The Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) is a key initiative of the European Union’s Earth observation programme, delivering high-quality and reliable data on air pollution and health, solar energy, greenhouse gases, and climate forcing worldwide. These efforts are supported by a consortium of national entities, including the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), the CoLab +ATLANTIC, and the Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), from the University of Aveiro.
Managed by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) on behalf of the European Commission, CAMS integrates satellite and in-situ observations with advanced forecast models to provide valuable insights for businesses, policymakers, and researchers tackling atmospheric challenges.
Portugal actively leverages CAMS products to enhance air quality management at national and regional levels. The National CAMS Partnership (NCP) in Portugal focuses on integrating CAMS forecasts into the national air quality information system, QualAr, to improve data resolution and accessibility for authorities and stakeholders.
Key objectives of the Portugal NCP include:
- Integration of CAMS Products: Incorporating CAMS air quality forecasts into QualAr to enhance public and policymaker access to reliable data.
- Localised Air Quality Forecasting: Implementing high-resolution modelling to tailor forecasts to regional and urban conditions.
- Promoting Science-Based Decision-Making: Enhancing dialogue among policymakers, scientists, and local authorities to build robust, operational solutions that improve public health and environmental well-being.
High-resolution simulation domains for dynamic downscaling of regional air quality forecast — example of PM2.5 levels over mainland Portugal taken from https://atmosphere.copernicus.eu/portugal
As a key Portuguese partner in the CAMS initiative, CESAM is committed to bridging the gap between atmospheric science and practical applications for air quality management in Portugal. CESAM plays a central role in:
- Downscaling Air Quality Forecasts: Leading the dynamic downscaling of CAMS forecasts to provide high-resolution air quality predictions tailored to urban areas and pollution hotspots in Portugal.
- Facilitating Stakeholder Engagement: Developing educational materials to promote the use of CAMS products among public authorities.
- Strengthening National Collaboration: Working with its network of partners and associates to align national and local priorities with CAMS services.
Through its active involvement, CESAM is ensuring that CAMS products are not only scientifically rigorous but also operationally accessible, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for Portugal’s citizens.
For more information on CAMS and its impact in Portugal, visit its website.