Examination and Analysis of Annual, Seasonal, and Monthly Variations in Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide Concentration Across the Middle East Region Utilizing SCIAMACHY, GOSAT, and OCO-2 Satellite Data

Introduction: Climate change and global warming, caused by the increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, have garnered significant attention across various national and international sectors. The emission of greenhouse gases has long been recognized as one of the most pressing environmental issues, sparking widespread concern. Since the Industrial Revolution and the subsequent changes in human lifestyles, the demand for energy and the consumption of fossil fuels have escalated, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, during this industrialization period, atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration has risen from 280 ppm to 419 ppm. While the input and output of atmospheric carbon dioxide have traditionally remained in balance with nature, human activities and carbon dioxide emissions have disrupted this equilibrium in recent decades, giving rise to climate change and global warming.
Materials and Methods: There are various methods for measuring atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration. Remote sensing technology, in particular, has emerged as a solution, overcoming the limitations of ground-based measurement methods by offering continuous monitoring and global coverage of greenhouse gases. Despite the absence of ground stations for monitoring greenhouse gases in the Middle East region, comprising 15 countries spanning 7,207,570 square kilometers, this study investigates the monthly, seasonal, and annual atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide using data from satellites such as SCIAMACHY, GOSAT, and OCO. The study period spans from 2003 to 2020.
Results and Discussion: The findings of this research indicate a significant increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration over the 18 years examined by all three satellites. From 2003 to 2011, as observed by SCIAMACHY, the average atmospheric concentration of this greenhouse gas rose from 375.22 ppm to 391.32 ppm, representing an annual average increase of 2.01 ppm. Subsequently, between 2010 and 2020, GOSAT data revealed an increase in CO2 concentration from 388.81 ppm to 411.55 ppm, with an average annual rise of 2.27 ppm. Moreover, from 2015 to 2020, the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide observed by the OCO-2 satellite rose from 399.73 ppm to 412.27 ppm, with an average growth rate of approximately 2.55 ppm. In addition to examining annual changes, this study also investigated seasonal and monthly variations in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration. The lowest concentrations of this greenhouse gas occurred during the summer months, particularly in August and September, while the highest concentrations were observed during the spring months, specifically in April and May. Furthermore, the analysis of differences in atmospheric carbon dioxide between seasons revealed the most significant changes from spring to summer, with an average decrease of 6 ppm. Conversely, the highest increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide between seasons were observed from summer to autumn, with a recorded average increase of approximately 4 ppm.
Conclusion: This research indicates a notable increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration in the Middle East region from 2003 to 2020, accompanied by seasonal and monthly fluctuations consistent with global trends of this greenhouse gas. This long-term rise in greenhouse gas levels can lead to various detrimental effects in the region, including temperature escalation, alterations in rainfall patterns, heightened drought severity, and damage to natural ecosystems. Consequently, the socio-economic stability of the region could be jeopardized, impacting agriculture, water resources, human health, and biodiversity. To effectively manage and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, immediate action is imperative at both national and international levels. Such measures may involve promoting renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, curbing industrial pollution, advancing emission reduction technologies, and fostering regional and international collaboration in greenhouse gas reduction efforts. Moreover, public awareness campaigns and policy interventions are essential to mobilize stakeholders and facilitate the transition to a low-carbon economy in the Middle East, ensuring sustainable development and climate resilience for future generations.