A time‐averaged inventory of subaerial volcanic sulfur emissions

Abstract

A time‐averaged inventory of subaerial volcanic sulfur (S) emissions was compiled primarily for the use of global S and sulfate modelers. This inventory relies upon the 25‐year history of S, primarily sulfur dioxide (SO2), measurements at volcanoes. Subaerial volcanic SO2 emissions indicate a 13 Tg/a SO2 time‐averaged flux, based upon an early 1970s to 1997 time frame. When considering other S species present in volcanic emissions, a time‐averaged inventory of subaerial volcanic S fluxes is 10.4 Tg/a S. These time‐averaged fluxes are conservative minimum fluxes since they rely upon actual measurements. The temporal, spatial, and chemical inhomogeneities inherent to this system gave higher S fluxes in specific years. Despite its relatively small proportion in the atmospheric S cycle, the temporal and spatial distribution of volcanic S emissions provide disproportionate effects at local, regional, and global scales. This work contributes to the Global Emissions Inventory Activity.