EDAR MIDDLE EAST
United Arab Emirates / Abu Dhabi Introduces EDAR to the Middle East
The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) developed a vehicle monitoring initiative to identify and measure harmful pollutants as part of the Integrated Air Quality Management Program to determine a baseline for future policies and regulations, identify the main emitting vehicle classes and technologies, and help support the design of effective mitigation processes.
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The final study will also establish the input data for air quality modeling and develop local air and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission factors while enhancing academic research and innovation projects.
“Our partners are providing their full support to this exciting new project, which is a first in the region. We are using the most advanced technology for the remote sensing of vehicle emissions in real-time and the large amount of data we will be gathering will be extremely beneficial to us as a scientific body dedicated to research, as well as to our partners specifically."
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– Eng. Faisal Al Hammadi, Acting Executive Director of
EAD’s Environment Quality Sector
Laser-Based Technology
Using its patented NASA Spinoff remote-sensing system, EDAR detected and quantified on-road emissions measurements with laser-based overhead detectors in real-time. For the first time ever in the UAE, this revolutionary technology was used to process collected data and work with relevant authorities to match remote sensing information with the emirate’s vehicle registration databases.
Real Driving Emissions
Over the course of two weeks, using EDAR's non-intrusive technology, HEAT and EAD engaged in monitoring transport emissions to accurately detect and quantify various gases being emitted from the tailpipes of moving vehicles in real-time. In addition, the technology identified the vehicles' license plate number, which was used only to acquire technical information about the vehicle such as brand, model, fuel type, emission standard and vehicle weight. No personal data was used during the study.
“We know that the transport sector contributes
to pollutants in the air and we want to be
scientifically certain that we have the latest research
at hand to be able to make correct and
well-informed decisions.”
– Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD
EDAR deployed in various locations around the emirate (Image Credits: left – Khaleej Times; center – Muhammed Al-Sammani, Al Khaleej; right – HEAT)
“This joint venture is paramount in setting up
Abu Dhabi for even greater environmental success.
We must see the bigger picture and work toward sustainability – with the public and private sectors joining forces to improve air quality through reduced harmful vehicle emissions.”
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– Yolla Hager, President of HEAT