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MAX-DOAS observations of ship emissions in the North Sea

  • 0Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune, India; IMT Nord Europe, Institut Mines-Télécom, University of Lille, Centre for Energy and Environment, F-59000 Lille, France.
Marine Pollution Bulletin +

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July 31, 2024

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July 31, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Shipping emissions significantly impact air quality in Dunkirk, France, with elevated pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) detected. Despite ship contributions, land-based industrial sources remain the primary pollution drivers.

Area Of Science

  • Environmental Science
  • Atmospheric Chemistry
  • Marine Pollution

Background

  • Shipping is a major global economic activity with significant environmental implications.
  • Air quality near ports is influenced by both maritime and land-based industrial emissions.
  • Regulations on fuel content aim to reduce pollution from ships.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To quantify the impact of shipping emissions on air quality in Dunkirk, France.
  • To differentiate between pollution from ships and land-based sources.
  • To assess compliance with maritime fuel regulations.

Main Methods

  • In-situ measurements of aerosol extinction coefficients (AEC), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and formaldehyde (HCHO).
  • Analysis of air pollutant concentrations at varying distances from the surface and in relation to wind direction.
  • Assessment of SO2/NO2 ratios to infer emission sources and fuel compliance.

Main Results

  • Elevated AEC, NO2, and SO2 were observed up to 500m from the surface, linked to shipping activities.
  • Formaldehyde (HCHO) levels did not consistently increase, suggesting slower VOC oxidation or dilution of direct emissions.
  • Background NO2, HCHO, and SO2 levels were higher with onshore winds, indicating significant land-based industrial contributions.
  • Distinct spikes in NO2 and SO2 confirmed ship plume impacts, though land sources dominated overall pollution.
  • Low SO2/NO2 ratios, varying by ship type, indicated general compliance with new fuel regulations.

Conclusions

  • Shipping emissions contribute significantly to air pollution in Dunkirk, but are secondary to land-based industrial sources.
  • The observed SO2/NO2 ratios suggest that most ships in the region adhere to current fuel content regulations.
  • Further research is needed to understand the atmospheric chemistry of ship-emitted VOCs and their contribution to secondary pollutants.

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