Methods

This data set provides annual estimates of anthropogenic global and regional sulfur dioxide emissions spanning the period 1850–2005 using a bottom-up mass balance method, calibrated to country-level inventory data. Emissions by source category (coal, petroleum, and biomass combustion, smelting, fuel processing, and other processes) are available for 142 countries and regions. For the purpose of viewing the data pattern and changes, the maps of total emissions in 1970–2005 are also provided for online view and download in the archive.

For more information on methods, users may wish to consult these publications:

Smith, Steven J., J. van Aardenne, Z. Klimont, R. J. Andres, A. Volke, and S. Delgado Arias. (2011). Anthropogenic Sulfur Dioxide Emissions: 1850–2005, Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, 11:1101–1116.

Smith, Steven J., J. van Aardenne, Z. Klimont, R. J. Andres, A. Volke, and S. Delgado Arias. (2011). Anthropogenic Sulfur Dioxide Emissions: 1850–2005. Supplementary Material.

Smith, Steven J., E. Conception, R. Andres, and J. Lurz. (2004). Historical Sulfur Dioxide Emissions, 1850-2000: Methods and Results. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Report, PNNL–14537.

Smith, Steven J., H. Pitcher, and T.M.L. Wigley. (2001). Global and regional anthropogenic sulfur dioxide emissions, Global and Planetary Change 29:Z2001. 99-119.