-
- A41A-04: Effects of irrigation on weather extremes, air pollution and their interactions in China: A triple-edged sword for climate, health and food security
-
NOLA CC
Author(s):Generic 'disconnected' Message
Amos Tai, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (First Author, Presenting Author)
Tiangang Yuan, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Jin Wu, The University of Hong Kong
Jianfeng Li, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Sien Li, China Agricultural University
Tzung-May Fu, Southern University of Science and Technology
Irrigation is essential for growing food, but it also affects weather, climate, and air quality in complex ways. In this study, we explore how large-scale irrigation in China – especially in the North China Plain, one of the most heavily irrigated and heat-prone regions in the world – has influenced heatwaves and air pollution over recent decades, and what this might mean for the future. We find that irrigation has helped cool daytime temperatures in spring and reduce extreme heat in the past, but this cooling effect has weakened due to the adoption of water-saving methods and changes in climate. While irrigation continues to ease heatwaves under moderate climate change, its benefits decline under high-emission scenarios. At the same time, irrigation improves air quality by lowering ozone levels, thanks to cooler and wetter conditions associated with reduced heat extremes. However, it also worsens fine particle pollution due to increased humidity and reduced air mixing. These findings show that irrigation is a “triple-edged sword” – supporting food production, reducing heat stress, and cutting ozone, but worsening particulate matter pollution. Future policies must take an integrated approach that balances water conservation, air quality, climate resilience, and food security in a changing world.
Scientific DisciplineSuggested ItinerariesNeighborhoodType
Enter Note
Go to previous page in this tab
Session
