Role of nitrous oxide in stratosphere ozone depletion

ROLE OF NITROUS OXIDE IN STRATOSPHERE OZONE DEPLETION 

The modem global pattern of nitrous oxide emission is shown in Table 4. If current trends in N2O emission continue, anthropogenic emissions could more than double during the 21 century. 

Based on various estimates, the Asian contribution to global N2O emission might be from 45 to 70%, i.e., from 8 to 12 million tons per year (ESCAP, 2000). 

Most N2O is destroyed in the higher atmosphere (stratosphere), although some uptake at the Earth s surface may take place. Of the N2O that reaches the stratosphere, about 90% are photolyzed 

Source 1990 N — N2O etnission. 10 tons per year Expected increase in 21 century, % 

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