A Comparative Review of PM Levels, Sources, and Their Likely Fates in the Eastern Mediterranean Region

Abstract

This review highlights measurements from a number of studies investigating levels, origins, chemical processes, and health implications of particulate matters (PMs) in the Eastern Mediterranean region. In this region, assessment of PMs is still scarce although several studies from other countries related PMs with cardiovascular and respiratory problems. Field and modeling studies in the Eastern Mediterranean region have shown that PM levels affected by local sources including dust resuspension, industrial activities, marine aerosols, and seasonal dust storms originating from the Arabian and the Saharan deserts. In autumn and spring natural dust increases the levels of crustal and other elements and organic compounds that are adsorbed on dust surfaces. In summer, pollutants are trapped due to land and sea breezes. Hence, the influence of marine aerosols on the levels of inorganic ions in the coarse and fine particles is noticeable. Given the importance of PM chemical composition and particle size distribution on understanding global atmospheric phenomena, it is essential that particle mass closure in this semi-arid region be comprehensively evaluated.