Ship emission estimation with high spatial-temporal resolution in the Yangtze River estuary using AIS data

A comprehensive analysis of ship emissions is a key step towards taking effective strategies to mitigate air pollution. Based on the AIS data, the objective of this study is to estimate ship emissions with high-resolution (0.001 degrees X 0.001 degrees) in the Yangtze River estuary using the STEAM model. Effects of ship types, operating modes, discharge equipment, time and location on ship emissions are also examined in this study. Results reveal that the annual ship emissions for CO2, CO, HC, NOx and SO2 in 2014 are 1.818 X 10(6) tons, 2.593 X 10(3) tons, 1.949 X 10(3) tons, 3.394 X 10(4) tons and 1.584 X 10(4) tons, respectively. Findings highlight that the majority of ship emissions are generated under the slow-steaming and normal cruising states. There exist strong temporal and spatial effects on ship emissions. Ship emissions are mainly distributed at the port areas, intersection areas and the north channel of the Yangtze River estuary. This study concludes with some future efforts and directions to mitigate ship emissions in this water area effectively (e.g., encouraging cargo ships to use the lower carbon fuels for propulsion, optimizing ship routes in the north channel and interactions of the Yangtze River estuary). (c) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.