Ammonia and amines emissions from residential biomass combustion in China from 2014 to 2030

Abstract

Residential biomass combustion has been widely recognized as an important source of ammonia (NH₃) and organic amines in the atmosphere, while not being fully understood at this stage. This study developed the first emission inventory of gaseous organic amine and ammonia emissions from residential biomass combustion in China from 2014 to 2019, and the future trends up to 2030 were further projected by using the ARIMA model. It was found that biomass burning remains a significant source of NH₃ and amines with significant regional disparities. Southwestern and central regions exhibited higher emissions, while economically developed eastern provinces showed lower emissions. Overall, the emissions and emission densities of organic amines and NH₃ have declined from 2014 to 2019 (from 8.74 and 213.60 to 4.47 and 109.90 kt, respectively), primarily due to the residential energy transition toward clean energy and a decrease in rural population. The simulation of emissions from 2020 to 2030 also showed the same downward trend. Nevertheless, regions such as Southwest China, which remain heavily dependent on biomass use, continue to experience relatively high emissions. This study highlights the need for targeted emission reduction strategies, especially in regions where clean energy adoption lags. The findings provide a scientific basis for future policy interventions aimed at mitigating emissions from biomass combustion in rural China.