Abstract
The growing problem of air pollution by fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from local sources, such as boiler houses or small industrial facilities, requires effective and accessible assessment tools. A significant gap exists between complex, resource-intensive dispersion models used in research and the practical needs of engineers, ecologists, and regulatory bodies who require instruments for rapid operational analysis. This problem is particularly acute in regions like Ukraine, where access to real-time, high-resolution environmental data is limited, and regulatory practices often rely on legacy methodologies. The paper describes the development and testing of a desktop software application with a graphical user interface (GUI) designed for scenario modelling (“what if” analysis) and quantitative assessment of air pollution levels from a local source. The core of the software tool is based on an adapted Gaussian plume analytical model, which calculates pollutant dispersion considering meteorological conditions and source parameters. The system integrates a developed method for integral impact assessment, categorising the pollution level based on calculated concentrations. The developed software allows the user to interactively input the constructive (stack height, diameter) and operational (emission rate) parameters of a pollution source, as well as current meteorological conditions. The system provides an instantaneous calculation of the expected PM2.5 concentration at a given point and classifies the impact: “Low”, “Moderate”, “High”, or “Very High”. The developed tool brings practical value, supporting the decision-making process. It provides a means for the operational monitoring of environmental impact and the preliminary planning of measures to reduce the ecological load from local pollution sources, making complex analysis accessible to a wider range of specialists, especially in data scarce environments.