A groundbreaking study by PolyU reveals that soil nitrous acid (HONO) emissions, influenced by climate change and fertilization, are escalating global ozone pollution.
Ozone, crucial for filtering UV radiation in the stratosphere, becomes a threat at surface level due to the role of HONO in accelerating ozone formation through photolysis.
The research led by Prof. Tao Wang unveils a substantial increase in global soil HONO emissions over a 36-year period, intensifying ozone pollution.
Soil HONO emissions contribute to a global average yearly increase of 2.5% in surface ozone mixing ratios, with significant localized spikes.
Regions with intensive agriculture, particularly Asia, show as notable 'hotspots' for soil HONO emissions, impacting ecosystems and plant health.
The study emphasizes that reductions in traditional anthropogenic emissions may shift focus to the relative importance of soil HONO emissions in influencing ozone levels.
Soil HONO emissions driven by climate warming and fertilization practices could counteract pollution reduction efforts, requiring an integrated pollution control strategy.
The research approach integrates diverse datasets and advanced modeling to understand soil HONO's role in atmospheric chemistry, adding credibility to the findings.
Future work aims to enhance global soil HONO emission measurements, deepen microbiological understanding, and explore agricultural strategies to mitigate emissions effectively.
The study underscores the importance of balancing fertilization practices for crop yield and environmental preservation, proposing solutions for sustainable development.
In conclusion, PolyU's study reshapes understanding of ozone pollution drivers, highlighting the nexus between climate change, agriculture, and atmospheric chemistry in combating pollution and climate challenges.