Spatial–Temporal Distribution Characteristics and Correlation Analysis of Air Pollutants from Ships in Inland Ports

Abstract

The ship air pollution problem has become a global issue and poses a threat to the environment as well as the health of residents in the port area. This study used Automatic Identification System (AIS) data combined with a list of air pollutant emissions from ships. The total amount of air pollutant emissions was obtained. The spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of air pollutants on ships were analyzed, and the correlation of pollutant concentrations was studied on the three major ports. The three main intensive ports are Cuntan Port, Guoyuan Port, and Luoqi Port, and the Pearson correlation analysis is conducted based on the Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS). The results showed that: (1) The air pollutant emissions from ships in China Chongqing port region during September to December 2021 were mainly dominated by CO2 and NOX. (2) The air pollutant emissions from ships in the Yangtze River Basin were highest in October 2021 and lowest in December. (3) The correlation between PM2.5 and CO2 showed the largest in Cuntan Port and Luoqi Port, and the correlation between CO and CO2 is the largest in Guoyuan Port. It is suggested to establish deceleration zones and emission control zones in Cuntan Port and Guoyuan Port, and to use shore power for berthing in Luoqi Port. We also suggest improving fuel quality and combustion quality, post-treating ship exhaust emissions, increasing port shore power facilities to reduce ship air pollutant emissions, and providing a reference for environmental protection in inland ports.