The Forum for Air quality Modeling (FAIRMODE) was launched in 2007 as a joint response initiative of the European Environment Agency (EEA) and the European Commission Joint Research Centre (JRC). The forum is currently chaired by the Joint Research Centre.

Its aim is to bring together air quality modelers and users in order to promote and support the harmonized use of models by EU Member States, with emphasis on model application under the European Air Quality Directives.

The FAIRMODE network intends to support model users at all administrative levels (national, regional urban and local) in their policy-related model applications.

National experts are nominated by the Member States (MS) to participate in the FAIRMODE network. The network aims at establishing tools and mechanisms to enhance communication and promote good modeling practice among MS.

The network provides a framework for exchanging experience at all levels of application, including electronic interfaces, databases and tools as well as workshops, seminars and common projects/activities.

Meetings among members of the FAIRMODE network are organised on regular basis and are split between:

1 a yearly plenary meeting devoted to national, regional and local policy makers;

2 technical meetings dedicated to model experts to develop and agree on common methodologies, carry out actual benchmarking and establish good procedures and guidance.

Once at a good stage of development methodologies can then be promoted through meetings dedicated to training of model users (e.g. DELTA 4 tool workshop for assessment purposes).