PREPARING THE CO2 ATLAS OF PAKISTAN VIA SATELLITE OBSERVATIONS

Abstract

Study of spatial distributions of different greenhouse gases by using satellite instruments has been largely improved since past thirty years. It has given new dimensions to the monitoring of atmospheric composition not only at the global scale but also at the regional and even at local scale. This is an important step forward to acquire the knowledge about composition and evolution of the atmosphere around the globe. Increase in CO2 concentrations, an important greenhouse gas, plays a vital role in altering the climatic conditions. This study proposes to investigate temporal and seasonal variations in CO2 concentrations over Pakistan during the period of seven years (2003-2009). Main emphasis was made on the hotspot regions where concentration of CO2 has risen to the level above global averages. Results showed a temporal increase of about 3.32% in the amount of CO2 over seven years (2003 - 2009). Both maxima and minima in CO2 concentrations have shown an increasing trend. This increase may be attributed to increase in the fossil fuel combustion during the suggested period. It has also been observed that regions in the KPK and the Gilgit-Baltistan provinces of Pakistan have shown marked increase in the concentrations of CO2. The increase may be attributed to increase in deforestation and land use change.