Environmental observation stations provide a critical function for monitoring regional atmospheric conditions. These stations are usually located in rural areas or sites with more environmental sensitivity because they should be clear from air pollution in the surrounding region. On the other hand, accessibility for researchers and workers who regularly maintain the equipment is another criterion for site location. This research is a primary study to set up a mechanism for selecting sites for observation stations and provide evaluation criteria and framework for future observation stations built in Taiwan. The objectives for this project include the following: 1) planning and assessing the multiple functions of environmental observation stations; 2) assisting the Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) in Taiwan to select three suitable sites for environmental observation stations in northern, central, and southern Taiwan, respectively; and 3) generating a set of design principles for environmental observation stations. Since site locations for observation stations are predominately close to environmentally sensitive areas, this project introduces an environmentally sustainable design approach to reduce the impact caused by constructing observation stations.

Atmospheric Background Station, Site Selection, Multi-functional Objectives, Green Building, Sustainable Design