HTAP3-OPNS: Ozone, PM, Nitrogen and Sulphur Deposition – multi-model experiments to support the revision of the CLRTAP Gothenburg Protocol

HTAP3-OPNS is a multi-model exercise designed to support the revision of the Gothenburg Protocol under the UNECE Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (CLRTAP). Using an ensemble of Chemical Transport Models (CTMs) and Chemistry-Climate Models (CCMs), this study investigates the long-range transport and impacts of ground-level ozone, particulate matter (PM), and nitrogen and sulphur deposition across different global regions. The project aims to assess the contributions of regional versus extra-regional emission sources, evaluate the suitability of current models, and project changes in air pollution under future emission scenarios and climate conditions. A series of perturbation simulations will enable the development of an ensemble emulator to explore and evaluate potential mitigation strategies efficiently. This paper outlines the scientific and policy questions motivating the study, describes the experimental design, including input datasets, model configurations, and required outputs, and discusses methodologies for data handling and analysis. The results will provide crucial insights for policy decisions aiming to improve air quality, protect human health, and protect ecosystems worldwide.