Estimation of the impact of biomass burning based on regional transport of PM2.5 in the Colombian Caribbean

Deterioration of air quality due to the increase in atmospheric emissions from biomass burning (BB) is one major environmental problems worldwide. In this study, we estimated contributions BB PM 2.5 concentrations municipalities Soledad and Malambo located Colombian Caribbean. The evaluation period ranged February 24 March 30, 2018, a with high number events recorded surroundings evaluated sites. contribution two sampling sites was using Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) dispersion model forwarding trajectories each points identified by satellite images ( n = 1089). were determined fire radiative power (FRP), obtained remote-sensing data, corresponded radiant energy released per time unit vegetation. average during 19.91 μg/m 3 for 22.44 Malambo. these 22.8% 28.8%, respectively. methodology used study allowed estimate important source without knowledge previous tracer BB, thereby increasing use proposed procedure This information would enable implementation effective mitigation, diminishing adverse impact on health population. • determined. influence Caribbean evaluated. HYSPLIT forward used. Biomass contributed 20%–30% levels. can be places little or no information.