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Anthropogenic combustion iron as a complex climate forcer.
Hitoshi Matsui1,2, Natalie M Mahowald3, Nobuhiro Moteki4
1Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan, 464-8601. matsui@nagoya-u.jp.
Nature Communications
|April 25, 2018
Summary
Anthropogenic combustion iron, primarily from fossil fuels, is 8 times higher than previously estimated. This finding significantly impacts ocean biogeochemistry and climate forcing, highlighting its crucial role in the Earth system.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric chemistry and aerosol science
- Oceanography and biogeochemistry
- Climate science
Background:
- Atmospheric iron deposition influences ocean biogeochemistry and the global carbon cycle.
- Anthropogenic combustion iron is traditionally considered a minor source of soluble iron compared to mineral dust and biomass burning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the atmospheric burden and deposition flux of anthropogenic combustion iron.
- To assess the impact of anthropogenic iron on ocean biogeochemistry and radiative forcing.
Main Methods:
- Incorporation of recent measurements of anthropogenic magnetite into a global aerosol model.
- Quantification of atmospheric iron burden and deposition fluxes.
- Estimation of direct radiative forcing from anthropogenic magnetite.
Main Results:
- The atmospheric burden of anthropogenic combustion iron is estimated to be 8 times greater than previous assessments.
- Total soluble iron deposition to southern oceans increased by 52%, with anthropogenic iron becoming a dominant source.
- Direct radiative forcing of anthropogenic magnetite was calculated globally and regionally (East Asia).
Conclusions:
- Anthropogenic combustion iron is a more significant climate forcer than previously recognized.
- The revised estimates necessitate a re-evaluation of iron's role in ocean biogeochemistry and climate regulation.
- Anthropogenic iron emissions play a key role in the Earth system, influencing both oceanic processes and climate.
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