S-5P/TROPOMI-Derived NO<sub>x</sub> Emissions From Copper/Cobalt Mining and Other Industrial Activities in the Copperbelt (Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia)

Journal article (2023)

Authors

S. Martínez-Alonso National Center for Atmospheric Research
j. Pepijn Veefkind Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI), Atmospheric Remote Sensing - CEG
Barbara Dix University of Colorado
B. Gaubert National Center for Atmospheric Research
N. Theys Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy (BIRA-IASB)
C. Granier University of Toulouse UPS, University of Colorado, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
A. Soulié University of Toulouse UPS
S. Darras Observatoire Midi-Pyrénées
Pieternel Felicitas Levelt Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI), Atmospheric Remote Sensing - CEG , National Center for Atmospheric Research
Research Group
Atmospheric Remote Sensing (CEG) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2023 S. Martínez-Alonso, j. Pepijn Veefkind, B. Dix, B. Gaubert, N. Theys, C. Granier, A. Soulié, S. Darras, Pieternel Felicitas Levelt
DOI
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https://doi.org/10.1029/2023GL104109
More Info
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Published Date

2023

Language

English

Faculty

Civil Engineering & Geosciences

Department

Geoscience and Remote Sensing

Research Group

Atmospheric Remote Sensing

Abstract

We have analyzed Sentinel-5 Precursor TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI) data over the Copperbelt mining region (Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia). Despite high background values, annual 2019–2022 means of TROPOMI NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) show local enhancements consistent with six point sources (four copper/cobalt mines, two cities) where high-emission industrial activities take place. We have quantified annual NOx (nitrogen oxides) emissions from these point sources, identified temporal trends in emissions, and found strong correlations with production data from colocated mines and one oil refinery. The Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service Global Anthropogenic (CAMS-GLOB-ANT) version 5 inventory underpredicts TROPOMI-derived emissions and lacks the temporal trends observed in TROPOMI and mine/refinery production. These results demonstrate the potential for satellite monitoring of mining and other industrial activities, often unreported or underestimated, which impact the air quality of local communities. This is particularly important for Africa, where mining is increasing aggressively.