Insights From the Last Year’s Atmospheric CO₂ Measurements in the Urban Atmosphere and the Natural Ecosystem in Southern Poland

Abstract

This article aims to compare the molar fraction of atmospheric CO₂ measured in southern Poland, specifically in Gliwice (an urban area), Kraków (an urban area), and Kasprowy Wierch (a mountain environment) from August 2022 to March 2023. The study examines diurnal, monthly and seasonal variations in the molar fraction of CO₂. Monthly and diurnal average CO₂ air mole fraction data are reported for Gliwice, Kraków, and Kasprowy Wierch during the specified period. The results reveal greater fluctuations in CO₂ amplitude in urban areas compared to the mountain environment. Significant differences in diurnal, nocturnal, monthly and seasonal variabilities of atmospheric CO₂ are observed in the urban sites. The findings suggest that the biosphere may act as a dominant source of local CO₂ in summer and fall, while other local or regional anthropogenic sources could impact CO₂ levels during winter and early spring, prior to the vegetation period. Additionally, this paper discusses challenges encountered during the use of a low-cost system (CARBOCAP GMP-343) for measuring CO₂ levels in the urban area of Gliwice in 2022.