Air pollution analysis in Northwestern South America: A new Lagrangian framework

Abstract

This study examines the spatiotemporal variations of PM_2.5, PM₁₀, SO₂, O₃, NO, and NO₂ concentrations in Northwestern South America (NWSA). We assess the efficacy of existing policies, identify underlying phenomena, and highlight areas for further research. Significant findings have emerged by analyzing reanalysis and in-situ data, employing the WRF-Chem model, and utilizing a new Lagrangian framework designed to overcome some drawbacks common to analysis of pollution Long-Range Transport. Wildfires in the first half of the year and volcanic activity (for SO₂) in July-August contribute to over 90 % of the pollutant's advection, leading to high pollution levels in urban areas. SO₂ volcanic emissions contribute to secondary PM, explaining the peak in PM concentrations in Cali in July. In the second half of the year, pollutant behavior varies based on factors such as city characteristics, vehicular-volume, air temperature, wind speed, and boundary layer height, and O₃ is influenced by solar radiation and the NO/NO₂ ratio. Diurnal variations of PM and NO_x correlate with vehicular density, SO₂ with industrial activity, and O₃ depends on solar radiation. Trend analysis reveals decreasing PM₁₀ levels except in three Cundinamarca cities and Cali suggesting the need to implement/evaluate control plans in those locations. Although data is limited, NO and NO₂ levels show an increasing trend due to the rising number of vehicles. SO₂ levels are decreasing, except in Cali, potentially influenced by the nearby industrial and polluted city of Yumbo. O₃ displays a downward trend in most cities, except Bogotá, due to the NO/NO₂ ratio favoring O₃ increase. These findings provide a starting point for further research to deepen our understanding of NWSA air pollution. Such investigations are essential before modifying existing policies or enacting new ones. Collaborative efforts at the international, regional, and inter-city levels are crucial for effective air quality management.

Keywords: CAMS/ERA5 reanalysis; Forest fires; Long-range transport; Volcanic emissions; WRF-Chem model.