Satellite-Based Identification of Large Anthropogenic NMVOC Emission Sources

Abstract

Nonmethane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs) emitted in excess from anthropogenic sources significantly contribute to the formation of harmful pollutants, thereby degrading air quality. While satellite measurements have become valuable tools for tracking anthropogenic emitters, they have primarily targeted inorganic species and methane (${\text{CH}}_4$). This study demonstrates the potential of infrared atmospheric sounding interferometers (IASI) to detect anthropogenic NMVOC point sources on a global scale. Using an advanced oversampling technique, we enhance the spatial resolution of IASI measurements to identify emitters of three major NMVOCs: methanol (${\text{CH}}_3$OH), acetylene ($C_2{H}_2$), and propylene ($C_3{H}_6$). These point sources are primarily associated with chemical and petrochemical facilities, coal-burning activities, metallurgy, pharmaceutical manufacturing sites, and megacities. We also highlight the value of combining IASI measurements of NMVOCs with those of the inorganic species, such as sulfur dioxide (${\text{SO}}_2$) and ammonia (${\text{NH}}_3$), to aid in the identification of anthropogenic point sources.