Pinpointing and Characterizing Large Anthropogenic Emitters of Atmospheric Reactive Nitrogen in China Using
Chengxin Zhang1,2, Zhiman Wang1,2, Cheng Liu1,3,2
1Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China.
Environmental Science & Technology
|November 20, 2025
Summary
This study maps facility-level reactive nitrogen (Nr) emissions, including nitrogen oxides (NOx) and ammonia (NH3), in China from 2018-2022. It reveals emission hotspots and sector-specific efficiencies, crucial for air quality management.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Atmospheric Chemistry
- Remote Sensing
Background:
- Atmospheric reactive nitrogen (Nr) emissions significantly impact air quality and public health.
- Limited facility-level monitoring hinders effective regulation of Nr emissions from industrial sectors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and map facility-level nitrogen oxides (NOx) and ammonia (NH3) emission sources in China (2018-2022).
- To analyze emission distributions, sectoral efficiencies, and influencing factors for targeted air quality management.
Main Methods:
- Developed a satellite-based algorithm integrating multisource data (NO2, NH3 concentrations, fire points, imagery).
- Identified 1372 NOx and 1069 NH3 facility-level emission sources across China.
- Analyzed emission concentrations, co-location, sectoral contributions, and influencing factors.
Main Results:
- Emissions concentrated in the Yangtze River Delta and North China Plain; 76% of sources co-located.
- NH3 emissions prevalent in western China, NOx in the northeast.
- Steel facilities showed highest emission-control efficiency per unit energy, unlike cement and chemical plants.
- Facility-level changes and policies significantly influenced emission trends.
Conclusions:
- This study provides critical insights into facility-level Nr emissions in China.
- Findings support targeted emission management strategies for improved air quality.
- Understanding provincial disparities driven by industrial structure and policy is key.
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