The Aerosols and Atmospheric Composition Working Group is focussed on the inclusion of aerosols and the representation of the gaseous composition of the atmosphere in the UFS. This is important for several reasons, including:

  • Improving weather forecasts and climate predictions by taking into account trace gas effects on radiation
    as well as aerosol effects on radiation, clouds and precipitation;
  • Improving the handling of satellite observations by properly accounting for aerosol and trace gas effects
    during data assimilation;
  • Providing aerosol and trace gas (lateral and upper) boundary conditions for regional air quality
    predictions; and
  • Producing quality aerosol and trace gas information that addresses societal needs and stakeholder
    requirements, e.g., for air quality management, health applications, environmental policy making,
    climate science, and renewable energy planning.