Carbon dioxide variability in Gong Cave, Pacitan Regency, Indonesia

Abstract

Gong Cave is one of the karst caves in Pacitan Regency which is managed for show cave. This study aims to analyze the effect of tourist visit on the spatial variability of CO2 levels. CO2 measurement was conducted during low and peak season. Measurement was conducted in 23 sites starting from the entrance to the chamber along the tourist track. Spatial characteristics of CO2 in the cave was analyzed by the interpolation method. The result shows that the CO2 levels in the Gong cave higher in the cave inner chamber compared to the cave entrance, also the CO2 levels increasing after passing a narrow passage.