Ammonia reduction should be prioritized in Europe’s fight against air pollution

Europe Faces Challenges in Reducing Air Pollution

A new study conducted by an international team of researchers has highlighted the importance of reducing ammonia emissions as a cost-effective measure to decrease concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the atmosphere. This is significant in the context of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations.

The Impact of PM2.5 on Health

PM2.5, which refers to pollution particles with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers, is a major environmental risk factor for premature deaths worldwide, including in Europe. Despite successful efforts to reduce emissions of air pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, and nitrogen oxides, many parts of Europe still exceed the air quality guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Reducing Ammonia Emissions for Cleaner Air

The study suggests that phasing out emissions of ammonia and nitrogen oxides could lead to a reduction of PM2.5 concentrations by 2.3 µg/m³ on average annually in Europe, potentially preventing about 100,000 premature deaths each year. While reducing nitrogen oxide emissions has a steady impact on pollution reduction, cutting down on ammonia becomes crucial for achieving significant reductions. Additionally, reducing ammonia emissions is about five to ten times more cost-efficient in reducing PM2.5 compared to other measures, emphasizing the importance of focusing on ammonia reductions for overall pollution reduction in Europe.

Identifying Chemical Regimes and Policy Priorities

The study’s lead author, Zehui Liu, explains that their modeling approach identified different chemical regimes across Europe, with varying initial atmospheric compositions. The study found that once nitrogen oxide reductions are successfully implemented, removing ammonia becomes increasingly important. The authors suggest that policy priorities should focus on implementing effective measures in the agricultural sector, which is the main source of ammonia emissions.

Regional Differences and Stricter Control Measures

The study also highlights regional differences in air quality improvements and emphasizes the need for stricter control measures for pollutants other than nitrogen oxides and ammonia to achieve further improvements in particulate matter levels. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers in shaping future strategies to address air pollution and achieve the SDGs.

Learning from Other Countries

The study’s coauthor, Lin Zhang, suggests that lessons can be learned from countries like China and India, which have successfully initiated air pollution reductions. The next steps for emission reductions in these countries can inform future actions in Europe.

Reference

1. Liu, Z., Rieder, H.E., Schmidt, C., Mayer, M., Guo, Y., Winiwarter, W., and Zhang, L. (2023). Optimal reactive nitrogen control pathways identified for cost-effective PM2.5 mitigation in Europe. Nature Communications 14, 4246. DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39900-9

About IIASA

The International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) is an international scientific institute that conducts research into the critical issues of global environmental, economic, technological, and social change that we face in the twenty-first century. Their findings provide valuable options to policymakers to shape the future of our changing world. IIASA is independent and funded by prestigious research funding agencies in Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe. www.iiasa.ac.at

Journal

• Nature Communications

Article Title

• Optimal reactive nitrogen control pathways identified for cost-effective PM2.5 mitigation in Europe

Article Publication Date

• 17-Jul-2023

Disclaimer

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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – The reduction of air pollution, specifically fine particulate matter (PM2.5), is connected to improving health and well-being.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Improving air quality by reducing ammonia emissions contributes to creating sustainable and livable cities.
• SDG 13: Climate Action – Reducing air pollution, including ammonia emissions, is an important aspect of addressing climate change.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
• SDG 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
• SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Reduction of PM2.5 concentrations in the atmosphere: The article mentions that reducing ammonia emissions could lead to a reduction of PM2.5 concentrations by 2.3 µg/m³ on average over Europe.
• Number of premature deaths avoided: The article states that reducing ammonia and nitrogen oxide emissions could avoid about 100,000 premature deaths each year.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: eurekalert.org

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