GIS Analysis on PM_2.5 Pollution during Heating Period in Zibo

Objective To analyse the regional distribution of PM_2.5 pollution and assess the level of PM_2.5 in Zibo city during heating period to provide technical basis for decision-making on environmental protection and disease prevention.

Methods According to the information from Environmental Monitoring Center in Shandong Province, a descriptive spatial analysis based on GIS on the quality of urban air during heating period was conducted from November in 2013 to March in 2014.

Results The average and the highest concentration of PM_2.5 in heating period in Zibo City were 126 μg/m³ and 525 μg/m³, respectively, which were 1.68 and 7 times higher than the standard limit (75 μg/m³). The constitution of PM_2.5 as the primary pollutant accounted for 69.89% of air pollutants; and there was a trend of increasing PM_2.5 in the constitution of air pollutants with a degradation of ambient air quality. Both the average concentration of PM_2.5 and the constitution of PM_2.5 as the primary pollutant were higher in Zhoucun and Zhangdian districts.

Conclusions PM_2.5 pollution was more serious in Zibo urban area during heating period, and the focus areas were Zhoucun and Zhangdian district. PM_2.5 pollution and its potential health risks should be paid attention by relevant government departments.