A biogenic volatile organic compound emission inventory for Hong Kong

Biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) in the atmosphere react to form ozone and secondary organic aerosols, which deteriorate air quality, affect human health, and indirectly influence global climate changes. The present study aims to provide a preliminary assessment of BVOC emissions in Hong Kong (HKSAR). Thriteen local tree species were measured for their isoprene emission potential. Tree distribution was estimated for country park areas based on field survey data. Plant emission data obtained from measurements and the literature, tree distribution estimation data, land use information, and meteorological data were combined to estimate annual BVOC emissions of 8.6×10 9 g C for Hong Kong. Isoprene, monoterpenes, and other VOCs contributed about 30%, 40%, and 30% of the estimated total annual emissions, respectively. Although hundreds of plant species are found in Hong Kong country parks, the model results indicate that only 10 tree species contribute about 76% of total annual VOC emissions. Prominent seasonal and diurnal variations in emissions were also predicted by the model. The present study lays a solid foundation for future local research, and results can be applied for studying BVOC emissions in nearby southern China and Asian regions that share similar climate and plant distributions. © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.link_to_subscribed_fulltex

Interactive large-class learning: there's an app for that!

Conference Theme: From Classroom to Clinic: Opportunities and Challenges in e-Learnin

A biogenic volatile organic compound emission inventory for Hong Kong

Biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) in the atmosphere react to form ozone and secondary organic aerosols, which deteriorate air quality, affect human health, and indirectly influence global climate changes. The present study aims to provide a preliminary assessment of BVOC emissions in Hong Kong (HKSAR). Thriteen local tree species were measured for their isoprene emission potential. Tree distribution was estimated for country park areas based on field survey data. Plant emission data obtained from measurements and the literature, tree distribution estimation data, land use information, and meteorological data were combined to estimate annual BVOC emissions of 8.6×109 g C for Hong Kong. Isoprene, monoterpenes, and other VOCs contributed about 30%, 40%, and 30% of the estimated total annual emissions, respectively. Although hundreds of plant species are found in Hong Kong country parks, the model results indicate that only 10 tree species contribute about 76% of total annual VOC emissions. Prominent seasonal and diurnal variations in emissions were also predicted by the model. The present study lays a solid foundation for future local research, and results can be applied for studying BVOC emissions in nearby southern China and Asian regions that share similar climate and plant distributions. © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved

Like oil and water? Mixed-discipline small group learning in a common core course: perceptions of medical students and their non-medical peers

Conference Theme: From Classroom to Clinic: Opportunities and Challenges in e-Learnin

Effects of urban vegetation on urban air quality

Review articleVegetation has been well recognized for its ability in improving air quality and alleviating global warming. Tree planting has been used to mitigate urban heat island phenomena, sequester carbon dioxide, and help to trap air pollutants on leaves. Because some plant species emit biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs), planting of some cultivars increase ozone and particulate matter ambient concentration and hence deteriorate air quality. Moreover, pollen grains and fungal spores from plants are health hazards for allergic or other sensitive members of the population. This paper reviews benefits and limited hazards of urban vegetation on air quality, highlighting useful computer simulations for predicting some of the interaction between urban forestry and the ambient atmosphere. To maximize the beneficial environmental effects of urban forestry, careful design, planning, and cost-benefit analysis would be required. © 2011 Landscape Research Group Ltd.link_to_subscribed_fulltex