A Chinese research team used satellite and ground tools to track sulfur dioxide produced by the 2023 eruption of Iceland's Sonnukajjar volcano, which traveled more than 2,000 kilometers before reaching the Arctic and causing severe haze in Svalbard. Their results show that 80% of the sulfur dioxide pollution in the Ny-Alesund region came from the eruption, highlighting the global impact of volcanic emissions and their health risks.
A research team led by Professor Si Fuqi and Professor Luo Yuhan from the Hefei Institute of Physical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, found conclusive evidence that cross-border air pollution reaches the Arctic.
Their findings traced the contamination to the 2023 eruption of Iceland's Sonnukajjar volcano. By combining advanced satellite observations and ground-based monitoring, the team tracked sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions as they traveled more than 2,000 kilometers (1,250 miles) to Svalbard. These emissions contribute to severe haze in the Arctic.
The research was published in Innovative Geosciences.
"Our study highlights the profound environmental impact of volcanic eruptions," explained team member Kelly Wu. "Its effects extend far beyond nearby areas."
Impact of Icelandic volcanic eruptions on the Arctic based on satellite, ground observations and PSCF analysis. Image source: Kaili Wu
Volcanic eruptions act like "chemical spray bombs," spewing millions of tons of gases such as sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. These gases convert into sulfate particles that form acid rain and reflect sunlight, potentially contributing to global cooling. However, small volcanic ash particles with a diameter of less than 2.5 microns can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory diseases in humans.
The research team relied on advanced tools such as environmental trace gas monitors installed on two Chinese satellites. These satellites provide daily scans of the globe, tracking contaminants with stunning accuracy. In addition to satellite data, the team also used measurements from China's Arctic Yellow River Station, the only continuous atmospheric monitoring station in the region. The station tracks gases such as sulfur dioxide, ozone and bromine oxide, providing valuable vertical profile data.
What they found was shocking: 80% of the sulfur dioxide pollution in the remote Arctic region of Ny-Alesund originated directly from the Icelandic volcanic eruption. By combining satellite observations and ground-based measurements, researchers have created a detailed map of the spread of pollution, providing clues about the origins of volcanic eruption emissions and their impacts.
The research team said this work paves the way for more precise, real-time environmental monitoring and response, protecting global ecosystems and human health.
Compiled from /ScitechDaily