Goethe University Frankfurt’s new measuring device: Halogenated greenhouse gases are also emitted in Germany
Goethe University Frankfurt’s new measuring d EurekAlert
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Feature Story | 21-Jul-2023
Goethe University Frankfurt commences measurement of halogenated hydrocarbons on Kleiner Feldberg, a mountain near Frankfurt
Goethe University Frankfurt
image: The Taunus Observatory on the mountain Kleiner Feldberg near Frankfurt am Main houses the new “Medusa” device, which detects climate-relevant F-gases.
Credit: Markus Bernards for Goethe University Frankfurt
Introduction
In the past, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were widely used in refrigerators and aerosols until it was discovered that they were depleting the ozone layer. Since 2000, the Montreal Protocol has effectively banned CFC production worldwide. However, halogenated hydrocarbons without chlorine, known as F-gases, have been used as substitutes. It was later found that these F-gases, although not harmful to the ozone layer, are potent greenhouse gases. In 2016, F-gases were included in the Montreal Protocol through the “Kigali Amendment”. The F-Gas Regulation (517/2014) in Europe aims to reduce emissions of F-gases.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
- SDG 15: Life on Land
Measuring Halogenated Hydrocarbons
Halogenated greenhouse gases, including F-gases, have a significant impact on climate change, contributing up to nine percent of the anthropogenic greenhouse effect. The concentration of these gases in the atmosphere has not been systematically monitored in Germany until now.
As part of the ACTRIS research infrastructure, scientists from Goethe University Frankfurt have deployed a measuring device called “Medusa” at the Taunus Observatory on Kleiner Feldberg, a mountain near Frankfurt. This device continuously measures the concentration of various trace gases relevant to the atmosphere. The measurements of halogenated greenhouse gases are also incorporated into the international AGAGE network, which has been monitoring climate-relevant trace gases worldwide since 1978. These measurements provide high-quality data that can be compared globally.
Research Findings
Professor Andreas Engel from the Institute for Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences at Goethe University Frankfurt, who is leading the “Medusa” project, states that their measurements have already revealed significant sources of F-gases in Germany. To further understand and quantify F-gas emissions, researchers from Germany, Switzerland, and the UK have collaborated on an EU-funded project. Computer models will be used to analyze the data and identify the regions of origin for these emissions.
Professor Engel emphasizes the importance of shifting from research-based measurements to official air monitoring in the long term. He suggests establishing a program that integrates the systematic recording of halogenated greenhouse gases, including F-gases, into the official atmospheric measurement system. This would provide sufficient data to identify sources and implement appropriate countermeasures.
Conclusion
The measurement of halogenated hydrocarbons, particularly F-gases, is crucial for understanding and addressing climate change. Goethe University Frankfurt’s “Medusa” project, in collaboration with international partners, is contributing to the systematic monitoring of these gases in Germany. The findings will inform efforts to reduce emissions and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
Background
AGAGE
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 15: Life on Land
The article discusses the measurement and monitoring of halogenated hydrocarbons, specifically F-gases, which are potent greenhouse gases. This directly relates to SDG 13, which aims to take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. Additionally, the measurement of trace gases relevant for the atmosphere and the identification of their sources align with SDG 15, which focuses on protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
- SDG 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services
The article mentions the need to shift from research to official air monitoring for measuring F-gases. This aligns with SDG 13.2, as it emphasizes the integration of climate change measures into national policies and planning. Additionally, the measurement of halogenated greenhouse gases and the identification of their sources contribute to the goal of conserving and restoring terrestrial ecosystems, as stated in SDG 15.1.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Measurement of F-gas concentrations in the atmosphere
- Comparison of F-gas data with international measurements
- Quantification of F-gas emissions using computer models
- Identification of regions of origin for F-gas emissions
The article mentions the use of a measuring device called “Medusa” to continuously measure the concentration of halogenated greenhouse gases, including F-gases. This measurement can serve as an indicator to track progress towards the targets. Additionally, the comparison of data with international measurements, quantification of emissions using computer models, and identification of regions of origin provide further indicators to measure progress in addressing F-gas emissions.
4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 13: Climate Action | 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning | – Measurement of F-gas concentrations in the atmosphere – Comparison of F-gas data with international measurements – Quantification of F-gas emissions using computer models – Identification of regions of origin for F-gas emissions |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services | – Measurement of F-gas concentrations in the atmosphere – Comparison of F-gas data with international measurements – Quantification of F-gas emissions using computer models – Identification of regions of origin for F-gas emissions |
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Source: eurekalert.org
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