LOCAETA

Core Features

LOCAETA uses a modelling approach that combines observed air quality data, atmospheric dispersion models, statistical analysis and machine learning. It also incorporates population characteristics and established health impact assessment methods. Its principal capabilities include:

• Industrial Emissions and Air Quality Mapping: Combines industrial facility emissions inventories with satellite observations and ground-based air quality measurements. Users can examine pollutant concentrations and identify industrial sources affecting particular geographic areas.

• Atmospheric Dispersion Modelling: Uses physics-based atmospheric models, statistical methods and machine learning to estimate how pollutants disperse from industrial facilities and affect surrounding communities.

  Carbon Solutions

• Decarbonization Scenario Assessment: Evaluates potential changes in local air pollution associated with carbon capture and storage, industrial electrification, hydrogen fuel-switching and other interventions. Users can compare the air quality implications of different technology pathways.

• Public Health Impact Assessment: Estimates health consequences associated with changes in pollutant exposure, including premature mortality, respiratory symptoms and lost workdays. It also supports the economic valuation of health impacts using established assessment methods.

• Environmental Justice and Population Analysis: Integrates demographic information to identify communities disproportionately exposed to industrial pollution and assess how changes in emissions could affect vulnerable populations.

• Interactive Data Explorer and Reporting: Presents modelling results through an interactive, map-based interface. Carbon Solutions also provides customised local maps, technical reports and summary documents to support stakeholder engagement and decision-making.

Closing Insights

LOCAETA was developed by Carbon Solutions with financial support from the US Department of Energy's Small Business Innovation Research programme. The platform's first publicly accessible prototype focused on fine particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions from industrial facilities in Louisiana. Carbon Solutions subsequently expanded its work to include local assessments in other regions, including Denver, Colorado, where it examined air quality and health implications of industrial decarbonization.

For prospective users, LOCAETA offers a way to assess decarbonization beyond carbon emissions alone, incorporating local health outcomes into investment and policy decisions. Public access is available for its prototype, while customised projects require direct engagement with Carbon Solutions.