Ozone Depletion Research Articles

Viscosity and Phase State of Wildfire Smoke Particles in the Stratosphere from Pyrocumulonimbus Events: An Initial Assessment.

Understanding the viscosity and phase state of biomass-burning organic aerosol (BBOA) from wildfires and pyrocumulonimbus (pyroCb) events in the stratosphere is critical for predicting their role in stratospheric multiphase chemistry and ozone depletion. However, the viscosity and phase state of BBOA under stratospheric conditions, including interactions with sulfuric acid (H2SO4), remain largely unquantified. In this study, we combine laboratory data with a thermodynamic model to predict the viscosity and phase state of BBOA under stratospheric conditions. Our results suggest that BBOA with a H2SO4-to-BBOA mass ratio of 0.37─an estimated upper limit for pyroCb smoke in the lower stratosphere after two months of aging─is highly viscous and frequently exists in a glassy state. Even at a higher H2SO4-to-BBOA mass ratio of 0.79─an estimated upper limit after nine months of aging─BBOA can still transition to a glassy state under certain stratospheric conditions. In the glassy state, bulk reactions are suppressed, and multiphase chemistry may be limited to the particle surfaces. We also highlight key areas for future research needed to better constrain the viscosity and phase state of BBOA in the stratosphere and its subsequent impact on ozone.

Viability of R-290 Refrigerant as Residential AC Retrofit: Effect of Charge Mass Variations

The growing concerns over ozone depletion and global warming caused by refrigerants have led to the search for environmentally friendly alternatives. This study evaluates the impact of varying R-290 refrigerant charge masses on the performance of a wall-mounted residential air conditioner using the drop-in substitute method. A ¾ HP residential AC unit originally charged with 550 grams of R-22 refrigerant was retrofitted with R-290 and tested at charge masses of 140 grams, 165 grams, and 190 grams—approximately 25%, 30%, and 35% of the original R-22 charge, in accordance with the commonly applied “one-third rule.” The results showed that retrofitting with R-290 increased the Refrigeration Effect (RE) by up to 75%, Compression Work (Wc) by 68%, and Coefficient of Performance (COP) by up to 18%. The system with a 25% refrigerant charge was unable to reach the set temperature due to a 23% reduction in cooling capacity, while the 30% charge showed a 10% reduction. The 35% refrigerant mass retrofit proved the most suitable, achieving adequate cooling capacity, an 18% increase in COP, and a 14% reduction in power consumption. Additionally, the retrofit resulted in an indirect CO₂ emission reduction of 1.15 metric tons annually, highlighting the environmental and energy-saving advantages of using R-290. These findings provide empirical validation of the one-third rule for refrigerant mass variation in R-290 retrofits and offer valuable insights into optimizing performance and efficiency in residential AC units, with significant energy and environmental benefits.

Simultaneous Capture of N2O and CO2 from a N2O/N2/CO2/O2 Mixture with a Ni(II)-Pyrazolecarboxylate Framework.

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a potent greenhouse gas and a major contributor to ozone depletion. Its primary industrial emission source is tail gas from adipic acid production, which typically comprises a mixture of N2O, CO2, N2, and O2. Current technologies for the removal of N2O and CO2 from tail gas are energy-intensive and operationally complex. Herein, for the first time, simultaneous capture of N2O and CO2 from the quaternary mixture is achieved using a Ni(II)-pyrazolecarboxylate framework, BUT-167. This material demonstrated an exceptional adsorption capacity (135.8 cm3 cm-3 at 40 kPa) and a high packing density (790 mg cm-3) for N2O, outperforming reported sorbents. Moreover, BUT-167 also exhibits a remarkable CO2 adsorption capacity (101.5 cm3 cm-3 at 4 kPa), achieving simultaneously high selectivity values of 257.6 for CO2/N2 (4:96, v/v) and 135.7 for N2O/N2 (40/60). Importantly, BUT-167 exhibits robust and outstanding dual-gas removal performance across multiple adsorption-desorption breakthrough cycles under both dry and humid conditions. The strong affinity toward CO2 and N2O could be attributed to multiple hydrogen bonding interactions facilitated by its highly confined channel structure, as confirmed through single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis.

Scaling up Seaweed Production for Enteric Methane Reduction: A Systematic Literature Review on Environmental and Ozone Impacts in the Case of Asparagopsis Macroalgae

Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, has a global warming potential over 84 times greater than carbon dioxide over its relevant lifespan. Current atmospheric methane concentrations are at a record high, significantly contributing to near-term climate warming. Agriculture, particularly livestock, is a major methane emitter, accounting for 40% of global total emissions, with enteric fermentation in ruminants accounting for 90% of agricultural methane emissions. The recent interest in mitigating these emissions has centered on seaweeds, such as Asparagopsis taxiformis, which contain bromoform, a bioactive compound shown to significantly reduce enteric methane production. However, bromoform raises environmental concerns including its potential carcinogenicity and ozone-depletion effects. This study systematically reviews the environmental and ozone-related impacts of scaling up seaweed production for enteric methane reduction in livestock. Key challenges include sustainability, biodiversity risks, and upstream emissions possibly offsetting the methane reduction gains. Animal health concerns, such as reduced weight gain and mucosal irritation, also warrant attention. Additionally, supply chain logistics, cultivation and harvesting practices, and bromoform retention remain underdeveloped. The limited assessment of the ozone depletion potential underscores the need for further research. These findings highlight the need for techno-feasibility and life cycle assessment before scaling up seaweed-based solutions. A broader approach to methane mitigation, beyond feed additives, is essential to ensure sustainable outcomes for livestock agriculture.

Synergistic Effects of UVB and Ionizing Radiation on Human Non-Malignant Cells: Implications for Ozone Depletion and Secondary Cosmic Radiation Exposure.

The ozone layer in the Earth's atmosphere filters solar radiation and limits the unwanted effects on humans. A depletion of this ozone shield would permit hazardous levels of UV solar radiation, especially in the UVB range, to bombard Earth's surface, resulting in potentially significant effects on human health. The concern for these adverse effects intensifies if we consider that the UVB solar radiation is combined with secondary cosmic radiation (SCR) components, such as protons and muons, as well as terrestrial gamma rays. This research aims to delve into the intricate interplay between cosmic and solar radiation on earth at the cellular level, focusing on their synergistic effects on human cell biology. Through a multidisciplinary approach integrating radiobiology and physics, we aim to explore key aspects of biological responses, including cell viability, DNA damage, stress gene expression, and finally, genomic instability. To assess the impact of the combined exposure, normal i.e., non-malignant human cells (skin fibroblasts, keratinocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes) were exposed to high-energy protons or gamma rays in combination with UVB. Cellular molecular and cytogenetic biomarkers of radiation exposure, such as DNA damage (γH2AΧ histone protein and dicentric chromosomes), as well as the expression pattern of various stress genes, were analyzed. In parallel, the MTS reduction and lactate dehydrogenase assays were used as indicators of cell viability, proliferation, and cytotoxicity. Results reveal remaining DNA damage for the co-exposed samples compared to samples exposed to only one type of radiation in all types of cells, accompanied by increased genomic instability and distinct stress gene expression patterns detected at 24-48 h post-exposure. Understanding the impact of combined radiation exposures is crucial for assessing the health risks posed to humans if the ozone layer is partially depleted, with structural and functional damages inflicted by combined cosmic and UVB exposure.

A Comparative Whole-Building Life Cycle Assessment of the Four Framing Systems of the Bakers Place Building Using the Tally LCA Tool

The urgent need for climate change mitigation has increased the focus on reducing embodied carbon and energy, particularly in the construction sector. Utilizing sustainably sourced mass timber products provides a low-carbon alternative to traditional concrete and steel structural systems in buildings. These carbon impacts can be quantified by evaluating the total environmental impact of a building, from material extraction and product manufacturing to construction, operation, and demolition. This study evaluated the environmental impacts of a 14-storey mass timber–steel hybrid building in Madison, USA, through a Whole-Building Life Cycle Assessment (WBLCA) using the Tally LCA tool integrated with Autodesk Revit. The hybrid design was compared to full mass timber, full steel, and post-tensioned concrete structures, which are common structural systems for high-rise buildings, enabling meaningful comparisons of their environmental performance. The results showed that the full mass timber design had the lowest global warming potential (GWP), reducing emissions by 16% compared to the concrete structure. The hybrid design achieved a 14% reduction, with both timber-based systems demonstrating about 30% lower non-renewable energy use. In addition, they provided significant biogenic carbon storage during the building’s lifespan. However, the mass timber and hybrid systems showed higher impacts in categories such as acidification, eutrophication, ozone depletion, and smog formation.

Climate Intervention Techniques: Pros and Cons

Climate intervention (CI) techniques are strategies proposed to deliberately modify the Earth’s climate system to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. In the growing concern about global warming, these techniques are emerging as potential complements to traditional mitigation and adaptation measures. This study aims to review the main CI techniques, such as the injection of stratospheric aerosols, brightening of marine clouds, and the carbon dioxide (CO₂) removal. The methodology adopted employs a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art and reference works on the subject, assessing the effectiveness, risks, and challenges associated with each technique. The results show that the injection of stratospheric aerosols can reduce global temperature by increasing the Earth’s albedo but can yield adverse effects such as changes in precipitation regimes, stratospheric ozone depletion, impacts on the radiative balance, and ocean acidification. On the other hand, CO₂ removal techniques are seen as potential solutions for decarbonization, although they face challenges related to cost and efficiency on a large scale. It is concluded that, despite the viability of CI techniques, their long-term impacts present significant uncertainties. It also highlights the need for a global governance structure to avoid unilateral actions that could bring disproportionate risks, especially for more vulnerable countries such as the Global South. Further interdisciplinary studies are therefore recommended to ensure that these technologies are applied safely and fairly.

UVB radiation and amphibian resilience: Analyzing skin color, immune suppression and oxidative stress in Rana kukunoris from different elevations.

UVB radiation and amphibian resilience: Analyzing skin color, immune suppression and oxidative stress in Rana kukunoris from different elevations.

Environmental impact, economic and carbon footprint assessment of end-of-life PVC flex banners and its potential upcycling opportunities in the fashion industry.

This article employs life cycle assessment (LCA) using openLCA software to compare the environmental and economic indicators of upcycled fashion accessories made from end-of-life polyvinyl chloride (PVC) flex banners with those made from conventional materials like nylon and polyester. Six bags were designed, produced from end-of-life PVC flex banners, and compared to nylon and polyester fabric bags. Data related to the manufacturing process of these bags, including material usage, transport, and production, were analysed for comparison. The LCA results revealed that upcycled bags made from end-of-life PVC flex banners are more environmentally friendly than their nylon and polyester counterparts. Out of the 16 environmental impact categories analysed in the study, U-PVC bags were shown to have a lower impact in 12 categories: 1) fossil depletion, 2) freshwater ecotoxicity, 3) freshwater eutrophication, 4) marine ecotoxicity, 5) marine eutrophication, 6) ozone depletion, 7) particulate matter formation, 8) photochemical oxidant formation, 9) terrestrial acidification, 10) terrestrial ecotoxicity, 11) urban land occupation, and 12) water depletion. Moreover, the carbon footprint of U-PVC bags was 574.89kg CO2 eq, which is lower than the carbon footprints of C-PA bags at 612.56kg CO2 eq and C-PES bags at 609.76kg CO2 eq. Additionally, the average manufacturing cost of U-PVC bags was £49.86, compared to £66.80 for C-PA bags and £67.09 for C-PES bags. This indicates that U-PVC bags are not only more environmentally sustainable but also more economical compared to C-PA and C-PES bags. Our research highlights the potential to upcycle end-of-life PVC flex banners into shoulder backpack bags, demonstrating the viability of PVC upcycling to reduce environmental impact.

Transient and Seasonal Response of Southern Ocean Sea Surface Temperature and Antarctic Sea Ice to Stratospheric Ozone Recovery

Abstract This study investigates the response of the Southern Ocean sea surface temperature (SST) and Antarctic sea ice to stratospheric ozone recovery, focusing on the time scale and seasonality of the response. The response is quantified by contrasting two twenty-first-century ensemble simulations conducted with the Goddard Earth Observing System Chemistry–Climate Model: one with decreasing ozone-depleting substances (ODSs) and the other with fixed 2005 levels of ODSs. In our simulations, the response to ozone recovery has large seasonal variations, but it does not show a two-time-scale behavior. Ozone recovery causes Southern Ocean SST warming in austral summer and cooling in other seasons. Ozone recovery mitigates Antarctic sea ice decrease in the twenty-first century in austral spring, fall, and winter. However, the summer Antarctic sea ice extent is not affected by ozone recovery despite strong surface warming, because the warming occurs north of the sea ice edge. The absence of summer sea ice response likely results from the model bias of underestimating summer sea ice climatology. The summer surface warming response is associated with cooling directly below the mixed layer. Temperature tendency budget analysis shows that reduced vertical mixing plays a critical role in driving this vertical dipole temperature response. We also find that the impact of the vertical temperature advection on SST depends not only on changes in upwelling but also on changes in vertical temperature gradient. Significance Statement We study the climate impact of the projected stratospheric ozone recovery in the twenty-first century on Southern Ocean sea surface temperature and Antarctic sea ice using coupled atmosphere–ocean–chemistry model simulations. The model results show that ozone recovery causes weakening of surface winds over the Southern Ocean, which leads to warming of the Southern Ocean surface in summer and cooling in other seasons. Ozone recovery also reduces Antarctic sea ice loss in the twenty-first century. We quantify the relative importance of meridional and vertical advection and vertical mixing in determining the upper Southern Ocean temperature response to stratospheric ozone recovery. These results improve our understanding of how changes in surface winds affect the Southern Ocean temperature, circulation, and Antarctic sea ice.

Effect of using phase change material (PCM) magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) solution as heat storage in solar powered thermoelectric cooler box

Utilization of new, renewable energy sources is very important for society as a way to switch from fossil fuels. Solar energy is a type of renewable energy that is very promising for various applications. Traditional cooling systems contribute to the depletion of the ozone layer, requiring alternatives such as using thermoelectric solar energy (TEC) for cooling. In addition, PCM used, such as 25%, 30%, and 35% MgSO₄ solutions, can absorb latent heat during the cooling process, thereby increasing efficiency. This research aims to increase coefficient of performance (CoP) of cooling boxes by integrating solar energy and PCM. Data collection was carried out from 09.30 to 14.40, by measuring light intensity, voltage and current, solar panel temperature, environmental temperature, cooler box wall temperature and TEC temperature. Over three days of data collection, this study determined the minimum temperature and CoP for the cooler. The findings show that the minimum temperature in the cooler without PCM is 16.8℃. Coolers with PCM MgSO₄, 25%, 30%, and 35% the minimum temperatures are 16.7℃, 12.7℃, and 14.7℃. Regarding the average COP, the cooling box without PCM reached 0.0345, while the box with 25%, 30%, and 35% PCM MgSO₄ had a CoP of 0.0354, 0.0469, and 0.0402, respectively. The study concluded that 30% MgSO₄ PCM solution is most suitable for use as PCM, because it affects the minimum temperature and COP of the cooling system. This effectiveness is due to the concentration of MgSO₄ lowering the freezing point of the solution, thereby increasing the cooling performance.

Analysis of Nitrogen Oxide Emissions Generated by the F100-PW-229 Turbine Aircraft Engine, Performed Using the GasTurb Software

The article discusses various aspects related to determining the composition of exhaust gases (i.e. nitrogen oxides) generated by a turbine aircraft engine. The paper highlights the problem of ozone depletion caused by toxic components of aircraft engine exhaust gases. The study is concerned with an engine used on the F-16 aircraft, i.e. F100-PW-229. GasTurb 12 software was used to calculate the engine’s operating parameters and to determine nitrogen oxides emission levels. The calculations were also performed analytically. The calculated thrust value was compared with data published in scientific articles (thrust of the engine). Characteristics of NOx emissions were obtained as a function of high-pressure rotor speed, temperature at the combustion chamber outlet, temperature downstream of the compressor, and engine thrust. The results obtained seem to correlate closely with data available in the literature.

Design and development of a fixed-bed pyrolysis plant for the production of biofuel from biomass and agricultural wastes

Thermo decomposition of biomass and agricultural products to produce biochar, bio-oil, and biogas is an environmentally friendly process. Bio-oil is the most valuable among the three products and is an alternative to fossil fuel. Energy crisis is a global issue that requires sustainability of energy sources. Using fossil fuels has resulted in ozone layer depletion, global warming, and greenhouse gas effects with negative consequences. Palm kernel shells (PKS) and other agricultural wastes are underutilized in various ways. A fixed-bed batch reactor was designed and developed to convert palm kernel shells to bio-oil (biofuel) as an alternative to fossil fuel. In the 4 kg batch, the biochar reduced from 54 to 17wt%, bio-oil from 32 to 60 wt%, biogas from 12 to 23wt%, and bio-oil volume from 1256 to 1968 cm3 at the pyrolysis temperature of 300 to 600 oC. The 5 kg batch produced changed from 54 to 24 wt% of biochar, 31 to 56wt% of bio-oil, 15 to 19 wt% of biogas, and bio-oil volume from 2410 to 2655 cm3 as the temperature increased from 300 to 600 oC. The bio-oil is applicable and useful in running internal combustion engines. Biofuel has the physical properties of oil such as smell and colour. Biofuel is an alternative to fossil fuel for a cleaner and greener environment.

Evaluating the use of eggshell powder and sawdust ash as cement replacements in sustainable concrete development

Concrete, the most widely utilized material in construction worldwide, contributes significantly to the consumption of natural resources and energy. The construction sector is a major source of waste and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, making it essential to improve the environmental impact of concrete to address climate change and pollution concerns. Evaluating the environmental footprint of concrete is crucial for advancing sustainable building practices. Cement, a key binder in concrete, is particularly responsible for GHG emissions due to its energy-intensive production process. This study applies the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology, using SimaPro software and the Ecoinvent database, to assess the environmental impact of concrete. A modified concrete mix was developed by replacing Portland Composite Cement with Eggshell Powder (ESP) (60% by weight) and Sawdust Ash (SDA) (40% by weight) at varying replacement rates of 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%. The results showed up to 20% for replacement cement with ESP and SDA improved compressive strength in a 28-56 day period, with the highest strength growth rate of 29.58% observed for the mixes with replacement. However, higher replacement levels of 30% and 40% showed limited strength improvement during the same period. The enhanced compressive Strength and higher strength growth (compared to tra- ditional concrete) are observed withare0-20 % replacement of cement s. This suggests that this blend of materials could be used in projects with significant budget constraints, directly decreasing carbon emissions associated with concrete production. This aligns with global sustainability goals and can be used in projects aiming for green certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). The study indicates that substituting cement with ESP and SDA reduces costs. This can sig- nificantly benefit low-budget housing projects or areas with high cement prices, providing a direct economic advantage. The environmental performance of the modified concrete was analyzed through LCA following the ISO 14040:2006 framework, focusing on the cradle-to-grave impacts, including raw material extraction, energy consumption, and water usage. One cubic meter of concrete was chosen as the functional unit. The analysis revealed significant reductions in the endpoint impact categories, including a 59% reduction in ecosystem impacts, 60% in human health, 61% in resource depletion, 59.79% in ozone depletion, and 54.32% in fossil fuel depletion. These results highlight the potential of ESP and SDA as sustainable alternatives for improving concrete's mechanical properties and environ- mental performance, supporting the development of more sustainable construction practices.

Sustainability assessment of different pipeline materials in freshwater supply systems

Freshwater supply systems are considered as an important component within urban water systems. Although the development of freshwater supply systems may have significant impact on the environment, there have been only a few studies examining its environmental effects. This paper assesses the environmental impact of four pipeline materials in freshwater supply system using life cycle assessment following ISO 14040–14044 standards. The SimaPro 9.6.0.1 software was used for life cycle analysis. The results indicated that steel has a greater environmental impact in most impact categories during the pipe manufacturing phase than other pipeline materials. During the installation phase, two types of trenches were considered for plastic pipelines and steel pipelines installation and found that the plastic pipe trench experiences its greatest impact during installation phase. To showcase the practicality of the suggested approach, a segment of the Seri Iskandar freshwater supply system was chosen as a case study. The findings revealed that by substituting a portion of the pipes with environmentally sustainable materials, the environmental impact during manufacturing and materials phase of pipelines used for construction of FWSS can be reduced by 14% in fossil resource scarcity, 19% in ozone layer depletion, 20% in ionization radiation, 22% in climate change, and 25% in marine ecotoxicity potential.

The joint effect of mid-latitude winds and the westerly quasi-biennial oscillation phase on the Antarctic stratospheric polar vortex and ozone

Abstract. The quasi-biennial oscillation (QBO) dynamically interacts with the extratropical atmosphere. However, the relationship between the QBO in austral winter and the Antarctic stratospheric polar vortex in spring remains unclear. In this study, we propose a joint predictor involving the QBO for the Antarctic stratospheric polar vortex and ozone in austral spring. During the westerly QBO phase (WQBO), positive zonal-mean zonal wind anomalies at 20–40° S in the upper stratosphere in July, named the positive extratropical mode, can lead to a stronger Antarctic stratospheric polar vortex and lower ozone concentration in November, with correlations reaching 0.75 and −0.60, respectively. The mechanism is summarized as follows: the positive extratropical mode triggers a secondary circulation, which further alters the environmental conditions for wave propagation in the stratosphere. The resulting anomalous wave divergence leads to a stronger Antarctic stratospheric polar vortex during the austral spring, while during the easterly QBO phase (EQBO), the correlation between the extratropical mode and the strength of the polar vortex is only 0.1. Due to the stronger upward motion in the tropics, which opposes the secondary circulation induced by the extratropical mode, the EQBO cannot sustain the positive anomalous zonal-mean zonal wind until November. Our results highlight that the extratropical mode during the WQBO could serve as a reliable predictor for both the Antarctic stratospheric polar vortex and the Antarctic ozone hole with a 4-month time lag.

Characterization, Activation, and Life Cycle Analysis of Rice Husk Biochar

Rice husk is generated in abundance in India, and requires efficient utilization for sustainable management of agricultural residues. Traditionally, farmers burn rice husks, which leads to environmental degradation. Biochar production offers an effective waste management solution, mitigating climate change concerns. For a thorough characterization, modification, and assessment on environmental impacts of biochar, a study on production of rice husk biochar using vacuum pyrolysis at three different temperatures, followed by chemical activation with KOH was carried out. Lifecycle assessment (LCA) of biochar and activated biochar was conducted using SimaPro software TRACI 2.1 method. Highest yield of biochar of 33.75%, was observed at 500°C. The activated rice husk biochar produced at 700ºC had calorific value of 23.13 MJ kg-1, surface area of 334.71 m2 g-1 and pore volume of 1.15 cm3 g-1. The global warming potential and ozone layer depletion for activated biochar production was found to be 24.3 tonnes of CO2eq and 0.728 x 10-3 kg CFC-11eq, respectively. Recycling of 50% KOH can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 16.3% and cumulative energy demand (CED) from 92 to 75.1 MWh for Re (KOH). Higher pyrolysis temperatures had significant environmental impact due to generation of higher proportion of syngas, which reduced biochar production.

Life Cycle Assessment and Emission Mass Balance of Cassava-Based Bioethanol: A Feasibility Analysis of Environmental Impacts from Upstream to Downstream in Indonesia

Bioethanol is a promising alternative biofuel for reducing gasoline consumption. Indonesia's bioethanol industry is expanding to achieve the energy mix target through Pertamax Green 95. The government also focuses on energy transition and environmental concerns, especially in the transportation sector. This research aims to inventory and assess the impacts of bioethanol production from cassava in Indonesia and analyze the feasibility of bioethanol consumption in vehicle exhaust emissions. The research method utilizes Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and emission mass balance as the essential analytical tools. The LCA analysis refers to SNI ISO 14040:2016 and SNI ISO 14044:2017, with a cradle-to-gate scope using ReCiPe 2016 Midpoint (H) to assess the potential environmental impact of Global Warming Potential (GWP), Stratospheric Ozone Depletion (SOD) and Terrestrial Acidification (TAC). Whereas vehicle emission feasibility is analyzed using the emission mass balance method to calculate emission concentrations. The research result shows the environmental impacts per liter of bioethanol production from cassava were GWP 11.88 kg CO2 eq, SOD 5.9x10-6 kg CFC11 eq, and TAC 0.04 kg SO2 eq. Emission feasibility analysis signifies that bioethanol combustion vehicles are lower than conventional gasoline. Therefore, it indicates energy and environmental added value through its life cycle.

Investigating the Potential Atmospheric Accumulation and Radiative Impact of the Coming Increase in Satellite Reentry Frequency

Abstract Construction of numerous satellite megaconstellations in the low Earth orbit (LEO) (300–2,000 km) is projected over the coming decades. Estimates suggest that the number of satellites in an LEO could exceed 60,000 by 2040. The increase in the annual mass flux of anthropogenic material into the upper atmosphere as a result of maintaining these megaconstellations could rival the natural occurring meteoric mass flux. Little is known about the aerosols that will be produced by reentry vaporization, which makes estimating the associated impacts on climate and ozone difficult. Aluminum is a primary satellite component that will likely be emitted during reentry vaporization. In this study we simulate a reentry emission of 10 Gg/yr, assuming that all aerosols released is aluminum oxide (Al2O3). This level of Al2O3 emission is consistent with expected megaconstellation growth by 2040. We investigate how the location of atmospheric accumulation, aerosol size distribution, and radiative properties of reentry Al2O3 impacts the middle‐to‐upper atmosphere. We find that depending on reentry latitude and aerosol size distribution, a 20–40‐Gg stratospheric burden of Al2O3 aerosols accumulates poleward of 30 N/S between 10 and 30 km. Small but statistically significant changes in mesospheric heating rates lead to 1.5 K‐temperature anomalies in the mesosphere and the stratosphere at Southern Hemisphere high latitudes. These temperature anomalies are accompanied by a 10% reduction in wind speed in the Southern Hemisphere polar vortex, leading to a weaker springtime ozone hole. Some reentry scenarios also experience a strengthening of the Northern Hemisphere polar vortex.

Critical Need for Gender-Sensitive Climate-Smart Agricultural Policies: A Comprehensive Review

Climate change is one of the most pressing global issues, resulting from changes in an area’s climate caused by anthropogenic and natural factors such as increased greenhouse gas emissions and ozone layer depletion. Climate change impacts differ by gender, as men and women’s social conditions in different places influence their ability to increase resilience to extreme weather and climate events. Despite the fact that women are primarily involved in agricultural operations, they are often overlooked by information and service providers, unless their unique needs, access to and control over resources are taken into account during the policy and project design stages. This demonstrates the importance of incorporating gender considerations into various policies and research to ensure the effective implementation of climate change adaptation interventions in agriculture. Instead of focusing on each issue separately, it is critical to consider how gender, agriculture and climate change are interconnected in order to achieve this. As a result, this review paper identifies policy gaps and makes a number of recommendations for improving gender responsiveness at the policy level in agriculture, emphasizing the importance of developing climate smart projects with gender in mind by learning about cutting-edge gender-transformative interventions accountable for serving both gender.