UNFCCC reviews
The review of GHG inventories comprises three stages; each stage complements the previous one and ensures that the process provides a thorough and technical assessment of the inventory and its conformity with the UNFCCC and IPCC Guidelines. The third stage is individual reviews where international teams of sectoral inventory experts examine the data, methodologies and procedures used in preparing the national inventory. Justin Goodwin has for the last 5 years served on the UNFCCC’s roster of experts, supporting and leading expert teams in the review of greenhouse gas inventories.
Link to further information on the UNFCCC inventory review processhttp://unfccc.int/national_reports/annex_i_ghg_inventories/review_process/items/2762.php
LRTAP air quality inventory reviews
In 2009 and 2010, Aether provided both Lead reviewers to head up teams of experts reviewing the submissions of seven countries air quality inventories under the LRTAP Convention. The technical review process for air quality inventories follows a similar procedure as for greenhouse gas inventories in that there are three progressively more detailed stages of review. The reviews check and assess Parties' data submissions with a view to improving the quality of emissions data and associated information reported to the Convention.
Link to further information on the LRTAP review process
LULUCF Inventory Review
In 2009, Aether completed an independent review of the UK Land use, Land use change and forestry (LULUCF) inventory contract for the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC). This included assessing whether the procurement, management and use of science were appropriate, whether the quality of science commissioned was robust and whether it met DECC’s and wider stakeholder requirements. As a result of the review, it was possible to propose significant change and restructuring of the programme, to give improved focus and efficiency.
Defra air quality communications contract review
In 2010, Aether and Air Quality Consultants undertook a project for Defra to review the air quality communications contract. The purpose of the study was to review Defra's arrangements on the provision of air quality information to the public. In particular the review assessed how well the communications contract delivered information to stakeholders, how effective it is in terms of usability, functionality and meeting legislative requirements and whether there was best practice being used by other websites, which could be drawn upon.
A review of the NAEI and GHGI websites
The National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory websites provide a wealth of information relating to air pollution sources, the compilation of emission inventories, trends and projections. As the scope and structure of the websites have not been updated for many years, in 2011 Defra and DECC commissioned a review by Aether so that they could obtain robust recommendations on what role the websites should fill and how this could be delivered most effectively. The review made a number of recommendations, which will help to improve the usability and content of the websites.