Significant concurrent decrease in PM_(2.5) and NO_(2) concentrations in China during COVID-19 epidemic

摘要

The strict control measures and social lockdowns initiated to combat COVID-19 epidemic have had a notable impact on air pollutant concentrations.According to observation data obtained from the China National Environmental Monitoring Center,compared to levels in 2019,the average concentration of NO_(2) in early 2020 during COVID-19 epidemic has decreased by 53%,50%,and 30%in Wuhan city,Hubei Province(Wuhan excluded),and China(Hubei excluded),respectively.Simultaneously,PM_(2.5) concentration has decreased by 35%,29%,and 19%in Wuhan,Hubei(Wuhan excluded),and China(Hubei excluded),respectively.Less significant declines have also been found for SO_(2) and CO concentrations.We also analyzed the temporal variation and spatial distribution of air pollutant concentrations in China during COVID-19 epidemic.The decreases in PM_(2.5) and NO_(2) concentrations showed relatively consistent temporal variation and spatial distribution.These results support control of NO x to further reduce PM_(2.5) pollution in China.The concurrent decrease in NOx and PM_(2.5) concentrations resulted in an increase of O3 concentrations across China during COVID-19 epidemic,indicating that coordinated control of other pollutants is needed.