Air mercury monitoring in the Baikal area: sources, long-term and short-term variations

Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake, has become a critical site for air mercury monitoring. It offers valuable insights into regional and global environmental changes.

During this presentation, researchers presented a decade-long dataset (2011–2021) collected from the Listvyanka monitoring station on the lake’s shore. Along with findings from a comprehensive air mercury survey covering 1,800 kilometers above Lake Baikal.

Mercury monitoring at Lake Baikal

The Listvyanka station, part of the Global Mercury Observation System (GMOS), provides unique data on mercury concentrations in an area far removed from other monitoring sites in Asia.

Using advanced tools such as the Lumex RA-915M air mercury monitor, researchers have tracked gaseous elemental mercury (GEM) and particulate-bound mercury (PBM) levels continuously.

The study revealed clear seasonal variations in GEM concentrations. There were higher levels during colder months (November to February) and lower levels in warmer months (June to September).

These patterns align with increased mercury emissions from coal combustion during winter.

PBM measurements, conducted since 2016, show similar seasonal trends, with particulate mercury accounting for approximately 0.7% of total GEM concentrations.

Influence of local and regional factors

Short-term anomalies in mercury concentrations - spanning minutes to hours - were linked to coal combustion emissions and forest fires.

Analysis of air mass trajectories identified industrial regions along the Angara River Valley and areas in Mongolia as key sources of mercury emissions affecting Lake Baikal.

Interestingly, mercury concentrations above the lake were significantly lower than those recorded at the Listvyanka station.

This phenomenon is attributed to unique air circulation patterns over the lake during summer. This may allow Lake Baikal to act as a temporary sink for atmospheric mercury.

Findings from the Lake Baikal voyage

In July 2018, researchers conducted an extensive air mercury survey aboard the research vessel Akademik Koptyug.

Spanning 1,800 kilometers, this survey confirmed the absence of significant mercury anomalies above the lake. This further highlights the contrast between onshore and overwater mercury levels.

The data also supported conclusions from stationary monitoring, pinpointing industrial and mining activities as primary sources of regional mercury emissions.

Environmental implications and future research

The findings underscore the impact of human activities; particularly coal combustion and industrial processes, on mercury pollution in the Lake Baikal region.

Seasonal and short-term variations in mercury levels highlight the need for continued monitoring and improved mitigation strategies.

The decade-long dataset offers a vital benchmark for understanding mercury dynamics in remote ecosystems. It provides a foundation for future studies on mercury’s role in global environmental health.

Watch the presentation for more insights

To explore these findings in greater depth, including the methodologies and technologies used, watch the full presentation on demand.

Gain a deeper understanding of mercury monitoring at Lake Baikal and its implications for environmental science and policy.

This session is a must-watch for researchers, policymakers, and environmental professionals seeking to address the challenges of mercury pollution.

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