The Impact of Road Transport on CO2 Atmospheric Concentrations in Gaza City (Palestine), and Urban Vegetation as a Mitigation Measure

Abstract

Although traffic-borne pollution has been increasing recently in Gaza City (GC), no studies have tackled the issue in a quantitative manner. This study investigated quantitatively the atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) concentrations in three heavily-trafficked streets (sites X, Y, and Z) in GC, using a locally manufactured device. Measurements were performed during a weekday and a weekend in three specific times, including two rush hours. Green-cover was investigated using the top-down approach for photo interpretation in the selected sites. Furthermore, the awareness of the local population toward greening their streets was tested using two questionnaires. Measured atmospheric CO 2 concentrations ranged between 300 ppm and 900 ppm in all selected sites. Atmospheric CO 2 concentrations were highest in site X and lowest in Y. Green-cover percentage was found to be 2%, 3%, and 8% for sites X, Y, and Z, respectively. Generally, higher levels were detected during the working day compared to those detected during the weekend. Additionally, high atmospheric CO 2 concentrations were detected in streets with reduced green-cover as well as streets with workshops flanked on both sides. The questionnaires' analysis illustrated sound awareness among respondents regarding the researched aspect.

Replacing Diesel Buses with Electric Buses for Sustainable Public Transportation and Reduction of CO₂ Emissions

“…Urban traffic is estimated to generate up to 40% of CO 2 emissions and up to 70% of other pollutant emissions [2,6]. Around the world, approximately 3.7 million people in a billion die prematurely annually due to atmospheric pollution [7]. Cardiovascular, pulmonary, and cognitive diseases can be aggravated by the air-polluting emissions from the atmosphere.…”

Distribution of CO2 Concentration and Its Spatial Influencing Indices in Urban Park Green Space

“…For example, in the season of high traffic flow, the main driving factor of CO 2 concentration change is traffic emission. However, when the commuting rate decreases, the CO 2 absorbed by urban vegetation can offset anthropogenic CO 2 emissions such as traffic and human respiration [19][20][21][22][23].…”

Assessing Environmental Benefits from Investment in Railway Infrastructure

“…Low-carbon transport is a priority in addressing the growing global problem of climate change [5][6]. Transport is still almost entirely dependent on fossil fuels (96%) and accounts for almost 60% of global oil consumption [7].…”