SPATIO-TEMPORAL MONITORING OF STRATOSPERIC OZONE FOR BIG CITIES IN PAKISTAN AND ITS EFFECTS ON HUMANS AND CLIMATE

Abstract

Remote sensing and geographic information system (RS & GIS) are dominant techniques for understanding the spatial-temporal patterns of earth and its atmosphere. Pakistan does not fabricate any of the ozone depleting substances (ODSs) but stringent regulatory regime exists to check imports of these substances, with a system of licensing and quotas for import of HCFCs (Hydrochloro fluorocarbons) in place. The main consumer of HCFCs (about 75%) is manufacturing sector consisting of 36 industries located in Karachi and Lahore. Servicing sector uses about 25% of the total HCFCs consumption in Pakistan. The Global Positioning System (GPS) points of the industrial locations are taken and mapped with the help of RS (Remote sensing) and GIS (Geographical information system) techniques. A case study of mega city Lahore has been discussed for HCFCs emissions from manufacturing and wastage stages, from 2005 to 2013. During these stages, significant emissions of HCFC 141b have been observed increasing at rate of 7.11% (slope: 7331.2, y-intercept 103058 Kg) per year. Ozone could induce adverse impacts to human health. Cardiovascular disorders, fibrosis and damage to lungs are the swear problems faced due to long term exposure. Pakistan has been at the forefront in its endeavors to phase out ODSs. In Phase-I of the HCFC phase-out management plan (HPMP), Pakistan has successfully phased out 80 ozone depletion potential tons (ODPT) of HCFC 141b. Various alternatives have also been found to achieve performance better than HCFC 22. The R 744 is available for commercial sized systems. It is expected that the target will be achieved by the end of 2040 by implementing alternatives against HCFC 22.