Satellite Research Shows Reduced Weekend Pollution Boosts Plant Growth in Europe

Lorenzo Rosa's team at Carnegie Institute for Science used satellites to unveil a link between decreased weekend pollution and increased plant vitality in Europe.

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Their study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, highlights a 64% increase in Solar Induced Fluorescence (SIF) across Europe during weekends.

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Utilizing the TROPOMI instrument aboard the Copernicus Sentinel-5 Precursor satellite, the team mapped the impact of sunlight on European plant life.

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The study's innovative approach revealed that phases of photosynthesis emit fluorescence, detectable and measurable from space.

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Correlating photosynthetic activity with aerosol presence, the researchers found a direct relationship between industrial activity reduction and increased plant growth.

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Aerosol particles, predominantly released during weekdays, were identified as major inhibitors of photosynthesis.

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The study offers actionable insights for European policies aimed at capturing 500 megatons of carbon yearly.

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Rosa emphasizes that improving air quality is not only vital for ecological health but also aligns with broader climate goals.

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