علوم محیطی (Jun 2024)
Examination and Analysis of Annual, Seasonal, and Monthly Variations in Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide Concentration Across the Middle East Region Utilizing SCIAMACHY, GOSAT, and OCO-2 Satellite Data
Abstract
Introduction: Climate change and global warming, caused by the increase in the concentrationof greenhouse gases, have garnered significant attention across various national and internationalsectors. The emission of greenhouse gases has long been recognized as one of the most pressingenvironmental issues, sparking widespread concern. Since the Industrial Revolution, the demandfor energy and the consumption of fossil fuels have escalated, leading to increased greenhouse gasemissions. While the input and output of atmospheric carbon dioxide have traditionally remainedin balance with nature, human activities and carbon dioxide emissions have disrupted thisequilibrium in recent decades, giving rise to climate change and global warming.Material and Methods: There are various methods for measuring atmospheric carbon dioxide.Remote sensing technology, in particular, has emerged as a solution, overcoming the limitationsof ground-based measurement methods by offering continuous monitoring and global coverageof greenhouse gases. Despite the absence of ground stations for monitoring greenhouse gases inthe Middle East region, spanning 7,207,570 square kilometers, this study investigates the monthly,seasonal, and annual atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide using data from satellites suchas SCIAMACHY, GOSAT, and OCO. The study period spans from 2003 to 2020.Results and Discussion: The findings indicate a significant increase in atmospheric carbondioxide concentration over the 18 years examined by all three satellites. In addition toexamining annual changes, this study also investigated seasonal and monthly variations inatmospheric CO2 concentration. The lowest concentrations of this greenhouse gas occurredduring the summer months, particularly in August and September, while the highestconcentrations were observed during the spring months, specifically in April and May.Furthermore, the analysis of differences in atmospheric CO2 between seasons revealed the mostsignificant changes from spring to summer, with an average decrease of 6 ppm. Conversely,the highest increases in atmospheric CO2 between seasons were observed from summer toautumn, with a recorded average increase of approximately 4 ppm.Conclusion: This research indicates a notable increase in atmospheric CO2 concentration in theMiddle East region from 2003 to 2020, accompanied by seasonal and monthly fluctuationsconsistent with global trends of this greenhouse gas. This long-term rise in greenhouse gaslevels can lead to various detrimental effects in the region, including temperature escalation,alterations in rainfall patterns, heightened drought severity, and damage to natural ecosystems.Consequently, the socio-economic stability of the region could be jeopardized, impactingagriculture, water resources, human health, and biodiversity. To effectively manage andmitigate greenhouse gas emissions, immediate action is imperative at both national andinternational levels. Such measures may involve promoting renewable energy sources,enhancing energy efficiency, curbing industrial pollution, advancing emission reductiontechnologies, and fostering regional and international collaboration in greenhouse gas reductionefforts. Moreover, public awareness campaigns and policy interventions are essential tomobilize stakeholders and facilitate the transition to a low-carbon economy in the Middle East,ensuring sustainable development and climate resilience for future generations.
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