Desarrollo de una metodología para identificar zonas de potencial acumulación de emisiones en la ciudad de Quito

Abstract

In this paper, a methodology is developed to determine potential emission accumulation zones in Quito. It is based on the characterization of wind flows. The data of the environmental parameters are generated daily with the Model WRF-NMM. It is operated by MODEMAT EPN. This study is focused on air flows. This doesn’t consider generation, emission, or chemical reactions that pollutants can produce. The air flow is an important parameter for the transport and dispersion of pollutants. To the methodology, the domain of study is delimited to the Quito canton. It is divided into zones of flows with similar wind characteristics. A mass flow balance is performed in the zones for every hour in a period of five months. Finally with a statical analysis, each zone is classified according to its potentiality and possible residence times are determined. The methodology identify as potential emission accumulation zones to Quito city, from the Labrador Terminal in the north to Guamaní in the south, and parishes such as Pifo, La Merced, Puembo, Tababela, Yaruquí, Checa, El Quinche, Guayllabamba, Itchimbía, Mariscal Sucre, Jipijapa, Tumbaco, Cumbayá, Nayón and others. A limitation may be the model resolution. It doesn’t guarantee a correct geographic coverage. However, it allows this important preliminary evaluation.