Causes and effects of the “Black Sky Regime” in Krasnoyarsk, Russia

Alina Terina

Bachelor's thesis

Abstract:

The thesis delves into a comprehensive analysis of the underlying causes behind the detrimental air pollution plaguing the city of Krasnoyarsk, Russia, as well as the profound impacts it has on the local inhabitants. The recurrent instances of severe air pollution within the city have garnered significant attention from the media, leading to the coining of the term "black sky regime." This regime is implemented by the government as a measure to tackle the excessive concentration of pollutants in the atmosphere, surpassing the permissible levels established by the governing authorities. The complex formation of this so-called regime is the result of a multitude of factors converging simultaneously. One of these factors is the city's heterogeneous geographical position, characterized by the presence of mountains encompassing both the southern and western regions of Krasnoyarsk. These physical barriers coupled with the dense urban infrastructure of a highly populated city hinder the natural flow of winds, impeding their ability to effectively disperse the pollutants. Notably, the city serves as a hub for various industrial facilities, including coal power plants, an aluminum plant, and several other factories. These entities contribute significantly to the deposition of PM particles, sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), benzopyrene, and formaldehyde, thus exacerbating the air pollution levels. Additionally, a substantial portion of emissions stems from the prevalent usage of automobiles, which serves as the primary means of transportation for a considerable number of residents within the city.Another factor is the climate in the southern region of Siberia,which is characterized by the presence of cold, snowy winters and hot, windless summers. These extreme weather conditions have significant implications for the region's environment and the health of its inhabitants. The harsh winters, with their freezing temperatures, create a heightened demand for coal power plants to provide much-needed warmth and energy. On the other hand, the scorching summers and intense sunlight act as a catalyst for chemical reactions in the atmosphere that lead to the formation of ozone, exacerbating the already polluted air.Moreover, the presence of dams along the Yenisei River plays a crucial role in shaping the local climate. These dams help maintain the river's unfrozen condition during winter, allowing it to retain a higher temperature compared to the surrounding air. As a consequence, the river undergoes evaporation, releasing small droplets of water into the atmosphere. However, this is not a benign process, as the atmosphere is already saturated with pollutants. The interaction between these water droplets and the pollutants leads to the formation of smog, a noxious haze that engulfs the city for a few days or weeks at a time.The occurrence of smog necessitates swift action from the government, leading to the implementation of stringent measures known as the "black sky regime." Under this regime, citizens are urged not to venture outside their homes, and factories are required to reduce their emissions significantly. These measures are essential for mitigating the adverse effects of smog on public health.The annual recurrence of the "black sky regime" has raised concerns about the long-term health implications for the citizens of Krasnoyarsk. The main pollutants responsible for the smog are not only harmful but also carcinogenic, posing a significant risk to human health. This realization prompted extensive researchs to investigate the health impact of prolonged exposure to these pollutants.The findings of these studies have been alarming. It has been determined that the number of people diagnosed with cancer in the region has been steadily increasing since 2006, exhibiting an average annual growth rate of 2.7%. This statistic underscores the urgency of addressing the underlying causes of the "black sky regime" and

Abstract:

its associated health risks.Furthermore, additional studies have revealed a surplus of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases within the population of Krasnoyarsk, further highlighting the detrimental consequences of prolonged exposure to the polluted air. Given the gravity of the situation, it is imperative to delve deeper into the intricacies of the "black sky regime" and identify all the underlying processes that contribute to its formation. This comprehensive understanding will enable the development of targeted strategies to mitigate the harmful effects on both the environment and human health. The ultimate aim of this thesis is to safeguard the well-being of the citizens and ensure a sustainable and healthy future for the city of Krasnoyarsk.

Keywords

air pollution, urban environment, health risks

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 30. 3. 2024

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 29. 5. 2024
• Supervisor: Mgr. Aleš Urban, Ph.D.
• Reader: Falak Naz

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Environmental Sciences

Bachelor programme:
Environmental Engineering