CSIRO’s Atmospheric Composition and Chemistry (ACC) group brings together capability in the observation of trace gases, particulate matter and chemical processes of the atmosphere, and the transport and chemical modelling required to interpret these data. This is performed at global to regional and urban scales, and timescales from minutes to millennia. This provides critical scientific information and forecasts about key aspects of the global and Australia’s atmosphere, including both air quality and greenhouse gas emissions.

Urban and regional air pollution is a significant environmental threat. Industry, power generation and motor vehicles release pollutants that can lead to photochemical smog and haze, as well as contributing to increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Pollution threatens environmental sustainability and can have harmful effects on human health.