Exploiting potentials from interdisciplinary perspectives with reference to global atmosphere and biomass burning management

Abstract

Biomass burning emitted aerosols are subject of concern in different disciplinary researches from different perspectives (climate change science from shift of balance in radiative forcing having severe repercussions on global ecosystem, while air pollution science from public health concern). By exploring particle number emission factors (PNEF), particle size distributions, and volatility of emitted ultra fine particles from burning rice straw, potential annual release of aerosols from rice straw combustion to the global atmosphere is estimated, and the issue of their management from such interdisciplinary perspectives is discussed. Between an estimated as low as 15% and as high as 75% of rice straw being burnt globally, the global annual estimate of emitted aerosols mounted from an order of 1021 particles/yr to the order of 10 22 particles/yr. From looking at different estimates made therein, we advocate D p ≤ 0.25 μm (PN 0.25 equivalent) for adopting emission control standards. In volatility analysis flaming combustion and open burning indicated internal mixing of black carbon and organic carbon in emitted ultra fine particles, while smoldering combustion emitted ultra fine particles having little black carbon component. Up to 65% contrast in remaining volume in volatility analysis between the flaming and smoldering combustions, and positioning of open burning in between them, give us the idea of potential management of such biomass burning with controllable distinct choices. Therefore, the concept of exploiting potential from interdisciplinary dimensions is coined to enable more efficient management with least amounts of additional resources utilized, by resolving complexities through mutual cooperation of concerned disciplinary researches. It also shows a new avenue in our affairs in managing global atmosphere for the global ecosystem and public health. © Taiwan Association for Aerosol Research.