Global anthropogenic sulfur dioxide emissions, 1750-2022
Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) is a major air pollutant produced from burning sulfur-containing fuels. It poses health risks, including respiratory issues and links to heart disease, while harming the environment by contributing to acid rain. Emissions have significantly decreased due to regulations and technology, but global reliance on fossil fuels continues to impact levels.
Satellite detection of methane plumes, 2022-2024
Satellites significantly enhance our understanding of methane emissions, responsible for about 30% of anthropogenic global warming. The United Nations Environment Programme’s Methane Alert and Response System detects plumes from waste, oil, gas, and coal, identifying super emitters to improve emissions accountability. Methane from waste facilities is particularly concerning due to inefficient capture methods.
Global anthropogenic nitrous oxide emissions, 1970-2022
Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change and ozone depletion, with human activities significantly increasing its emissions since the 1970s. Key sources include agricultural practices, livestock manure, and industrial emissions. Action is necessary across sectors to mitigate N2O emissions and improve nutrient management strategies.
Global black carbon emissions, 1750-2022
Anthropogenic black carbon, or soot, arises from incomplete combustion of organic materials, significantly impacting climate change and public health. It causes global warming, degrades air quality, and leads to various health issues. Major contributors include residential fuel usage and transportation emissions. Reducing black carbon relies on cleaner fuel access and improved combustion technologies.
Oil and chemical releases into United States waters
Crude oil and natural gas are refined into numerous fuel types and petrochemicals, contributing to over 6000 consumer products. However, extraction and processing lead to significant accidents, with approximately 4600 incidents reported since 1957, primarily affecting rivers and coastal areas due to industrial activities and transportation routes, highlighting environmental hazards.
What fuels have the lowest CO2 emissions?
There are two main sources of greenhouse gas emissions: stationary (e.g., power plants, refineries) and mobile (e.g., cars, trucks). Transportation contributes 24% of energy-related CO2 emissions, with fossil fuels dominating. LNG in maritime transport shows potential for reduced CO2 emissions, but methane leakages must be addressed. Coal has the highest CO2 emissions factor among widely used fuels.
Where in the United States is the net carbon benefit of direct air capture the greatest?
Direct Air Capture and Storage (DACCS) systems, which remove CO2 from the atmosphere, offer a significant carbon benefit depending on the energy mix of the regional grid. The greatest carbon benefit is achieved when DAC processes utilize zero-carbon sources like renewables and nuclear power. The ongoing decarbonization of the grid in most regions of the United States supports the effectiveness of DAC and electrification technologies.
Coal mine superemitters of methane
Methane emissions from coal mines are a significant concern for greenhouse gas reduction. Certain mines, known as “superemitters,” contribute a large proportion of global methane emissions. Factors like mine depth and coal rank affect methane content. While reducing coal use in electricity generation is important, mitigating methane emissions from mines needs greater attention.
Explore Boston’s Energy, Climate, and Equity Initiatives
Is Boston on track to be carbon-neutral by 2050?
Boston strives for carbon neutrality by 2050, but faces hurdles with its reliance on fossil fuels. Buildings contribute most to emissions, driven by electricity and natural gas. Decarbonizing the grid and eliminating natural gas are vital for success. While progress has been made, meeting targets remains uncertain. Priorities include electrifying buildings, local energy planning, coastal resilience, and climate justice.