A comparative assessment of air quality spatial distribution in Alagoas and Asia

Abstract

The state of Alagoas in the Brazilian Northeast (NEB) has not yet been assessed for pollutant spatial distribution through satellite remote sensing and reanalysis data. This research aimed to analyse the state’s spatial distribution throughout 2022 by collecting and processing data from Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) and Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, Version 2 (MERRA2). The data were then interpolated and provided as a state map distribution by city or municipality for all the 102 towns in Alagoas. Additionally, the state is divided into three mesoregions (Coastal – “litoral”, Hinterland – “agreste”, and Arid – “sertão”), each with its specific climatology and characteristics. The pollutants chosen were Ozone (O3) (ozone), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Methane (CH4), and Particulate Matter 2.5 nm (PM2.5) and were displayed in a gradient state map from coastal to arid. The results were also compared to other case studies in Asia. The findings show that pollutants O3 and CH4 form a gradient from the coast to the state’s interior, which is associated with local effects and mesoscale circulation. In contrast, CO and PM2.5 directly relate to high concentrations of vehicles, industries, and agricultural production.