact analysis methodology based on the comprehensive air quality index suggested by the Ministry of Environment in South Korea. The primary feature of this framework is its flexibility and its ability to distinguish between macroscopic and microscopic standpoints, depending on the goal of the analysis. In general, emissions can be estimated from nationwide data provided by the National Clean Air Policy Support System or by integrated traffic simulation and emission models to calculate the amount of pollutants emitted from traffic. Air dispersion can be estimated by examining specific dispersion models in accordance with the goal of the analysis. In addition, public health impacts can be predicted in relation to emissions concentration using the air quality index. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed framework using a case study examining alternative traffic operational strategies. As a result, the framework can be used for scientific evaluation and analysis of urban traffic planning, traffic management policies, and public agencies' decision-making support for city center redevelopment.