Anthropogenic CO and NOx Emission Inventory in Thailand
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Abstract
Air pollution remains a critical environmental issue in Thailand, particularly in relation to Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), which are closely linked to transportation, industrial activities, biomaass burning, and energy consumption. Although CO and NOx concentrations in Thailand may not always exceed national air quality standards, they are critical primary precursors for secondary pollutants, particularly tropospheric ozone [5], making the monitoring of their emission inventories essential for effective air quality management. This study aimed to investigate the spatial distribution, emission sources, and seasonal variability of anthropogenic CO and NOx emissions in Thailand during 2014–2024 using the CAMS-GLOB-ANT v6.2 emission inventory obtained from the ECCAD database. It should be noted that this dataset covers strictly anthropogenic sources and agricultural open burning, and does not include natural forest fire emissions. The results indicate that CO and NOx exhibit similar spatial distributions, with relatively high emissions concentrated in the Central and Eastern regions, particularly in major urban, industrial, and transportation corridors. In contrast, emissions in the Northeastern region are more spatially dispersed, whereas the Northern and Southern regions display localized or corridor-like patterns influenced by topography and settlement structure. Road transportation was identified as the dominant source of emissions in most regions, while agricultural waste burning, industrial processes, refineries, and power generation contributed differently depending on regional economic characteristics. Monthly analysis showed that both CO and NOx emissions increased from March to May, with peak levels in May, reflecting the combined effects of late dry-season biomass burning and meteorological conditions favorable to pollutant accumulation. Overall, the findings demonstrate that anthropogenic CO and NOx emissions in Thailand are strongly shaped by regional economic activities, land-use characteristics, and seasonal factors, underscoring the need for region-specific air pollution management strategies.
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