Assessing the environmental impact of offshore flares in the Persian Gulf: A comprehensive analysis of SO2 emissions

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Science and Biotechnology, Faculty of Nano and Bio Science and Technology, Persian Gulf University, Bushehr 75169-13798, Iran

2 Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Engineering, School of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Shiraz 71441-13131, Iran

3 Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan 49189-43464, Iran

Abstract

Flares are recognized as significant environmental risks that impact ecosystems. This research aims to analyze the impact of flares on ecosystem pollution and human health in the Persian Gulf. Specifically, it focused on modeling sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from an offshore flare at the South Pars gas platform using AERMOD software for accurate analysis. For this purpose, the amount of SO2 gas emissions in the first six months of 2022 was obtained based on field measurements. Subsequently, the distribution of these pollutants was investigated using the AERMOD distribution model in an area of 10 x10 km2 in both the X and Y directions, considering time averages of 1, 3, and 24 hours. To assess the accuracy of the model's outputs, these values were compared with the results of field measurements at six separate receptors. The findings revealed that the maximum concentration of SO2 emissions during a 1-hour period was 1.73 µg/m³, primarily localized in the vicinity of the flare. The AERMOD software confirmed the significant influence of wind direction on SO2 emissions, with pollution dispersing up to 4.5 km from the emission center in the northwest to east direction within the first hour. Importantly, the investigation demonstrated that the pollutant emission levels from the flare remained well below the standards established by Iranian and American environmental organizations. Consequently, the activity of the studied flare poses no immediate danger to workers, residents, or ecosystems in the Persian Gulf. Statistical analysis illustrated a significant correlation between the model and field results (r = 0.943, Sig. = 99%), indicating the accuracy and robustness of the used model for estimation. In conclusion, the results provide a comprehensive framework for assessing air pollution stemming from flares to mitigate their deleterious effects on ecosystems.

Graphical Abstract

Assessing the environmental impact of offshore flares in the Persian Gulf: A comprehensive analysis of SO2 emissions

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References

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Advances in Environmental Technology
Volume 11, Issue 1
January 2025
Pages 63-74

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History

  • Receive Date: 22 September 2023
  • Revise Date: 26 November 2024
  • Accept Date: 03 December 2024

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