Evaluating the Relationship Between Dust Concentrations and Nitrogen Dioxide Levels: A Comparative Study of Kerman and Isfahan- Iran

Subject Areas : Environment

Sajed Rezazadeh ¹ , Ali Akbar Jamali ² , Malihe Zakerian ³ , Hossein Hatefi ⁴

1 - PhD student of Islamic Azad University of Yazd
2 - Associate Professor, Department of GIS-RS and Watershed Management, Maybod Branch, Islamic Azad University, Maybod, Iran
3 - Assistant Professor, Department of Geography, Meybod Branch , Islamic Azad University, Meybod, Iran
4 - PhD student of Islamic Azad University of Yazd

Received: 2022-08-15 Accepted : 2022-12-22 Published : 2024-05-30

Keywords: Dust, Nitrogen Dioxide Concentration, Remote Sensing, Google Earth Engine ,

Abstract :

Background and objective: Air quality, particularly concerning dust and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) levels, has become a significant environmental concern in urban areas like Kerman and Isfahan, Iran. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between dust concentrations and NO₂ levels with environmental factors, including land use, wind intensity, and vegetation cover (NDVI). By understanding these dynamics, the study seeks to inform effective air quality management strategies. Materials and methods: Data on dust concentrations and NO₂ levels were obtained using Sentinel – 5P and remote sensing techniques and analyzed through Google Earth Engine (GEE). The study employed a comprehensive approach, incorporating satellite imagery for NDVI assessment and land use classification into five categories. Wind intensity was measured using meteorological data. Statistical analyses were conducted to evaluate the correlations between these variables. Results and conclusion: The findings indicate a significant positive correlation between wind intensity and dust volumes, particularly in Kerman, where the highest dust concentrations are noted. In contrast, Isfahan exhibits higher NO₂ levels, mainly in industrial areas with limited vegetation cover. This study confirms both hypotheses: increased wind intensity correlates with higher dust levels, and greater vegetation cover is associated with lower NO₂ concentrations. The results highlight the importance of incorporating environmental factors into air quality assessments, providing a foundation for developing targeted air quality management strategies in both cities.

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