Effect of restricted emissions during Covid-19 lockdown on air quality in Rabat - Morocco

During the COVID-19 lockdown in Rabat, Morocco, air quality significantly improved due to restricted human activities. Concentrations of nitrogen monoxide (NO) dropped by up to 94%, nitrogen dioxide (NO2) by up to 51%, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) by up to 45%, and coarse particulate matter (PM10) by up to 53% compared to pre-lockdown levels. Satellite observations from TROPOMI on Sentinel-5P confirmed unprecedented NO2 reductions of up to 60%. However, ozone (O3) concentrations increased by approximately 20%, likely due to reduced nitrogen oxides and fine particles that normally scavenge HO2 radicals, leading to greater O3 production. This study highlights the dramatic impact of emission restrictions on urban air quality and provides insights into atmospheric chemical processes.

(Ed.). (2020). Effect of restricted emissions during Covid-19 lockdown on air quality in Rabat - Morocco. Global NEST: The International Journal. https://doi.org/10.30955/gnj.003431