Estimation of national sources and sinks of greenhouse gases based on satellite observations

Abstract

Human-driven Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are the most significant contributor to climate change. World countries and Egypt are moving towards achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) 2030, and 2050, to reach Net-Zero emissions. Based on satellite observations, this research assesses and monitors the GHG emissions induced by human activities in Egypt. Different satellite sensors were utilized in this study to obtain Methane (CH₄), Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) amounts during 2015–2022. To get a deeper insight into the effects of anthropogenic activities on CO₂ and CH₄ amounts, they were correlated with land use and land cover, fire incidents, and industrial activities in Egypt. Results revealed a noticeable increase in CH₄ and CO₂ emissions over the country with a maximum level in 2022. CO₂ has a seasonal variation mode, with the highest amounts in spring reaching 0.000409 CO₂/mol dry-air. As well, the high CH₄ concentration fluctuates all the year-round, with a peak around 1890 ppbv in August. The high levels of GHGs mostly concentrated in the Nile Delta and Nile Valley, where most of the anthropogenic activities are existing. Fire incidents, industries, and land cover change maps showed a spatial matching with the high emission zones. However, the emissions are increasing in Egypt it does not exceed the global average. In conclusion, unmanaged human activities in Egypt increased GHGs release and affected environmental sustainability. This study attempts to better understand the ambient environment in Egypt and support the decision-makers with full insight into the GHG emission hotspots in the country to mitigate their release into the atmosphere and achieve Net-Zero emissions.