Assessing the impact of global carbon dioxide changes on atmospheric fluctuations in Iran through satellite data analysis

Abstract

Abstract This study aimed to examine how global CO2 changes affect atmospheric CO2 (XCO2) concentrations in Iran from 2015 to 2020. XCO2 data from the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2) satellite and CO2 surface flux data from the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service were analyzed. Monthly and annual XCO2 and surface flux values were compared. Over the 6 years, XCO2 in Iran increased steadily by 12.66 ppm, mirroring global rises. However, Iran's CO2 surface flux decreased, with slight increases in anthropogenic emissions but decreased natural and total fluxes. Monthly patterns of XCO2 and surface flux exhibited variations, with XCO2 reaching its zenith in spring and dipping to its lowest point during summer, while surface flux attained its peak during the summer months. The results reveal a significant discrepancy between Iran's surface CO2 flux and atmospheric XCO2 trends. While Iran's anthropogenic emissions increased barely from 2015–2020, its natural and total CO2 fluxes decreased. However, XCO2 increased steadily over this period, indicating the dominant impact of global rather than local factors on Iran's CO2 levels. The research emphasizes the critical need for a coordinated international effort, utilizing satellite monitoring data, to implement science-based policies that mitigate escalating global CO2 emissions. Curbing worldwide greenhouse gas.