Research Advances in Atmospheric Particulate Matter and Carbon Component Pollution Levels in Major Cities of China

This article comprehensively summarizes the data of fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) and inhalable particulate matter (PM₁₀) pollution in major cities of China from 2007 to 2018 and analyzes the interannual, seasonal, and spatial variations of atmospheric particulate matter (PM), loaded organic carbon (OC), and elemental carbon (EC). It is found that the concentrations of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ showed the similar changes in year, season, and space scale in major cities of China. The concentration of atmospheric PM was low before 2010 and then gradually increased year by year, and since the implementation of a series of policies including China's Action Plan on Prevention and Control of Air Pollution, the concentration of PM has gradually decreased year by year. Due to climate change and human activities, the concentration of atmospheric PM in autumn and winter was higher than that in spring and summer, and due to different geographical conditions, the concentration of atmospheric PM in northern cities was generally higher than that in southern cities. Meanwhile, the changing trend of OC and EC concentrations was generally consistent with that of PM_2.5 in major cities of China. Although certain improvement has been made in PM pollution in major cities of China, the situation is still grim. It is necessary to further reduce atmospheric emissions, and establish policies and technical regulations, so as to reduce the harm of air pollution to human health.