European pollen reanalysis, 1980-2022, for alder, birch, and olive.

Area of Science:

• Atmospheric Science
• Environmental Science
• Aerobiology

Background:

• Pollen seasons significantly impact human health and ecosystems.
• Accurate long-term pollen data is essential for climate change and vegetation studies.
• Previous reanalysis efforts lacked comprehensive coverage of major European allergenic tree pollen.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a 43-year reanalysis dataset of pollen seasons for alder (Alnus), birch (Betula), and olive (Olea) in Europe.
• To model Europe-wide pollen dispersion patterns from 1980-2022.
• To provide a valuable resource for research on climate-driven vegetation changes, biodiversity, and health applications.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the ERA5 meteorological reanalysis dataset.
• Employed the SILAM atmospheric composition model for predictions.
• Integrated in-situ aerobiological network observations from 34 European countries using 4D-Var data assimilation.

Main Results:

• Generated a comprehensive 43-year (1980-2022) pollen reanalysis dataset for key European allergenic trees.
• Modeled inter-annual variability and trends in pollen production and distribution across Europe.
• Validated model outputs against extensive in-situ observations.

Conclusions:

• The dataset offers a robust tool for investigating long-term pollen dynamics.
• It supports research into climate and anthropogenic impacts on European ecosystems and public health.
• Enables advanced bioaerosol modeling and biodiversity monitoring.