päästöarviosta

Päästöarvio, in English emission inventory, is a systematic compilation of data on the quantities of pollutants released into the atmosphere over a specific period. These inventories are crucial for understanding air quality, tracking pollution trends, and developing effective environmental policies. They typically cover emissions from various sources, including industrial activities, transportation, energy production, and residential heating.

The process of creating a päästöarvio involves collecting data on fuel consumption, industrial processes, and other relevant activities. This data is then combined with emission factors, which represent the amount of pollutant released per unit of activity. Different methodologies and models are used depending on the pollutant and the scale of the inventory, which can range from local to national or even global.

Key pollutants often included in päästöarviot are greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), as well as air pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The accuracy and completeness of a päästöarvio are vital for their intended use, as they form the basis for risk assessments, regulatory compliance, and international climate agreements. Regular updates and revisions are common to reflect changes in emissions and improve methodologies.