Modelling of Particle Matter Pollution in 2021 Autumn in Kosovo Region of Konya Province, Turkey

Abstract

Urban growth and energy consumption are directly related to air pollution; the growth in the number of vehicles and traffic on the avenues is the main cause of air deterioration. Energy consumption has a negative impact on the air, mainly in winter, where heaters are used more intensely. Likewise, air pollution can travel to places where there are no polluting sources. This global character has brought to the discussion the creation of global policies to combat pollution and find those who are responsible for its remediation. Particulate matter is part of the atmospheric pollutants and receives special attention due to its physical and chemical characteristics; they are liquid or solid, organic, or inorganic compounds that can have different shapes and be suspended in the air or not depending on their mass. From a medical point of view, particulate matter can cause health problems, primarily affecting the respiratory and circulatory systems. The objective of this study was to determine the level of pollution and distribution of particulate matter generated by vehicles and heating systems in the Selçuklu district of the city of Konya city. In the analysis PM concentration was performed at 11 temporary monitoring stations. Measurements were taken 5 times a day in 2 winter and summer periods of the year during the October month. The measurement data was modelled using Surf to generate maps of the distribution of particulate matter in the evaluation months. The results of the study show that the levels of particulate matter vary during the day. A high concentration is observed at 6 am and at 5 pm. Levels are reduced during that morning and afternoon interval. This phenomenon occurs due to the high circulation of vehicles. At a seasonal level, during the winter higher levels of concentration of particulate matter are recorded. The points with the highest level of concentration are in the east of the study area. In general, according to the air quality index, the air quality of the study area does not represent any risk to people's health. In the study it is recommended to carry out a scope to determine the nature of the PM pollution and their sources of origin.