Comparison of Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds (BVOCs) Emissions in Northern Iran and Yazd Province Using the MEGAN Model

10.22034/jmas.2026.558437.1254

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 22 July 2026

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Kish International Campus, University of Tehran, Kish, Iran

2 Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

3 Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Iran

4 Department of Environmental Design Engineering, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract
Biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) are naturally emitted substances that play a significant role in atmospheric photochemical reactions, contributing to the formation of pollutants such as ozone and secondary particulate matter. Understanding the emission rates of these compounds under varying climatic conditions—particularly in regions with diverse vegetation cover—is crucial for evaluating their impact on air quality. This study aimed to compare the emission of isoprene (ISOP), one of the most significant BVOCs, in two climatically distinct regions of Iran: the humid north and the arid province of Yazd. The MEGAN model was used to estimate emissions, incorporating summer data for leaf area index (LAI), air temperature, solar radiation, and vegetation types. The results showed that in northern Iran, due to denser vegetation, a higher abundance of broadleaf species, and a milder climate, the average isoprene emission rate was 8 to 10 times higher than that of Yazd Province. Additionally, monoterpene emissions in the northern region were 5 to 8 times greater than in Yazd. These findings highlight the direct influence of meteorological factors and vegetation structure on BVOC emissions and emphasize the importance of their consideration in the environmental management of urban green spaces and air pollution control policies.

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