Sichuan's Alarming Air Pollution Levels Threaten Public Health and Environment
Researchers created a detailed inventory of air pollutants in Sichuan Province by combining data and technology. They found that Chengdu has high emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM), black carbon (BC), organic carbon (OC), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and ammonia (NH3). Power plants and industrial boilers are major sources of SO2, while vehicles and industrial processes contribute to NOx emissions. Industries like steel production and construction impact PM levels. Fugitive dust from roads and biomass burning also play a role. VOCs come from various sources like mechanical processing and furniture making. High emission areas are found in densely populated and industrial regions. Livestock and fertilizers are key NH3 sources. Improved data accuracy is needed to aid pollution control efforts in Sichuan Province.