From volcano to Arctic: researchers track sulfur dioxide' s 2,000-kilometer journey

A research team led by Prof. SI fuqi and Prof. LUO Yuhan from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, has uncovered surprising evidence of cross-border pollution reaching the Arctic, originating from an Icelandic volcanic eruption. The researchers used a cutting-edge combination of satellite and ground-based monitoring to track sulfur dioxide emissions from the Sundhnukagigar volcano, which erupted in 2023. This toxic gas traveled over 2,000 kilometers to reach the Svalbard Islands, causing severe smog in the region.

The relevant results were published in The Innovation Geoscience.

"Our study highlights the far-reaching impact of volcanic eruptions on the environment," explained WU Kaili, a member of the team, "It's far beyond the immediate vicinity."

Volcanic eruptions act like "chemical spray bombs," spewing millions of tons of gases like sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. These gases can transform into sulfate particles that contribute to acid rain and reflect sunlight, potentially causing global cooling. But fine volcanic ash particles, less than 2.5 microns in diameter, can penetrate deep into the lungs and trigger respiratory problems in humans.

The research team relied on advanced tools like the Environmental Trace Gases Monitoring Instrument, which is installed on two Chinese satellites. These satellites provide global daily scans, tracking pollutants with impressive precision. In addition to satellite data, the team also used measurements from China' s Yellow River Station in the Arctic, the only continuous atmospheric monitoring station in the region. This station tracks gases like sulfur dioxide, ozone, and bromine oxide, offering invaluable vertical profile data.

Their findings were striking: 80% of the sulfur dioxide pollution in Ny-Ålesund, a remote Arctic region, was traced directly to the volcanic eruption in Iceland. By combining satellite observation with ground-based measurements, the researchers created a detailed map of how the pollution traveled, providing insights into the source and impact of the eruption' s emissions.

The work paves the way for more precise, real-time environmental monitoring and response, protecting ecosystems and human health worldwide, according to the team.