Air Quality Based on the Spatial-Temporal Variations of Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10)Concentrations Using R

Abstract

Air pollution is an escalating health problem in Iraq, particularly since dry and semi-dry conditions often exacerbate the loads of airborne dust and particles. We assess the impact of fine particulate matter PM2. with freely available Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) products from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather forecast (ECMWF) over Iraq. The analyses were performed on the year 2021, with a focus from January to March due to higher pollution levels within this period, it can be expected that particle concentrations are elevated. We also calculated the annual mean PM2. PM2. 5 and PM10 for 2021 are provided for a more global perspective with relevant international air-quality reference level. We used spatial methods in R to apply particulate matter fields to 20 of Iraq’s major cities, which allowed us to map geographic inconsistencies and areas with chronically high pollution. Results show that regional contrasts are considered very strong: PM2. 5 and PH10 than cities situated north or southwest. The observed patterns are in line with the synergistic influences of weather variability, recurrent dust storms, and local emissions associated with oil industry activity and urban stressors. PM2. In the most polluted areas, it was trained to 2023 data. Large portion of fine particles as implied by 5 relative to PM10.In total, mean PM concentrations were above WHO guidelines for all the cities surveyed with high levels of exposure likely resulting in health consequences. These results support the case for air pollution control and place specific interventions in Iraq.