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Project Code [2012-CCRP-MS.8]

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Project title

Ammonia2�Baseline Ammonia Deposition Rates in Ireland and Local impacts of Point Source Emissions

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University College Dublin (UCD)

Lead Applicant

Thomas Cummins

Project Abstract

Elevated emissions of nitrogen (N), such as ammonia (NH3), have lead to concerns that chronic elevated N deposition may result in long-term negative impacts on natural ecosystems. Emission reduction policies have targeted industrial and transportation sectors, legislating emission controls on nitrogen oxides, while NH3 emissions remain unchanged. Previous studies have suggested that NH3 is the dominant component of N deposition in Ireland; however, there is limited monitoring data. This research will measure ambient atmospheric ammonia concentrations for Ireland, using a network of sites distant from major point-emission sources, for one year. The monitoring replicates a network operated during 1999, using the �Willems-badge� passive-diffusive samplers. These are suitable for Irish conditions: high windspeeds, long exposures, and widely variable ambient ammonia concentrations. Short-term intensive transect-monitoring will be undertaken between known ammonia-emission point-sources and nearby sensitive receptor-ecosystems. Passive-samplers will be combined with assessment of biotic responses to chronic ammonia exposure at these sites. Following these monitoring campaigns, and given availability of improved spatial datasets for precipitation deposition of reduced nitrogen, landcover, and ammonia deposition factors, updated maps will be produced of Ireland�s reduced-N deposition. The results of the network-, transect-, and deposition assessments will inform recommendations for future optimized national monitoring for Ireland.

Grant Approved

�107,278.24

Research Hub

Climate Change

Research Theme

Trans-Boundary Air Pollution/Short Life Climate Forcers

Start Date

01/01/2013

Initial Projected Completion Date

31/12/2014