Air Pollutant Emissions Research Articles

Impact of the national economy and air pollutant emissions on Chinese energy mix: Evidence from an SBMDEA-TOPSIS model

Impact of the national economy and air pollutant emissions on Chinese energy mix: Evidence from an SBMDEA-TOPSIS model

Analysis of the government environmental attention on tackling air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions through a spatial econometric approach

Analysis of the government environmental attention on tackling air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions through a spatial econometric approach

Heterogeneous variations on historical of mercury, dioxins, and CO2 emissions from medical waste incineration process in China: Emission inventory, driving factors, and the impact of COVID-19.

Heterogeneous variations on historical of mercury, dioxins, and CO2 emissions from medical waste incineration process in China: Emission inventory, driving factors, and the impact of COVID-19.

Effect of operating conditions and technology on residential wood stove emissions of criteria, greenhouse gas, and hazardous air pollutants

ABSTRACT Residential wood heating (RWH) is a known source of particulate matter (PM), hazardous air pollutants (HAPs), and greenhouse gases (GHGs). However, the influence of operating conditions on emissions from certified cordwood stoves in the United States (U.S.) remains poorly understood. This study analyzes emissions data from different operational phases, including start-up, high heat, and low heat, to improve indicators of real-world stove performance. We tested five commercially available U.S. stoves through the four distinct operational conditions or phases of the novel Integrated Duty Cycle (IDC) testing protocol, which simulates typical residential wood-burning patterns by incorporating start-up, high heat, medium (or “maintain”) heat, and low heat (“overnight” burn) phases. We determined emissions factors (EFs) by IDC phase for criteria, GHG, and HAP compounds, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). We also developed a multiple linear regression model to assess the effect of dry burn rate (DBR) and IDC phase on each pollutant EF by stove technology type. IDC phase significantly influenced (p < 0.01) pollutant EFs from uncertified stoves and most emissions from catalytic/hybrid stoves, while DBR played a more substantial role in emissions from non-catalytic stoves. Current stove certification methods rely on a single nominal load under steady-state combustion, which does not reflect typical residential use. Additionally, we found DBR to be an inconsistent predictor of emissions in cordwood stoves. These findings underscore the importance of stove technology and operating conditions in determining RWH emissions, with implications for air quality science and regulatory policy. Implications: We report cordwood stove emissions factors by operating condition using the novel Integrated Duty Cycle (IDC) protocol on various U.S. technologies meeting 2020 New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) and one pre-NSPS, circa 1980 stove. We determined significant effects from IDC operating phase on uncertified and catalytic/hybrid stove emissions, but not noncatalytic stoves. This has important implications for use of emissions factors in air quality science, policy, and stove design, as different U.S. climate zones will influence the number of stove start-ups, fuel loading patterns, and frequencies of other “real world” operating conditions such as “high heat” and “overnight burn.”

Air Pollution/Quality Trends in the Pandemic of the 21st Century: Approaches in Türkiye

COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2020. The pandemic of the 21st century has attracted attention as an important issue, and studies have been carried out in many areas in terms of the related issue. One of these areas is air pollution/quality, which received wide coverage in the media and where positive developments became visible with restrictions. In studies conducted on a national basis regarding COVID-19 pandemic and air pollution/quality, it has been determined that the selected cities have at least one specific feature. These features include population density, excess industrial activities, excess vehicle or transportation network connections, mining activities, and energy recovery. As a result of the study, a decrease was observed in outdoor air pollution emissions, especially during the restrictions, and it was determined that there were improvements in terms of general air quality in Türkiye. While there have been previous studies on the interaction between pandemics and air pollution, this study distinguishes itself by providing a comprehensive and detailed analysis within the context of Türkiye. Unlike earlier works, this research evaluates Türkiye in a broader framework, offering a holistic perspective on the topic. It not only summarizes and interprets findings but also provides actionable recommendations for future pandemic periods and sustainable urban development. This study highlights the situation before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in terms of air pollution, sheds light on future scenarios, and offers policymakers and decision-makers practical proposals applicable to regions worldwide. In the event of future pandemics or efforts to promote healthy and sustainable living, the insights and assessments presented in this study can serve as a valuable reference. Furthermore, it provides actionable strategies for reducing urban air pollution, making it relevant for different countries and cities globally.

The Application of an Empirical Method for the Estimation of Vehicles’ Contribution to Air Pollution in an Urban Environment: A Case Study in Athens, Greece

This research focuses on monitoring and analyzing air pollutant emissions, mainly from passenger vehicles, at a busy urban intersection with 19 traffic lanes at the junction of Thivon Avenue and Iera Odos, located in the Egaleo municipality, an urban region of Athens, Greece. To collect data, a monitoring study was conducted specifically on the four central traffic streams of this specific intersection. On each segment of the road, a specific length was assigned through which vehicles pass at an average speed in order for their emissions to be estimated. For each vehicle, the engine type (gas or diesel) and engine displacement were taken into account to calculate the predicted mass of vehicle emissions. These measurements were conducted separately for each segment and recorded during three signal phases (from green to red) for two weekdays and one non-working day. This approach allows pollutant levels to be monitored at various hours and under various traffic conditions. The analysis revealed not only the overall quantity of emissions from vehicles but also their fluctuations throughout the day and traffic conditions, comparing them with the regulatory limits set by the EU. Significant findings regarding the impact of traffic on air quality are highlighted.

Assessing the climate and health impacts of energy consumption in European Union countries

Abstract Greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels are routinely counted in energy and climate policies, yet the immediate health burden of air pollution emissions from combusting these fuels is rarely quantified alongside. Particularly, the European Union (EU) comprises countries with diverse energy mixes, emission characteristics, reduction technologies, and policy frameworks, leading to large variations in the impacts of energy consumption on climate, air quality, and public health. Understanding these country-level variations is critical to optimize regional energy policies and reduce climate and health disparities in the EU. This study quantifies the regional variations in both climate and health impacts of energy consumption across EU countries. In countries where coal or oil dominates power supply, the health impacts of electricity consumption can be larger than climate impacts by more than ten times (e.g., Bulgaria, Romania, and Greece), highlighting the necessity of incorporating health impacts into climate and energy policies. We found a significant variability in health impacts per electricity usage (1.4-1508 €/MWh) among EU countries, largely driven by their energy source mix. The health benefits of sustainable energy strategies can be notably higher in Eastern Europe countries than those in Western or Northern Europe. For instance, saving the same amount of electricity in Estonia could achieve health benefits 1043 times greater than in Sweden. Furthermore, our results suggest that energy policies and reports with biomass lumped into renewables can overlook its potential health burden. The dataset of climate and health impact factors produced in this study can be useful for future research, practice, and policymaking to quantify the burdens of energy consumption or assess the benefits of energy efficiency measures in the EU.&amp;#xD;

Enhancing the Synergistic Pathways of Industrial Pollution and Carbon Reduction (PCR) in China: An Energy Efficiency Perspective

Industry is a major contributor to air pollution and CO2 emissions, and a major force for reducing them. Based on the idea of improving the performance of the synergy effect “1 + 1 &gt; 2”, this paper constructs a method that evaluates the synergistic effect of pollution and carbon reduction (PCR) in terms of energy efficiency under the framework of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and analyzes the basic path of China’s synergistic effect of PCR from the viewpoint of energy efficiency. Based on the construction of a global non-radial directional distance function, we develop an emission performance measurement index for output factors. Furthermore, by comparing performance changes under individual and collaborative emission reduction scenarios, we establish an evaluation model for assessing the synergistic effects of PCR. The results show the following: (1) Collaboration between PCR enhances both the air pollution emission performance and carbon dioxide emission performance in China. (2) The synergistic effect of collaborative emission reduction is universal in different regions and provinces. However, the synergistic effect of PCR found in the east, central, and west has strong heterogeneity. (3) Different improvement pathways, such as prioritizing energy conservation or carbon mitigation, were designed to account for regional development disparities. Although these policy orientations can effectively enhance the synergy between pollution control and carbon mitigation, the extent of improvement varies considerably across regions.

Case Study Analysis on the Impact of CNPC Environmental Research Reports Utilizing the 3D-IDPT Model of Information Retrieval Management (IRM)

This case study applies the 3D-IDPT model from Information Resource Management (IRM) to analyze the impact of China National Petroleum Corporation's (CNPC) environmental reports and strategic responses. Focusing on two critical issues—air pollution (notably VOCs) and carbon emissions—the study explores CNPC's environmental governance through the three-dimensional framework of space, time, and construction. It reveals how CNPC's environmental behaviors are shaped by individual and collective actors, instant and synchronic timelines, and the evolving construction of environmental information under technological, value-driven, and societal demand pressures. Drawing from regulatory cases, media reports, and internal sustainability strategies, the research shows that CNPC is transitioning from reactive governance to a more proactive environmental planning model. While facing persistent challenges such as opacity and high governance costs, CNPC demonstrates growing capabilities in green transformation via carbon capture (CCUS), ecological compensation, and clean energy development. This study contributes to the understanding of how state-owned enterprises engage in sustainable transformation through dynamic information practices.

Tracking air pollution and CO2 emissions in 13,189 urban areas worldwide using large geospatial datasets

Air pollution and climate change are urgent global concerns, with urban areas contributing heavily to both air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. Here we calculate fine particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone concentrations and fossil-fuel carbon dioxide emissions per capita in 13,189 urban areas worldwide from 2005 to 2019 and analyze correlations between trends for these pollutants, leveraging recently-developed global datasets. Globally, we found significant increases in ozone (+6%) and small, non-significant changes in fine particulate matter (+0%), nitrogen dioxide (−1%), and fossil-fuel carbon dioxide emissions (+4%). Also, over 50% of urban areas showed positive correlations for all pollutant pairs, though results varied by global region. High-income countries with strong mitigation policies experienced decreases in all pollutants, while regions with rapid economic growth had overall increases. This study shows the impacts of urban environmental initiatives in different regions and provides insights for reducing air pollution and carbon dioxide emissions simultaneously.

Spatial distribution and classification of objectified capital in the Gerês-Xurés Transboundary Biosphere Reserve

Despite its ecological significance and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, the Gerês-Xurés Transboundary Biosphere Reserve (GX), spanning the border region between northern Portugal and southern Galicia (Spain), faces increasing socio-environmental challenges. However, existing research rarely addresses the interdependences of the social and physical spaces in peripheral regions of protected natural areas. Drawing on Pierre Bourdieu's concept of social space, this study analyses the spatial distribution and classification of objectified capital footprints in the GX region. The analysis is based on the most recent available data on road networks, nocturnal luminosity, building density, and carbon monoxide emissions (2022–2024), including a longitudinal series for nocturnal radiance (2014–2024). By spatially mapping these variables and integrating spatial quantitative methodologies with ethnographic fieldwork, the study identifies distinct spatial clusters characterized by varying degrees of connectivity, industrialization, and urbanization. The results underscore significant socio-environmental asymmetries and highlight the value of integrating sociological and spatial analyses to link air pollution emissions in physical spaces with competitive dynamics in social spaces. Although currently situated on the periphery of major capital-intensive zones, the GX region is increasingly impacted by tourism-related pressures in some areas, emphasizing the need to reinforce established policy responses.

Advancing synergistic strategies for greenhouse gas and atmospheric pollutant emission reduction in urban transportation: a whole lifecycle perspective

In light of the interrelated origins and processes of greenhouse gas (GHG) and atmospheric pollutant emissions, countries around the world are actively seeking synergistic strategies for their reduction. Urban transportation represents a critical sector for GHG and air pollutant emissions; however, the effectiveness of existing collaborative measures has proven inadequate. This ineffectiveness primarily stems from a focus on terminal emission reductions, neglecting potential pollutant emissions that arise during implementation. To address this gap, this paper develops seven scenarios for coordinated emission reductions in urban transportation and employs econometric methods to quantitatively assess the effectiveness of these strategies throughout their entire lifecycle. Furthermore, the evaluation integrates key indicators, such as synergistic emission reduction, a coordinated control system, and cross-elasticity, to provide a comprehensive analysis of the proposed measures. This paper uses Shenyang, China, as a case study, revealing that enhancing fuel quality emerges as the most critical strategy for synergistic emission reduction. Although the comprehensive synergistic emission reductions associated with rail transit and low-carbon travel are not the highest, they demonstrate a significant linkage effect. Although the promotion of new energy vehicles (NEVs) offers substantial terminal emission reductions, their energy generation processes and consumption during charging classify them as non-synergistic measures. This study addresses the prevalent issue of overemphasizing terminal governance, providing valuable insights for policymakers in the urban transportation sector. It facilitates a deeper understanding of the synergistic control characteristics of various measures, enabling the identification of effective strategies and the exploration of their interconnections.

The Concentration of Fine Particulate Matter from Antique Handmade Brick Kilns in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Air quality assessment in particulate matter with a size of less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) is essential because it affects urban residential health. Hence, this research studied the analysis of PM2.5 value from antique Mon handmade stove house usage in Chiang Mai, using the AERMOD air quality dispersion model. The data for the modeling was collected from a survey regarding the amounts of production and fuel, and the location of the brick kilns used to calculate the amount of air pollution emissions. The summarized values were the emission factor, the climate data as the surface meteorological data, the upper-air meteorological data obtained from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and national geographic data. The Albedo and Bowen ratios and the surface roughness values were identified using satellite data and then presented in a map of the dust intensity distribution. The results found that the highest value of PM2.5 concentration at the smoke point was 209.19 μg/m3, while the average values were 48.21 μg/m3. The PM2.5 concentration at the stack pointer was higher than the standard scores of Thai and World Health Organization (WHO) general atmospheric air quality standards. However emissions varied, and average PM2.5 concentrations exceeded WHO standards and, in the case of full operation, exceeded Thai standards, posing health risks.

Synergetic mitigation of air pollution and carbon emissions of coal-based energy: A review and recommendations for technology assessment, scenario analysis, and pathway planning

Synergetic mitigation of air pollution and carbon emissions of coal-based energy: A review and recommendations for technology assessment, scenario analysis, and pathway planning

A Proxy Model for Traffic Related Air Pollution Indicators Based on Traffic Count

Understanding how traffic contributes to air pollution, especially in urban areas, is essential for designing effective strategies to reduce air pollution emissions. This study examines the hourly association between traffic volume and concentrations of two air pollution indicators (NO2 and PM10) using high-resolution data from two monitoring stations in Helsinki. A Prophet time series model was applied to forecast hourly traffic trends for 2024, which were then compared to yearly average NO2 and PM10 concentrations. Polynomial regression and cross-correlation analyses were used to capture temporal patterns and assess the strength and timing of the relationship. The results show a strong alignment between traffic and NO2 and PM10 concentrations, particularly at the traffic-heavy measuring site (Mäkelänkatu supersite), with minimal time lag observed. Root mean square error (RMSE) and polynomial fit comparisons confirmed the predictive value of traffic trends in estimating the behavior of NO2 and PM10 concentrations. These findings support the use of traffic-based proxy models as practical tools for real-time air pollution assessment and for informing targeted urban air quality interventions.

Multi-scale comparison of modeling chains for traffic-related air pollutant emission assessment

Multi-scale comparison of modeling chains for traffic-related air pollutant emission assessment

Comprehensive assessment of air pollutant emissions, climate scenario projections, and mitigation strategies in Iran

Comprehensive assessment of air pollutant emissions, climate scenario projections, and mitigation strategies in Iran

Sintering flue gas circulation optimization under the combined benefits of carbon dioxide and air pollutant emission reduction

Sintering flue gas circulation optimization under the combined benefits of carbon dioxide and air pollutant emission reduction

Air pollution, lifestyle, and cardiovascular disease risk in northwestern China: A cohort study of over 5.8 million participants.

Air pollution, lifestyle, and cardiovascular disease risk in northwestern China: A cohort study of over 5.8 million participants.

Analysis of Air Pollution Emission and Asthma Hotspots Considering Spatiotemporal Characteristics

It is necessary to propose a method to identify the regional distribution characteristics of air pollution and its health impacts as an important capacity to achieve an inclusive and sustainable community by considering the environment and health in a balanced manner. In this study, hotspot areas were identified by considering the spatial and spatiotemporal characteristics of air pollutant emissions and asthma in 250 cities over a period of 5 years (2015-2019). In the search for spatial hotspot areas of air pollutant emissions and asthma prevalence using Hotspot Analysis Comparison, some cities in South Chungcheong Province were found to be hotspot areas where air pollutant emissions and asthma prevalence were clustered together and showed high spatial values for five years. The SaTScan search for hotspot areas considering spatiotemporal characteristics indicated that the Chungnam region included in Cluster 1 had the highest asthma relative risk ratio (2.64) in the top 25% of air pollutant emissions compared with the bottom 25%, which was statistically significant. Although the national averages of air pollutant emissions and asthma prevalence rates are decreasing, some regions have emerged as hotspots where air pollutant emissions and asthma prevalence rates are consistently higher than those in other regions. Identifying and managing hotspot areas by considering environmental hazards and health-impact factors is one way to efficiently utilize limited resources and manpower. Additionally, the results of this study can be used as scientific evidence in areas where regional environmental health monitoring and intensive management are required.